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French Butter Cookies (Sablés): Rich, Tender, and Irresistibly Buttery

These classic French butter cookies—often called sablés (meaning “sandy”)—are famous for their
delicate crumb, crisp edges, and deep buttery flavor. They’re elegant enough for a holiday cookie tray, easy enough
for a weekend bake, and perfect with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Prep: 15 min • Chill: 45–60 min • Bake: 10–14 min • Total: 1 hr 15 min

Makes: 24–30 cookies • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

Classic Sablé Dough

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened (very important for flavor)
  • 2/3 cup (135 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1/2 tsp almond extract)
  • 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp fine salt

Optional (For Extra “French Bakery” Finish)

  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp milk (for egg wash shine)
  • Sanding sugar (for sparkle and crunch)
  • Flaky sea salt (tiny pinch on top)

Instructions

Method A: Slice-and-Bake (Easiest, Most Classic)

  1. Cream butter and sugar: In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth and creamy (about 1–2 minutes).
    Don’t overwhip—sablés are tender, not airy.
  2. Add yolk and vanilla: Mix in egg yolk and vanilla until combined.
  3. Add dry ingredients: Add flour and salt. Mix just until a soft dough forms. If it looks crumbly,
    keep mixing a few seconds more—French butter cookie dough comes together slowly.
  4. Shape into logs: Divide dough into 2 logs (about 2 inches thick). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for 45–60 minutes, until firm.
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