French Salted Butter Cookies
French Salted Butter Cookies are an exquisite treat that transcends the ordinary cookie experience. Imagine the deliciously rich aroma of buttery goodness enveloping your kitchen as these cookies bake to golden perfection. With a delightful crunch on the outside and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture within, they are complemented by the subtle sweetness of granulated sugar and the distinctive touch of flaky sea salt. This recipe is truly a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for more. Making these cookies is worth every moment of your time, as they effortlessly blend simplicity with sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French Salted Butter Cookies recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try in any home kitchen. The preparation is remarkably easy, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. You can whip up a batch in under an hour of active time, plus a brief chill period, allowing you to share warm cookies with your loved ones in no time.
Another highlight is the minimal ingredient list, which includes items often already found in your pantry. This makes it incredibly beginner-friendly and a fantastic project for family baking sessions. The balance of flavors is also superb, as the sea salt enhances the richness of the butter, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients for French Salted Butter Cookies
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (or more to sprinkle)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
These simple yet high-quality ingredients form the heart of your French Salted Butter Cookies. The unsalted butter, softened to perfection, promises a rich, creamy base, while the granulated sugar adds just the right hint of sweetness. The all-purpose flour provides structural integrity, allowing these cookies to hold their shape as they bake. The addition of flaky sea salt not only elevates the flavor but also gives a beautiful finishing touch to each cookie, ensuring a delightful burst of contrast in every bite.
Step-by-Step Directions for French Salted Butter Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
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Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour.
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Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are pale.
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Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These step-by-step directions ensure that your baking experience is smooth and easy, leading to delightful French Salted Butter Cookies.
Tips & Tricks
To achieve perfect French Salted Butter Cookies, remember these chef’s secrets:
- Allow your butter to reach room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar. This helps achieve that light and airy texture.
- If time allows, let the dough chill longer than one hour; the flavors deepen, and the final cookies will have a better texture.
- Experiment with the amount of flaky sea salt based on your personal preference; those who enjoy a strong contrast will want to sprinkle more.
- For added depth, consider incorporating finely grated lemon or orange zest into the dough for a zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
French Salted Butter Cookies make for an elegant treat perfect for any occasion. Present them on a beautiful cake stand dusted with powdered sugar for a charming tea party. Pair them with a hot cup of espresso or a soothing herbal tea to highlight the buttery flavors. For a more decadent experience, enjoy these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or use them as a base for a sandwich cookie filled with sweetened mascarpone or chocolate ganache.
Nutritional Information
While these cookies are a delightful indulgence, you can expect an approximate nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 3.5g
Enjoying a cookie or two won’t derail your healthy eating plans, but moderation is always key!
Storing Tips & Variations for French Salted Butter Cookies
To keep your French Salted Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing the baked cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper separating the layers, and they can last up to three months.
If you wish to try variations, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or adding chocolate chips for a delightful twist. You can also experiment with different flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to personalize your cookies further.
Conclusion for French Salted Butter Cookies
Now that you have an easy and delicious recipe in hand, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake a batch of these irresistible French Salted Butter Cookies. Their delightful blend of sweet and salty will make these cookies the star of your next gathering or simply a treat to enjoy at home. Don’t wait—get started today and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen!
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added sea salt to avoid overpowering the cookies with saltiness.
2. How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly pale.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before slicing it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to three months.
4. What can I add to the dough for more flavor?
You can try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for longer-lasting freshness.
French Salted Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Allow to reach room temperature for optimal creaming.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free blend if desired.
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (or more to sprinkle) Adjust based on personal taste preference.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Can experiment with other flavored extracts.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour.
Baking
- Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are pale.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.