French Salted Butter Cookies
French Salted Butter Cookies are a classic treat combining rich, creamy salted butter with a perfect hint of sea salt. These cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, featuring crispy edges and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Ideal for pairing with tea or coffee, they bring elegance and simplicity to any occasion with their exquisite taste and easy-to-make recipe.
- Author: Emily
- 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: Gluten Free (with substitution)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) high-quality salted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling on top
- Prepare the Butter and Sugar: Let the salted butter come to room temperature until soft enough to cream smoothly. Cream the butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy to incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix the egg yolk and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar until the dough is smooth and cohesive, adding richness and depth of flavor.
- Incorporate the Flour: Sift the all-purpose flour into the mixture gradually, folding gently until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the delicate texture of the cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls or logs according to your preferred shape. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently press down for a uniform appearance.
- Add the Sea Salt and Bake: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra sea salt on top of each cookie. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack, ensuring they set and maintain their perfect crispness.
Notes
- Use high-fat, European-style salted butter for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if time allows for improved texture and easier shaping.
- Remove from oven as soon as edges turn golden to keep centers tender.
- Use fine sea salt for sprinkling to maintain balanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: French cookies, salted butter cookies, buttery cookies, crispy cookies, elegant desserts, tea time snacks