Delicious Sablés: The Irresistible Butter Cookies
Are you ready to dive into the sweet world of Sablés? These delightful butter cookies come from France and are loved all around the globe! Sablés are not just any cookies; they hold a special place in French cuisine and history. They originated in the Normandy region and were often enjoyed by families as a simple yet delicious treat. Everyone loves them because they are easy to make, incredibly tasty, and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Egg yolk | 1 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Optional: Lemon zest | Zest of 1 lemon |
If you don’t have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, but you might want to skip the added salt. And if you want to make it a bit more interesting, try adding some chocolate chips or nuts!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it warm while you prepare the dough.
- Mix the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and lemon zest if you’re using it.
- Mix everything together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Shape the cookies: Use your hands to shape the dough into logs, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Slice and bake: After chilling, slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 5% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Sugar | 5g | 6% |
| Fiber | 0g | 0% |
Tips and Tricks
- Flavor variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even swap out the vanilla for almond extract.
- Chill the dough: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies might spread too much while baking. Chilling helps them hold their shape!
- Watch the time: Keep an eye on them as they bake. These cookies can go from golden to burnt quickly!
- Store properly: Keep your Sablés in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for up to a week.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. Try using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for a lighter result.
How long do Sablés last?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
Can I add chocolate to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or cocoa powder can create a delicious chocolatey twist on the classic Sablés.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you want a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or vegan butter as a substitute for unsalted butter.
Are Sablés gluten-free?
Traditional Sablés are not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free flour blends to make a gluten-free version.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough is recommended, but if you’re short on time, you can bake them right away. Just keep in mind they may spread more.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Look for a light golden color on the edges. If the centers are also slightly soft, they will firm up as they cool.
Can I decorate the cookies?
Definitely! You can dust them with powdered sugar or dip them in chocolate once they’re cool.
What’s the best way to serve Sablés?
Sablés can be enjoyed on their own or served with tea or coffee. They’re also a great addition to a dessert platter!
Now that you’re armed with this delicious Sablés recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking! These sweet treats are sure to bring joy to your family and friends. Enjoy your cookie-making adventure!
