Name: French Salted Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486058H59M56S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted French butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt (or fleur de sel); Additional sea salt for sprinkling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple yet elegant, highlighting the deep, creamy flavor of French butter complemented by a touch of sea salt. The cookies are crisp around the edges but soft in the center, making them an irresistible snack or dessert to pair with tea or coffee. Plus, the sprinkling of salt on top adds a sophisticated flavor contrast.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted French butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon sea salt (or fleur de sel)
Additional sea salt for sprinkling

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy and light.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt in a separate bowl.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help maintain shape while baking.
Once chilled, roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place them on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie for an extra burst of flavor.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden while the centers stay soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and enjoy alongside your favorite tea or coffee.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Substitute fleur de sel for sea salt for a more delicate saltiness.
Add finely chopped toasted nuts like almonds or pecans to the dough for added texture.
Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Use brown butter instead of softened butter for a nutty, caramelized taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) to refresh crispiness if needed.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, but if using salted butter, reduce or omit added sea salt.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze the dough wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain the shape and prevents excessive spreading.

What type of flour is best?

All-purpose flour works well to give the cookies the right texture.

Can I use a mixer or mix by hand?

Either method works; a mixer speeds up creaming the butter and sugar but hand mixing is fine.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can grease the baking sheets lightly, but parchment paper helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.

How do I get a soft center and crispy edges?

Bake just until edges are golden; the centers should remain soft when the cookies are removed from the oven.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, vanilla is classic, but almond extract or citrus zest can also enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

French Salted Butter Cookies offer a simple yet luxurious treat with a perfect blend of sweet butteriness and a touch of sea salt. Their tender crumb and delicate flavor make them a wonderful addition to any tea time or dessert spread. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.