French Butter Cookies
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of French Butter Cookies:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want to line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and make sure it’s fully combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Gently mix until a cohesive dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip. Pipe the dough into 2-inch long swirls or any shape you prefer onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden brown.
- Once baked, take them out and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
French Butter Cookies are perfect on their own, but here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
- Serve them with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert.
- Pair with your favorite hot tea or coffee blend to enhance their buttery flavor.
- For a festive touch, dust with additional powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your French Butter Cookies fresh for longer:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- If you wish to freeze them, place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep well for up to three months.
- When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature, or warm them briefly in a microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to make
- Ensure your butter is fully softened to room temperature. This allows for easier creaming with sugar, leading to a better texture.
- For an even more tender cookie, avoid overmixing the dough when adding flour.
- Experiment with different shapes—use a piping bag for fancy swirls, or simply roll the dough into balls for classic simplicity.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you might consider for your French Butter Cookies:
- Add cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
- Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal flair.
- Replace some of the flour with almond flour for a nutty taste and gluten-free option.
FAQs
How long does it take to make these cookies?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes baking your French Butter Cookies, including prep time and baking.
Can I substitute the unsalted butter for something else?
While unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor control, you could substitute it with a margarine or a plant-based butter if needed.
What’s the best way to ensure my cookies don’t spread too much while baking?
Make sure your butter is at the correct temperature—softened but not melted. Also, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before piping can help maintain the shape during baking.
Now, you’re all set to create these sublime French Butter Cookies at home! Enjoy the delightful process and the even tastier results.
French Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, gently mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip.
- Pipe the dough into 2-inch long swirls or any preferred shape onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden brown.
- Once baked, let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
