Description
Classic French Butter Cookies, known as Sablés Breton, featuring a rich, buttery, and tender texture with a hint of vanilla. These crisp yet crumbly cookies are perfect for tea time, dessert platters, or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy in texture. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie.
- Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Beat in the two large egg yolks and vanilla extract until fully combined, ensuring the dough is smooth and cohesive.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, gently mixing until the dough just comes together without overworking it to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough evenly into two disks, wrap each tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough for easier handling and better texture.
- Roll and Cut the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes and place them spaced evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their delicate crumb.
- Cool: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly and maintain crispness.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming with sugar.
- Do not overwork the dough when adding flour to avoid tough cookies.
- The dough can be refrigerated overnight for convenience and improved flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For added flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
