French Butter Cookies Recipe
Classic French Butter Cookies are delicate, buttery treats with a crisp texture and subtle sweetness. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and egg yolks, these cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or gifting.
- Author: Luna
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Egg Yolks: Add the egg yolks one at a time into the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure an even blend and smooth dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overwork it to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes for the cookies.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve once fully cooled for best texture.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to maintain a tender crumb.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Optionally, you can add vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
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