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French Salted Butter Cookies

Classic buttery French cookies with crisp edges, tender centers, and a delicate flaky sea salt finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Bakery, French
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.25 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 cup salted butter softened
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 egg yolks large
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp heavy cream
  • 2 tsp flaky sea salt for topping
Egg Wash
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tsp water

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt in a medium bowl.
  3. Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Mix in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
  6. Shape dough into logs, wrap tightly, and chill for at least 1 hour.
  7. Slice chilled dough into rounds and arrange on baking sheets.
  8. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  9. Bake 12–15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
  10. Cool on wire racks before serving or storing.

Notes

Use high-quality European-style butter for the richest flavor and authentic French bakery texture.