French Salted Butter Cookies

Published on: November 19, 2025

Freshly baked French salted butter cookies on a baking tray

French Salted Butter Cookies are a divine treat, with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors that will make your mouth water. With their golden edges and soft, chewy centers, these cookies are a delightful addition to any gathering or a cozy night in. The rich aroma of buttery goodness wafts through your kitchen as they bake, creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. Their simplicity—crafted with just a few ingredients—makes them an easy yet impressive dessert for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These French Salted Butter Cookies are ideal for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting snack on a rainy day. Their convenience is unmatched; with minimal prep and baking time, you can whip up a batch in no time. The rich buttery flavor combined with the subtle hint of sea salt elevates these cookies, making them versatile enough to pair with tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with others, these cookies are sure to impress and delight.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This recipe showcases the beauty of simple, seasonal ingredients, ensuring maximum flavor and freshness. The unsalted butter should be at room temperature, showcasing a creamy, golden hue that melts effortlessly when whipped. The sugars add a natural sweetness with a slight caramel undertone from the brown sugar. Using high-quality all-purpose flour gives the cookies a delicate texture, while flaky sea salt sprinkled on top provides a salty crunch that complements the rich, creamy cookie perfectly. Embracing these fresh ingredients not only enhances flavor but also supports sustainable cooking practices.

What You’ll Need

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for that rich, creamy base)
3/4 cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness and structure)
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for a hint of caramel flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (infuses warmth and depth)
2 cups all-purpose flour (for a tender texture)
1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance the overall flavor)
Flaky sea salt for topping (for that perfect finishing touch)

Feel free to substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free option for a vegan variation, or you can use gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs!

How to Make This Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should look pale and airy.
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen with warmth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Scoop the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them room to spread as they bake.
Add Sea Salt: Sprinkle a small amount of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking, enhancing that sweet-salty balance.
Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft to the touch.
Cool: Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they calm down from their warm bake!

Step Examples

Prepare the Base: Start with room temperature butter, which should feel soft and creamy to the touch, allowing it to mix easily with the sugars. The aroma at this stage is rich and inviting.

Mix the Ingredients: Whipping the butters and sugars together will create a light, fluffy texture—this is crucial for airy cookies. The sweetness will start to shine through.

Shape or Cook: Use a cookie scoop for even-sized balls, ensuring uniform baking. If some look rough, just roll them gently in your palms for a smooth finish.

Finish or Garnish: The flaky sea salt sprinkled on top gives a beautiful contrast and will melt slightly into the warm dough.

Serve and Enjoy: These cookies are best enjoyed warm, where the buttery richness combines perfectly with the slight crunch from the sea salt.

Essential Tools

Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients smoothly.
Electric Mixer: Speeds up the creaming process, but a whisk can work too.
Baking Sheets: Make sure to line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking for a fresh batch any time you need a sweet treat!

Perfect Pairings

These cookies pair beautifully with your favorite hot drinks. Consider serving them alongside rich coffee or a light tea, enhancing the warmth of their flavors. You could also optionally serve with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

When baking French Salted Butter Cookies, avoid the common mistake of overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. If the dough feels too dry, a splash of milk can help it come together. For perfectly shaped cookies, use a cookie scoop for even portions.

Pro Tips for Best Results

For extra flavor, consider browning your butter before mixing; it adds a depth that takes these cookies to the next level.
Ensure your butter is softened but not melting—this is key for achieving the right texture.
Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for varied flavors and textures.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Chocolate Chip Twist: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a chocolatey experience.
Nutty Edition: Add finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Citrus Zing: A touch of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the cookie flavor for a refreshing twist.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For a vegan version, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs to bind.
Use gluten-free flour blends to make the recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
Always double-check your serving ingredients for common allergens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
How do I store the cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips or chunks for a delicious twist.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to melted butter or not chilling the dough. Always ensure butter is soft, but still firm.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

These French Salted Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea. If you try this recipe, let us know your thoughts in the comments or share your creations on social media. For more delicious dessert inspirations, check out our dessert recipes here. Happy baking!