Classic French Cookies: A Sweet Treat from My Grandmother’s Kitchen

There’s something truly magical about baking. For me; it’s about the journey. It’s the warmth of the oven, the scent of butter and sugar wafting through the air, and the memories tied to each recipe. Today, I’m sharing a special part of my childhood: classic French cookies. These recipes, passed down from my late grandmother, capture the essence of traditional French baking, and I’m thrilled to guide you through making them.

1. Introduction to French Cookies

French cookies, or “biscuits,” are a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance. From buttery Sablé Breton to the famed Breton cookies, each bite tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Unlike their overly sweet counterparts, these cookies emphasize rich flavors and delicate textures. My grandmother’s La Grande Galette French butter cookies recipe holds a special place in my heart. With just a few ingredients, these cookies transform into something extraordinary.

2. The Heart of French Baking: Sablé Breton

Sablé Breton, or Breton butter cookies, hail from the Brittany region of France. The name “sablé” means “sandy” in French, reflecting their crumbly texture. These cookies are rich in butter, slightly salty, and utterly irresistible. They’re perfect with a cup of tea or as a base for a dessert tart. My grandmother’s twist? A dash of love and a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the list of ingredients for this recipe:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

4. Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is critical to make the perfect texture.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring they’re fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract (optional)

Step 3: Gradually Incorporate Flour

Sift the flour and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until you form a dough. The dough should be soft and not sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and put it in the refrigerator for at least 60 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough to around 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface. Use a round cutter to shape the cookies, or go for traditional scalloped edges.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1″ apart. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt if desired. please bake it between 10 min or 12 min or until the edges are golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Before transfering the cookies to wire rack, please let them cool down for around 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite beverage and savor the magic of French baking.

5. Tips from My Grandmother’s Kitchen

• Use quality butter: The butter is the star of the show, so opt for high-quality unsalted butter.
• Don’t skip chilling: It’s tempting to rush, but chilled dough makes all the difference.
• Experiment with salt: A touch of coarse sea salt elevates the flavors beautifully.
• Storing: for fresh cookies, keep them in an airtight container

6. Variations to Try

• Add citrus zest: For a fresh tast, add lemon or orange zest (based on your liking)
• Chocolate dip: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a luxurious treat.
• Nutty addition: Sprinkle crushed almonds or hazelnuts on top before baking.
• Herbal notes: Add a pinch of dried lavender for a French countryside vibe.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use salted butter? A: Yes, but reduce the added salt to balance the flavors.

Q: How long do these cookies last? A: Stored properly, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze the dough? A: Absolutely! Wrap the dough and you can freeze it up tos 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

8. Bringing It All Together

There you have it: a recipe that’s as timeless as it is delicious. Each bite of these French cookies brings back cherished memories of afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen. Baking these is more than just following a recipe; it’s about preserving a piece of family history and sharing it with others.

I hope you try this recipe and make your own sweet memories. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, there’s a certain joy in creating something so simple yet so special. Bon appétit!