French Salted Butter Cookies

Name: French Salted Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted French butter, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 egg yolk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful blend of sweet and savory with these French Salted Butter Cookies. This recipe highlights the unique richness of French butter and the perfect touch of sea salt, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth treat that's perfect for any occasion. These cookies are simple to make and are sure to impress friends and family with their exceptional flavor.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-11T09:14:11.994Z

These cookies are a quintessential French treat that brings together the rich flavor of butter and a hint of salt. Perfect for any time of day!

A Taste of France

French Salted Butter Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Originating from the regions of Brittany, these cookies showcase the incredible quality of French butter. The use of salted butter adds a unique twist, creating a balance between sweet and savory that makes each bite utterly irresistible. When you indulge in these cookies, you are not just enjoying a treat; you are experiencing a little piece of French culinary tradition.

These cookies are a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The rich, creamy texture of the French butter enhances the flavor profile, while the delicate sprinkle of sea salt elevates the overall experience. Perfectly paired with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to transport you to a quaint Parisian café, even if you are enjoying them from home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, French Salted Butter Cookies are the perfect choice. Their elegant appearance and delightful flavor make them suitable for any event, from casual family get-togethers to formal celebrations. You can easily customize the shapes and sizes to fit the theme of your occasion, making them the versatile cookie your recipe collection needs.

These cookies also make fantastic gifts. Presented in a lovely tin or box, they offer a personal touch that’s sure to impress. Friends and family will appreciate the effort that goes into making these delicious cookies, and you’ll be sharing a taste of French culture with every bite. Plus, their simple ingredients mean you can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes, ensuring that there’s always a sweet treat on hand.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you begin.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted French butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 egg yolk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create perfect cookies.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift the flour and sea salt together. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter mixture until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy!

Cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your French Salted Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft texture and prevent them from becoming stale. They can last for up to a week, but they'll likely disappear long before that! If you want to go the extra mile, consider lining the container with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.

If you prefer, you can freeze these cookies for longer storage. Once baked and cooled, simply place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can even warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked goodness.

Variations to Try

While the classic French Salted Butter Cookies are divine on their own, there are numerous variations you can try. For a delightful twist, consider adding citrus zest such as lemon or orange to the dough. This addition will impart a refreshing note that complements the richness of the butter beautifully, creating a multi-layered flavor experience.

Another fun option is to incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into your cookie dough. The richness of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the salty sweetness of the cookies, providing a satisfying contrast. Feel free to experiment with nuts, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon for seasonal variations that are just as delicious as the original.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.