Sable Cookies are buttery, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth French shortbread cookies. They’re simple to make and perfect for tea time or as a base for tart crusts. Here’s a classic recipe for these delightful cookies:
Sable Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- Optional: Coarse sugar or sanding sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and salt together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add egg yolks and vanilla: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate flour: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) until firm.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice and bake: Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain pale.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- For a chocolate version, replace ¼ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- If the dough becomes too soft while slicing, return it to the refrigerator to firm up.
These Sable Cookies are buttery, tender, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee!
