Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy — this should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Sift in the flour and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms — be careful not to overmix!
- Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip or any decorative nozzle of your choice.
- Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, using 2-inch spacing between each cookie for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving French Butter Cookies can be as creative as you want. For a classic touch, dust them with powdered sugar right before serving. Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee for the ultimate afternoon snack. They also make a charming addition to dessert platters for parties, perfectly placed beside fresh fruit or dark chocolate for a sophisticated touch. Don’t forget, they’re also scrumptious on their own!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your French Butter Cookies remain fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, although I’m sure they won’t stick around that long! If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Just allow them to thaw before serving.
Pro chef tips
- For an extra touch, try chilling your dough for 15-30 minutes before piping. This helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off for easy decorating.
- Play around with flavors! Adding finely chopped nuts or zest from citrus fruits can elevate your cookies in delightful new ways.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Change things up by adding different flavorings like lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla. You could also sprinkle some sea salt on top of the cookies before they bake for a sweet-and-salty experience. Additionally, dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate is a delicious way to add an indulgent layer. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine through!
Common questions
What is the prep time for French Butter Cookies?
The preparation time takes about 15 minutes, and baking them will require another 12-15 minutes. So in total, you can have freshly baked cookies in under 30 minutes!
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted for this recipe?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but remember to reduce the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is at the right consistency — too warm can lead to spreading. Chilling the dough briefly before piping also helps maintain their shape while baking.
