Classic French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton)

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Rating: 4.7 from 6 reviews
Author: Kimberly
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French
Diet: Vegetarian

These French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton) are a beloved classic known for their rich, buttery flavor and tender, sandy crumb. Originating from the Brittany region of France, where butter reigns supreme, these cookies celebrate simplicity and quality ingredients. Crisp on the outside yet melt-in-your-mouth tender inside, they’re delicately sweet with a luxurious texture that makes them perfect for everyday treats or elegant occasions.

Sablés Breton are traditionally thicker than standard shortbread, giving them a satisfying bite and beautiful golden finish. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, make thoughtful edible gifts, and are ideal for holiday cookie platters. Despite their refined taste, they’re surprisingly straightforward to prepare when given a bit of chilling time.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The star ingredient; use high-quality butter for best flavor.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar – Adds gentle sweetness without overpowering the butter.
• 2 large egg yolks – Contribute richness and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the buttery flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cookies delicate.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – Balances sweetness and highlights the butter.
• 1 egg yolk (for brushing) – Creates a glossy, golden finish.

Instructions