Ready to elevate your baking game with some classic French cookies? The focus keyword here is sable cookies, a delightful treat that’s both buttery and irresistible. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves baking and wants to try their hand at a traditional French dessert. These cookies are great because they are simple to make, require basic ingredients, and are sure to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Q: What does “sablé” mean in baking?
A: “Sablé” translates to “sandy” in French, referring to the delicate, crumbly texture of these cookies, which is achieved by the high butter content.
Recipe Details
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 cookies | 20 minutes | 12 minutes | 32 minutes | 100 |
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain the delicate texture of the cookies.
Step 5: Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each portion into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 1g |
Watch this video for a detailed demonstration:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Plastic wrap
- Knife
- Wire rack
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover sable cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
Sable cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a delightful addition to an afternoon tea spread, alongside other classic treats like macarons and madeleines. For a festive touch, serve them with a glass of bubbly champagne or a dessert wine.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Tips: For the best texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you begin. Avoid over-mixing the dough to ensure your cookies remain tender.
- Variations: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist. You can also dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Q: What does sablé mean in baking?
A: “Sablé” translates to “sandy” in French, referring to the delicate, crumbly texture of these cookies, which is achieved by the high butter content.
Q: Where did sable cookies come from?
A: Sable cookies originated in Sablé-sur-Sarthe, a town in France, hence the name. They are a traditional French cookie known for their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture.
Q: What is a sablé biscuit in English?
A: In English, a sablé biscuit is often referred to as a “shortbread cookie.” Both terms describe a tender, crumbly cookie made with a high proportion of butter.
Q: What does sablé mean in dessert?
A: In the context of dessert, “sablé” refers to a type of cookie or biscuit that has a sandy, crumbly texture due to its high butter content and careful mixing process.
Q: Can I make sable cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. You can also freeze the dough logs for up to three months and slice and bake as needed.
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