Name: French Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg yolks (plus 1 extra yolk for brushing, optional); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp milk or water (optional, for egg wash)

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French Butter Cookies—also known as Sablés Breton—are one of my all-time favorite treats to bake when I’m craving something classic, simple, and irresistibly buttery. These cookies have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delicate crisp edge and a rich, buttery flavor that only gets better as they cool. With just a few ingredients, they’re the perfect example of less-is-more baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, elegant, and deeply satisfying. The cookies come together with pantry staples and don’t require any fancy tools or techniques. Whether I serve them with tea, coffee, or on a dessert tray, they always disappear fast. They store well, taste amazing, and their buttery flavor is absolutely unforgettable. Plus, they’re beautiful in their rustic simplicity—especially when I score the tops or use a cookie stamp. French Butter Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Egg yolks
All-purpose flour
Vanilla extract
Salt
Optional: egg yolk mixed with a little milk or water for brushing the tops (for golden finish)

Directions

I cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
I mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until fully combined.
I sift in the flour and salt, then gently mix until a soft dough forms.
I shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Once chilled, I slice the dough into rounds about ¼ inch thick or roll it out and cut with cookie cutters.
I place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and, if desired, brush the tops lightly with a mixture of egg yolk and milk for shine.
I bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
I let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies, depending on the size.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist. I’ve also made them with almond extract or dipped half in dark chocolate once cooled. For a holiday spin, I sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking. If I want a decorative look, I gently score the tops with a fork or use a cookie stamp before baking.

Storage/reheating

These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I don’t usually need to reheat them—they’re best at room temp—but if I want to refresh them slightly, I warm them in a low oven (300°F) for 3–5 minutes. They also freeze well; I store baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. French Butter Cookies

FAQs

What makes these cookies “French”?

The rich butter and fine crumb are typical of French sablé-style cookies. They’re traditional in Brittany, known for its high-quality butter, and usually made with minimal ingredients for pure flavor.

Can I use salted butter?

I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the salt, but if I use salted butter, I reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps firm the dough so the cookies hold their shape during baking. It also enhances the flavor and improves the texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the dough a day ahead and keep it chilled until ready to slice and bake. I can also freeze the dough log and slice it straight from the freezer.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be a bit more delicate, but the flavor is still lovely.

Conclusion

French Butter Cookies are the kind of simple, elegant treat I never get tired of baking—or eating. Buttery, tender, and subtly sweet, they’re perfect for any occasion or just to have with an afternoon coffee. Whether I keep them classic or add a little personal twist, they always remind me that the best desserts don’t have to be complicated—they just have to be made with love (and plenty of butter).