Name: French Salted Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Flaky sea salt for topping

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why make this recipe

French Salted Butter Cookies are delightful treats that perfectly blend rich buttery flavor with a hint of saltiness. These cookies are simple to make and require just a few common ingredients, making them an easy choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The flaky sea salt topping adds a unique contrast to the sweetness, making these cookies perfectly addictive. Whether for an afternoon snack, a dessert for guests, or a special gift, these cookies are sure to impress everyone.

how to make French Salted Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Flaky sea salt for topping

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each cookie slightly and sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve French Salted Butter Cookies

Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven or let them cool completely before serving. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them at parties, or put them in a decorative box for a gift. These cookies are sure to please anyone who loves a sweet and salty treat.

how to store French Salted Butter Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they are best enjoyed within the first few days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they will stay good for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

tips to make French Salted Butter Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. This helps achieve the right texture in the cookies.
Don’t overmix the dough; mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
Experiment with different types of flaky sea salt for varied flavors and textures.
For extra sweetness, add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough.

variation

You can add some chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for different flavor combinations. Another variation is to use flavored extracts, like almond or lemon, instead of vanilla to change the taste of the cookies.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the extra salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it soften a bit before scooping and baking.

3. What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Make sure your butter is at the right temperature and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can help control spreading.