Name: French Salted Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

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French Salted Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that beautifully blend the rich flavor of quality butter with a hint of salt, creating a cookie experience that is both sweet and savory. This French classic is simple enough for any home baker to tackle, yet indulgent enough to impress friends and family. With their tender texture and crisp edges, these cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as an everyday snack.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 120 kcal
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 70mg

Why Make This French Salted Butter Cookies

These cookies stand out because of their unique blend of sweet and salty flavors. The use of quality unsalted butter gives them a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the flaky sea salt on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the cookies’ sweetness. They are not only easy to make but also customizable, allowing you to get creative with flavors or toppings. Perfect for holiday gatherings, lunchbox treats, or casual snacking, French Salted Butter Cookies never disappoint!

How to Make French Salted Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. After that, mix in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.

Step 4: Shaping and Baking

Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your hands and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve French Salted Butter Cookies

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments. Serve them alongside a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon break. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters or cookie jars, adding a gourmet flair to any gathering.

How to Store French Salted Butter Cookies

To store your French Salted Butter Cookies, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months in the freezer—just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect French Salted Butter Cookies

Use high-quality butter for the best flavor; if possible, choose European-style butter, which has a higher fat content.
If you prefer a chewier cookie, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
Experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to personalize your cookies.
Replace half of the granulated sugar with powdered sugar for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt for an extra indulgent twist.
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutty Enhancements: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts in the dough for added crunch and flavor.
Spiced Edition: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, spiced note to your cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just omit the additional salt in the recipe to maintain balance.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients, and make sure to bake the cookies in batches if your oven can’t accommodate them all at once.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the center looks slightly soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
What if I accidentally overbake them?
If your cookies are overbaked, they might become too crispy. You can still enjoy them with a glass of milk or use them in a crust for a cheesecake!

Conclusion

French Salted Butter Cookies are an easy yet elegant treat with their delightful balance of flavors and textures. They make for a perfect snack anytime, whether you are catching up with friends over tea or simply treating yourself at home. With their simple preparation and inviting aroma, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself—these cookies are just waiting to bring a slice of French patisserie magic into your kitchen!