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Classic French Salted Butter Cookies (Sablés)

A stack of golden french salted butter cookies sprinkled with coarse sugar crystals on a white plate.

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Make buttery, crispy French salted butter cookies that melt in your mouth. This straightforward recipe uses high-quality butter for an elegant, classic result perfect for tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) high-quality salted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (if using unsalted butter)
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened salted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
  2. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined.
  3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Shape the dough into a thick disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  7. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches) to cut out shapes. Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Sprinkle the tops of the cookies lightly with flaky sea salt.
  9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should remain pale.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use French-style salted butter if available; its higher fat content improves texture and flavor.
  • For a crispier cookie, bake for an extra minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce the baking time by one minute.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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