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Classic French Butter Cookies Recipe – crispy edges, tender centers, perfect for serving at home or gifting.
Sonia Khan

French Butter Cookies Recipe (Crisp & Buttery)

This French Butter Cookies recipe results in crisp, delicate, and rich with buttery flavor. They have a tender texture and classic melt-in-your-mouth taste that makes them perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, edible gifts, or anytime you want an elegant homemade cookie.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: bakery style, French
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg white lightly beaten, optional for brushing
  • Coarse sugar optional for topping

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Add the flour and salt, then mix just until a soft dough forms.
  5. Scoop or shape the dough into small rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
  6. Gently flatten the tops slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.
  7. Brush the tops with lightly beaten egg white and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if using.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use good-quality butter for the best flavor since butter is the star ingredient.
  • Do not overmix the dough, or the cookies may turn out less tender.
  • Chill the dough for 15 to 20 minutes if it feels too soft to shape.
  • These cookies pair beautifully with tea or coffee.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.