French Butter Cookies

Name: French Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightfully rich and buttery, these French Butter Cookies are a classic treat that melts in your mouth.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:25:54.386Z

French Butter Cookies are a timeless classic that bring a taste of France to your kitchen. Their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture make them perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving them at a tea party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee. These cookies are not only easy to make but also a delight to eat!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich buttery flavor that is irresistible
Perfectly crisp edges with a soft center
Ideal for gifting or enjoying with friends

      

The Art of French Baking

French baking is renowned for its precision and attention to detail, and these French Butter Cookies exemplify that tradition beautifully. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that captures the essence of French pastry craftsmanship. Each cookie is a testament to the rich culinary history of France, where butter is the star ingredient, elevating the flavor and texture to new heights.

To truly master these cookies, it's important to understand the role of each ingredient. The unsalted butter provides richness and depth, while the sugar contributes sweetness and helps achieve that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality. When combined with the right technique, these elements come together to create a cookie that is both simple and sophisticated.

Perfect Pairings

These French Butter Cookies are not just delicious on their own; they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Enjoy them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or serve them alongside a glass of milk for a nostalgic dessert experience. For a more sophisticated option, try them with a glass of dessert wine or a warm cup of tea.

Additionally, consider using these cookies as a base for creative desserts. Crumble them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added crunch, or layer them with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant parfait. The versatility of these cookies makes them a perfect addition to any dessert table.

Storing and Gifting Tips

Storing your French Butter Cookies properly ensures that they maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they will last for up to three months in the freezer.

These cookies also make for a lovely gift. Pack them in a decorative tin or a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for a charming presentation. Including a handwritten recipe card can add a personal touch, making your gift even more special. Whether for holidays, birthdays, or just because, homemade cookies are always a hit!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients for a delicious cookie dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.

Enjoy your homemade French Butter Cookies!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture in your French Butter Cookies, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. This allows for the right amount of air to be incorporated when creaming the butter and sugar together. If your butter is too cold, it won’t mix well, and if it’s too warm, the cookies may spread too much during baking.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps keep the cookies tender and prevents them from becoming tough. It's okay if there are a few small streaks of flour remaining; they will incorporate during shaping and baking.

Variations to Try

While the classic French Butter Cookie is delightful on its own, feel free to experiment with flavors! Adding a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest can give your cookies an added dimension of flavor. For a chocolate twist, fold in some mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, decadent variation.

You can also try rolling the cookie dough in sprinkles or coarse sugar before baking for an extra festive touch. This not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful crunch to the cookies. With these variations, you can personalize your French Butter Cookies to suit any occasion or preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid excess saltiness.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I add to the cookies for extra flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for a delicious twist!