French Salted Butter Cookies Recipe

French Salted Butter Cookies are the perfect treat to indulge in when you want something delightfully buttery with just the right hint of saltiness. These cookies are crisply tender with a subtle vanilla aroma that makes each bite melt in your mouth. They’re simple yet sophisticated, embodying the elegance of French baking with ingredients that transform into a meltaway cookie experience you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of French Salted Butter Cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the rich butter creating a tender crumb to the flaky sea salt giving that classic balance. These precise but straightforward components work together to bring out the cookie’s irresistible flavor and texture.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, 225g): Softened butter ensures a smooth dough and rich, creamy flavor without extra salt controlling the saltiness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup, 100g): Adds just the right sweetness and helps create a delicate crumb.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups, 250g): The foundation that gives the cookie structure while remaining tender.
• Flaky sea salt (1/4 teaspoon plus extra): Adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, enhancing the buttery flavor beautifully.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and subtle aroma that complements the salted butter perfectly.

How to Make French Salted Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and smooth—this creates an airy base that will give your cookies that perfect tender texture.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla Extract

Mix in the pure vanilla extract to infuse a delicate aroma and subtle sweetness. Vanilla is the soul of these cookies, tying all the flavors together.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, folding gently to combine. Be careful not to overwork the dough; this keeps the cookies tender and crumbly rather than dense.

Step 4: Add the Salt

Gently fold in the flaky sea salt, then sprinkle a little extra on top of each cookie before baking to get those bursts of salty flavor that elevate the butteriness.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

Form the dough into small balls or your desired shape, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden — you want them crisp but tender on the inside for that perfect French Salted Butter Cookie bite.

How to Serve French Salted Butter Cookies

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt just as the cookies come out of the oven brings out their buttery richness. For a festive twist, try dipping half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate and letting it set — the combination is heavenly.

Side Dishes

French Salted Butter Cookies shine alongside a warm cup of tea, rich coffee, or even a creamy hot chocolate. For an elegant touch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a small bowl of fresh berries.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these classic cookies into a charming gift by stacking them in a beautiful tin with parchment paper or wrapping them in cellophane tied with a colorful ribbon. You can also sandwich the cookies with a thin layer of fruit preserves or vanilla buttercream to add a delightful surprise inside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your French Salted Butter Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for when cravings strike.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed bag or container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature, and if you want to refresh their crispness, pop them into the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy that freshly baked feel, warm the cookies briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soft and lose their delicate crumb.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

While it’s best to use unsalted butter to control the salt level, you can use salted butter if you reduce the added flaky sea salt. This helps prevent your cookies from becoming overly salty.

What makes the flaky sea salt important?

Flaky sea salt has a light texture that elevates the flavor while providing a pleasant crunch and salt burst on top of each cookie, which is essential for authentic French Salted Butter Cookies.

Can I add flavors to these cookies?

Definitely! While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with almond extract or lemon zest to add a fresh twist, but keep the balance so the butter flavor still shines through.

How thick should I make the cookies?

A thickness of about 1/4 inch ensures an ideal balance between crisp edges and tender centers, which is the hallmark of these butter cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but results may vary.

Final Thoughts

French Salted Butter Cookies are truly a joy to bake and share, with their perfect buttery taste and just a touch of salt that keeps you coming back for more. They’re simple enough for weekday treats yet elegant enough to serve at special gatherings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon understand why these cookies are a beloved classic in French baking!

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