French Butter Cookies

Name: French Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, buttery flavor of these traditional French Butter Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:24:34.825Z

French Butter Cookies are a classic treat that embody the essence of French pastry culture. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor, these cookies are an indulgence that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich buttery flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Simple ingredients that create a gourmet experience
Perfect for tea time or as a delightful gift

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

French Butter Cookies are a timeless classic that transcends seasons and occasions. Whether you're celebrating a special event, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in an afternoon snack, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a delightful companion for your favorite beverage.

These cookies also make for an elegant homemade gift. When beautifully packaged, they showcase your culinary skills and thoughtfulness, sure to impress friends and family. Imagine presenting a box of these delicious treats at a gathering or as a token of appreciation—it's a simple yet heartfelt gesture that always resonates.

Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Results

One of the best aspects of French Butter Cookies is that they require minimal ingredients, yet the outcome is nothing short of gourmet. With just unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt, you can create cookies that taste like they came from a high-end bakery. This simplicity allows anyone, regardless of baking experience, to achieve impressive results.

The key is the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract will elevate the flavor significantly. This recipe encourages you to embrace simplicity while delivering a rich culinary experience that is both satisfying and delightful.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your French Butter Cookies turn out perfectly every time, begin by properly softening your butter. Room temperature butter mixes more evenly with sugar, creating a light and fluffy texture that is essential for cookie success. Avoid melting the butter, as this can lead to overly flat cookies.

Chilling the dough is another crucial step. Refrigerating the shaped logs not only firms up the dough for easier slicing but also enhances the flavor. This resting period allows the ingredients to meld, resulting in a richer taste that is characteristic of traditional French cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix these simple ingredients to create a smooth dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Do not overmix.

Shape the Cookies

Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious French Butter Cookies!

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a week.

Storing Your Cookies

Once your French Butter Cookies have cooled completely, storing them properly will help maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, although you may find they disappear much quicker!

For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Variations to Try

While the classic French Butter Cookie is a delectable treat on its own, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. Adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, can infuse a refreshing twist. Alternatively, incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts can create a delightful texture contrast.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider rolling the cookies in colored sugar before baking for a festive touch. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch to the finished product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped logs of dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.