French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Butter Cookies, or Sablés Breton, are a classic treat from Brittany known for their rich, buttery flavor and tender, crumbly texture. With a hint of sea salt and a melt-in-your-mouth consistency, these cookies are elegant in their simplicity and perfect alongside tea or coffee. Their golden color and signature crosshatch pattern make them as beautiful as they are delicious.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter (room temperature)granulated sugaregg yolksvanilla extractall-purpose flourbaking powdersea salt (preferably fleur de sel or fine sea salt)

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

Roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg yolk for shine.

Use a fork to make a crosshatch pattern on each cookie.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus note.
Dip one half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent touch.
Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty twist.
Sprinkle with extra sea salt before baking for a savory-sweet finish.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
These cookies freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
No reheating necessary—enjoy as-is.

FAQs

What makes Sablés Breton different from other butter cookies?

The high butter content and use of egg yolks give them a rich, tender texture and distinctive flavor.

Can I use salted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter and add your own salt for better control of flavor.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the texture.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking.

Why do I need to brush with egg yolk?

It gives the cookies a beautiful golden shine and traditional look.

Can I use whole eggs instead of yolks?

Yolks give the right richness—whole eggs would change the texture.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

How thick should I roll the dough?

About ¼ inch thick for the ideal balance of crisp edges and tender centers.

Do they spread while baking?

Minimal spreading—chilling the dough helps keep their shape.

Can kids help make them?

Yes, especially with cutting and adding the crosshatch design.

Conclusion

French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton) are a timeless delight with rich, buttery elegance in every bite. Whether enjoyed plain or with a creative twist, these tender, golden cookies offer a taste of French tradition that’s simple to make and sure to impress. Perfect for gifting, savoring, or sharing with a cup of tea.

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