French Salted Butter Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your cookie game with these delightful French Salted Butter Cookies, achieving the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Made with high-quality French butter and a touch of sea salt, these treats are a sophisticated twist on classic sugar cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring with a cup of tea.

Brianna Tate

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-09T15:41:04.165Z

These cookies derive their rich, buttery flavor from high-quality French butter, making them a truly indulgent treat.

The Charm of French Pastry

French pastry is lauded for its rich flavors and textures, and these Salted Butter Cookies exemplify that tradition. The use of high-quality French butter infuses these cookies with a creamy richness that sets them apart from standard cookies. Coupled with the delicate touch of sea salt, every bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory that elevates the cookie-eating experience. These cookies are a perfect representation of the sophistication found in French baking.

In French culture, food is much more than sustenance; it is an art form that reflects craftsmanship and care. These cookies, while simple in their ingredients, encapsulate this philosophy, showcasing how minimalism can create immensely satisfying flavors. Their unique taste makes them a wonderful addition to any gathering, whether it's a casual afternoon tea or a festive celebration.

Perfect Pairings

One of the joys of baking is sharing the fruits of your labor, and these French Salted Butter Cookies are perfect for pairing with beverages. A classic cup of Earl Grey tea enhances the cookies’ buttery flavor while the light citrus notes balance the sweetness beautifully. Alternatively, a rich coffee or espresso can create a contrasting experience that lifts the overall enjoyment of the cookie.

For a festive twist, consider serving these cookies with a selection of cheeses. The subtle saltiness complements creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, making for a delightful appetizer spread. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these cookies will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Baking Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted French butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and sea salt, mixing until combined.

Shape and Chill

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a baking sheet and flatten slightly. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookie dough for 12-15 minutes or until slightly golden at the edges. Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a sprinkle of extra sea salt on top!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your French Salted Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This will revive their warmth and fresh-baked taste, making them as delightful as when they were first made.

Variations to Try

While the classic French Salted Butter Cookies are delicious on their own, you can add your own twist to the recipe. Consider incorporating lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that adds brightness to each bite. Alternatively, mix in some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chunks for added texture and richness.

For those who enjoy a more adventurous flavor profile, try adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the mix. These aromatic spices bring warmth and depth, creating an entirely new experience with each batch. Baking is an art, and experimenting with flavors can lead to delightful surprises.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter?

Yes, just reduce the added sea salt in the recipe.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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

French Salted Butter Cookies

Elevate your cookie game with these delightful French Salted Butter Cookies, achieving the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Made with high-quality French butter and a touch of sea salt, these treats are a sophisticated twist on classic sugar cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring with a cup of tea.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Brianna Tate

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 1 cup unsalted French butter, softened
  2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  6. 1 teaspoon sea salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.

Step 02

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and sea salt, mixing until combined.

Step 03

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a baking sheet and flatten slightly. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 04

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookie dough for 12-15 minutes or until slightly golden at the edges. Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g