Indulge in the sweet and buttery world of French cookies! Who can resist the allure of a freshly baked, crumbly cookie straight from the oven? France is renowned for its exquisite patisserie, and its cookie recipes are no exception. With a rich history of culinary innovation, French bakers have perfected the art of creating delicate, flavorful treats that melt in your mouth.
From classic butter cookies to creative twists like lavender shortbread and hazelnut macarons, there’s something for every palate. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 irresistible French cookie recipes that are sure to delight both the young and old. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a sweet treat to brighten up your day, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Classic French Butter Cookies
Classic French Butter Cookies Recipe
These tender and buttery cookies are a staple of French patisserie, perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, or enjoying on their own. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Savor the subtle charm of lavender as it infuses these buttery shortbread cookies with a delicate floral flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lavender buds and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Tuiles
Elevate your baked goods with these crispy, flavorful Almond Tuiles, perfect for accompanying tea or coffee, or as a light dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicate cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg whites, and almond extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Spoon small mounds of batter onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Sablés
These crumbly, buttery cookies are a perfect treat for any chocolate lover. With a delicate balance of flavors and textures, these sablés will transport you to the French patisserie.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chocolate chips. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Financiers
Financiers are classic French mini cakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a delicate flavor. This recipe adds the nutty taste of pistachios to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (60g) ground pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add melted butter, ground pistachios, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Fill muffin cups 2/3 full with batter. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until financiers are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vanilla Madeleines
These delicate French cookies are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their light and airy texture, subtle vanilla flavor, and delicate shell shape, they’re sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan or a mini muffin tin and dust with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and milk to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange Flower Water Cookies
These fragrant cookies are infused with the sweet and citrusy essence of orange flower water, making them perfect for a unique dessert or snack. With only a few ingredients, they’re easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange flower water
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange flower water, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hazelnut Macarons
Elevate your French patisserie game with these decadent Hazelnut Macarons, featuring the rich flavor of hazelnuts and a delicate chew. This recipe yields a batch of 20-25 macarons.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnut meal
– Food coloring (optional)
– Hazelnut butter or chopped hazelnuts for filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
4. Add hazelnut meal to the egg mixture and fold gently.
5. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture and fold until combined.
6. Pipe 1-inch (2.5cm) circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
8. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.
10. Allow macarons to cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Speculoos Spiced Cookies
These aromatic cookies capture the essence of traditional Dutch speculaas spice, with notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Perfect for a festive treat or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Palmiers
Elevate your baking game with this refreshing take on the classic palmier cookie, infused with the brightness of lemon and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
4. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., palmier, rectangle, or circle).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Raspberry Linzer Cookies
Raspberry Linzer Cookies: A Classic Cookie Recipe with a Twist
These buttery shortbread cookies are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before filling with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramelized White Chocolate Cookies
Sweet and buttery, these cookies are elevated by the deep caramel flavor of golden-hued white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramelized white chocolate chips (see note)
– Optional: sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in caramelized white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Anise-Flavored Biscotti
These crunchy Italian cookies are infused with the sweet and licorice-like flavor of anise, perfect for dipping into your favorite coffee or tea. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these delicious biscotti at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground anise
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Stir in ground anise and egg until well combined.
5. Fold in chopped almonds, if using.
6. Divide dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
7. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
10. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices.
11. Place slices on baking sheet, leaving space between each slice.
12. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these delightful Earl Grey tea cookies, infused with the citrusy warmth of bergamot and a hint of sophistication. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves (finely ground)
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and ground Earl Grey tea leaves.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Rosemary Honey Cookies
Rosemary Honey Cookies Recipe
Elevate your baking game with these aromatic cookies that combine the warmth of honey and rosemary for a unique flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in rosemary leaves and the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dark Chocolate Dipped Sablés
Elevate your snacking experience with this simple yet indulgent recipe for Dark Chocolate Dipped Sablés. These buttery cookies are infused with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, making them perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
6. Dip cooled Sablés into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cherry Clafoutis Cookies
Experience the classic flavors of France with these Cherry Clafoutis Cookies, infused with sweet and tangy cherries. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these chewy cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and egg until light and fluffy.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Fold in cherries and baking powder.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Butter Breton Cookies
Experience the deep flavor of browned butter in these chewy cookies, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the world of French cookies with these 18 irresistible recipes. From classic butter cookies to creative flavor combinations, there’s something for every palate. Try making Lavender Shortbread Cookies or Pistachio Financiers for a taste of elegance. For chocolate lovers, Chocolate Sablés and Dark Chocolate Dipped Sablés are must-tries. Spice up your baking with Speculoos Spiced Cookies or Anise-Flavored Biscotti. Whatever your preference, these French cookie recipes are sure to delight your senses and satisfy your sweet tooth.
