Baking these French butter cookies, or Sables Bretons, is like unlocking a treasure chest of buttery, crumbly goodness. Originating from Brittany, France, these cookies are a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet gift, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why This Recipe Works
- The high butter content ensures a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s unmistakably French.
- Using powdered sugar instead of granulated gives the cookies a tender crumb.
- A pinch of salt enhances the buttery flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Chilling the dough before baking prevents spreading, ensuring thick, sturdy cookies.
- The optional egg yolk glaze adds a beautiful golden finish and a slight crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze, optional)
Equipment Needed
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 more minutes. Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to avoid a lumpy mixture.
Incorporate the Egg Yolks
Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should look smooth and slightly glossy. This step is crucial for binding the dough and adding richness.
Mix in the Flour
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour is fully incorporated.
Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm. This step is essential for easy rolling and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Tip: If you’re short on time, you can freeze the dough for 30 minutes instead.
Roll, Cut, and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them to parchment-lined baking sheets. For a glossy finish, brush the tops with a mixture of milk and beaten egg yolk. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Tip: Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even browning.
Tips and Tricks
For the flakiest cookies, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content than regular butter. If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar with a bit of cornstarch. To add a twist, incorporate lemon zest or vanilla extract into the dough for extra flavor. Always let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent breakage.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Sables: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolatey version.
- Almond Sables: Replace 1/4 cup of flour with almond flour and add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
- Citrus Sables: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing twist.
- Spiced Sables: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.
Why did my cookies spread too much? This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or if the oven temperature was too low. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly and check your oven’s accuracy with a thermometer.
Can I use salted butter? You can, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overly salty cookies.
Summary
These French Butter Cookies (Sables Bretons) are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with elegance. With their buttery flavor and tender crumb, they’re sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these cookies are a baking project worth undertaking.