Indulge in the sweet and buttery world of French cookies! From classic Madeleines to innovative twists on traditional flavors, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering recipes that will transport you straight to the streets of Paris. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking for inspiration, these delicious French cookie recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From the tender crumb of our Classic French Madeleines to the delicate crunch of our Lavender Shortbread Cookies, each recipe has been carefully curated to bring a taste of la vie en rose to your kitchen. So go ahead, get baking, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home with warmth and joy!
Classic French Madeleines
Classic French Madeleines: Delicate and Buttery French Treats
Madeleines are a classic French dessert that has been delighting taste buds for centuries. These small, shell-shaped cakes are infused with the subtle flavors of lemon and vanilla, making them a perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan and dust it with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan, filling each shell about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your tea time with these delicate shortbread cookies infused with the subtle flavor and aroma of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 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 large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lavender buds and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
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 the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
French Butter Cookies (Sablés)
These classic French cookies are a staple of any bakery or patisserie. With their delicate texture and buttery flavor, they’re perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°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 the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Almond Tuiles
Elevate your dessert game with these crispy, nutty tuiles dipped in rich chocolate. Perfect for a special occasion or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almonds, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tuile.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Dip cooled tuiles into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
10. Place on parchment paper-lined surface; garnish with nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pistachio Financiers
These buttery, nutty financiers are a classic French dessert that’s perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat any time of the day. With their delicate texture and subtle pistachio flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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, pistachios, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until financiers are golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Orange Blossom Macarons
Elevate your French patisserie game with these delicate, flavorful macarons infused with the essence of orange blossoms.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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 large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and salt; continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add orange blossom water and food coloring (if using); mix until combined.
5. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture; gently fold until smooth.
6. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe into desired shapes.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form skin.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hazelnut Langues de Chat
These delicate French macarons are infused with the rich flavor of hazelnuts and a touch of saltiness, perfect for a sophisticated dessert or snack. With their crispy exterior and chewy interior, Hazelnut Langues de Chat will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnut paste or chopped hazelnuts
– Food coloring (optional)
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 large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and salt; continue whipping until combined.
4. Fold in hazelnut paste or chopped hazelnuts into the meringue mixture.
5. Spoon batter onto prepared baking sheet, forming small circles.
6. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Palmiers
A sweet and buttery twist on the classic French cookie, these Vanilla Bean Palmiers are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar.
3. Add the softened butter and beat until smooth and creamy.
4. Beat in the egg and flour until well combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Sablés
These buttery sablés infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary are perfect for a refreshing twist on traditional shortbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and lemon juice until combined.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped rosemary leaves.
5. Gradually add flour, stirring until dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Linzer Cookies
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic Linzer cookie, these Raspberry Linzers combine the perfect balance of raspberry jam and buttery shortbread.
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 cup raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam onto one half of the cookie, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the cookie over the jam and press gently to seal.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
Speculoos Spiced Cookies
Get ready to delight your senses with these crunchy and flavorful cookies infused with the warm spices of speculoos. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon speculoos spice (or a combination of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg)
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, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in speculoos spice (or your preferred spice blend).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Cookies
Experience the delightful combination of citrusy Earl Grey tea and sweet cookies with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Earl Grey tea leaves (loose-leaf or tea bags)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
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 sugar until light and fluffy. Add Earl Grey tea leaves and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Rochers
Get ready to impress with these rich and indulgent chocolate hazelnut rochers, perfect for a special treat or gift. Crunchy hazelnuts and velvety chocolate come together in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together hazelnuts and sugar.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Stir in softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the hazelnut mixture; fold gently to combine.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Almond Flour Shortbread
This classic shortbread recipe gets a delicious twist by using almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour. The result is a buttery, crumbly cookie with a nutty flavor and a delicate texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
A classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These chewy cookies are a great way to enjoy the creamy flavor of coconut without any fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add water and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold whipped egg whites into coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramelized White Chocolate Cookies
Transform plain white chocolate into a rich, caramel-like spread and use it to create chewy cookies that are sure to please. These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramelized white chocolate spread (see note)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in caramelized white chocolate spread.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Note: To caramelize white chocolate, melt 1 cup white chocolate chips with 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until deep amber color forms.
Rosewater Meringue Kisses
A delicate and romantic treat, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– 1 tablespoon rosewater extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add rosewater and vanilla extracts; whisk until combined.
4. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each kiss.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until the kisses are dry and crisp.
6. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Anise-Scented Springerle
Experience the warm, spicy aroma of anise in these traditional German Springerle cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup grated anise seed
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange flower water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the grated anise seed, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and orange flower water (if using).
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place cookies 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
Summary
Indulge in the richness of French patisserie with these 18 irresistible cookie recipes. From classic madeleines to innovative creations, discover a world of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Highlights include delicate lavender shortbread cookies, rich chocolate-dipped almond tuiles, and tangy orange blossom macarons. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a sophisticated dessert, these French cookie recipes are sure to delight.
