Ingredients
Scale
The key to these cookies lies in selecting the right ingredients. I always reach for the best-quality salted butter I can find because it truly makes a difference in flavor and texture. Growing up, my mum would insist that fresh, simple ingredients are the heart of any great baked good, and I couldn’t agree more. Using all-purpose flour and pure cane sugar keeps the cookie’s character classic, while a pinch of flaky sea salt on top adds that quintessential French touch.
- 1 cup (225g) salted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
If you prefer, you can substitute unsalted butter and add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt to the dough. For a slightly different texture, some bakers swap half the all-purpose flour for pastry flour, which makes the cookies even more tender.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Mix in the vanilla extract if using, then gradually add the flour and flaky sea salt, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out rounds or your preferred shapes.
- Place the cookies on the baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie for that signature French touch.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain pale. Keep a close eye in the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up just right.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
