French Salted Butter Cookies Recipe

If you have a passion for buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are delightfully simple yet deeply satisfying, then these French Salted Butter Cookies will quickly become your new favorite indulgence. With their perfect balance of rich butter, a whisper of vanilla, and just the right sprinkle of flaky sea salt, they deliver a crisp texture and an unforgettable flavor that feels like a little piece of Parisian magic right in your kitchen. These French Salted Butter Cookies are the kind of classic recipe that feels both timeless and special, ideal for sharing with friends or savoring with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for French Salted Butter Cookies is both simple and essential. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting cookies that are tender, flavorful, and beautifully textured from the first bite to the last.

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness and brings richness to every bite.
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Provides the perfect amount of sweetness and helps create that crisp edge.
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies structure and a delicate crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus more to sprinkle): Adds a bright contrast that enhances the buttery flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, elevating the cookie’s classic taste.

How to Make French Salted Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by softening your butter to room temperature, then cream it together with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about three to five minutes. This crucial step introduces air and ensures your cookies will have a delicate texture rather than being dense.

Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the pure vanilla extract to bring a fragrant, sweet undertone. This addition might be small, but it adds incredible character to your French Salted Butter Cookies, making each bite more inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar mix. Whether you use a mixer on low speed or fold it in gently with a spatula, be careful not to overmix. The dough should form a soft, pliable texture—if it’s too sticky, a little extra flour can help.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling firms up the dough and makes it easier to slice while helping the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 5: Slice and Sprinkle with Salt

Once chilled, slice the dough into thin rounds, approximately 1/4-inch thick, and space them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt—the signature touch that truly sets these French Salted Butter Cookies apart.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for pale centers with gently golden edges. This careful baking ensures that the cookies retain a tender bite, with crisp edges that provide an irresistible contrast.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them set perfectly and prepares them to be enjoyed or stored.

How to Serve French Salted Butter Cookies

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking is the classic way to garnish these cookies, giving each bite a subtle burst of flavor. You can also try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a sweeter finish or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a more elegant touch.

Side Dishes

French Salted Butter Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages; try them alongside a robust cup of black coffee, an aromatic tea, or even a chilled glass of milk. They also work beautifully next to fresh fruit or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream, striking a lovely balance between buttery richness and refreshing sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, arrange these cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper, perfect for gifting or serving at a gathering. You can also sandwich them with homemade jam or chocolate ganache to create delightful cookie sandwiches that are sure to impress. Their simple elegance makes them a terrific treat for holiday platters or afternoon tea settings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store your French Salted Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps keep them crisp on the outside while maintaining their tender interior. Lining the container with parchment paper between layers protects them from sticking together.

Freezing

Freeze the dough log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice from the frozen log and add a minute or two to the baking time—fresh, homemade French Salted Butter Cookies anytime you want!

Reheating

If your cookies lose their crispness, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This quick reheating revives their delightful crunch and buttery aroma, making them taste freshly baked once again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted for French Salted Butter Cookies?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt added. Using salted butter might make the cookies overly salty, especially with the additional flaky sea salt topping.

How do I achieve the perfect cookie thickness?

Slicing the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds is ideal for even baking and a good balance between crispness and tenderness. Thicker slices may need more baking time, while thinner ones can become too crisp.

Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms the dough, helping the cookies maintain their shape while baking. It also enhances flavor development and improves the texture, ensuring that classic melt-in-your-mouth experience.

What is the best type of sea salt to use?

Flaky sea salt, like Maldon or fleur de sel, is preferred for its delicate, crunchy texture and bright flavor that enhances the buttery sweetness without overpowering it.

Can I add other flavors to these cookies?

Absolutely! While the traditional French Salted Butter Cookies shine in their simplicity, you can gently fold in citrus zest, finely chopped nuts, or even a pinch of cinnamon to add your personal twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about French Salted Butter Cookies that makes you appreciate the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why these cookies have held a timeless place in the hearts of bakeries and home kitchens alike. So grab your butter and flour, and treat yourself to a batch that’s buttery, tender, and sprinkled with just that right hint of salt—it’s a little piece of joy you deserve.

Print