Description
These delicious French Butter Cookies are tender, buttery, and melt in your mouth with each bite. Perfectly sweetened and flavored with vanilla, these classic cookies are easy to make and ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Topping
- 2 tablespoons extra granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step helps to incorporate air into the dough for tender cookies.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix in the large egg yolk and vanilla extract until completely combined and smooth, which adds moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to form a soft dough, being careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and then flatten them slightly. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them adequately to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked and still soft inside.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before sprinkling with extra granulated sugar and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- You can substitute almond extract for vanilla if desired for a different flavor profile.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.
