French Butter Cookies Classic (Print-Friendly Version)

Delicate, crisp French butter cookies add a classic touch to festive holiday desserts or your next afternoon snack. The rich flavor of unsalted butter and a dusting of powdered sugar blend beautifully. With a light, crumbly texture, these homemade treats are a keeper.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
03 - 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
04 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

→ Coating

06 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

# How to Make It:

01 - Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend softened butter with powdered sugar until mixture becomes pale and light in texture.
02 - Add egg yolk and vanilla extract; mix just until combined and smooth.
03 - Sift all-purpose flour into the mixture and stir gently to create a soft, cohesive dough.
04 - Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a log approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 45 minutes to firm up.
05 - Preheat oven to 356°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Sprinkle granulated sugar onto a large plate for coating.
06 - Remove dough logs from freezer and unwrap. Roll each log evenly in granulated sugar. Slice each log into 3/8-inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
07 - Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
08 - Remove baking sheet from oven and let cookies rest on pan for 5 minutes. Transfer cooled cookies to a wire rack. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For best results, work quickly with the dough to prevent it from softening. If it becomes sticky, refrigerate until firm before shaping.