Description
Crumbly, buttery, and rich with tradition, Buttery Palets Bretons are the ultimate French shortbread cookies you didn’t know you were missing. With crisp edges, a soft center, and that signature crosshatch glaze, these cookies are a brilliant addition to any tea time, coffee break, or dessert spread. Whether you’re searching for easy recipes, quick breakfast ideas, or an elegant European snack, this classic from Brittany, France, delivers with every bite. If you’re into simple baking, easy cookie recipes, or food ideas with minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this is your next go-to.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks (1 reserved for egg wash)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (if using unsalted butter)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Sea salt flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy using an electric mixer (2–3 minutes).
2. Add three egg yolks (one at a time), beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract if using.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Slowly mix into the wet mixture just until a dough forms.
4. Flatten dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease ring molds if using.
6. Roll dough to 1/2 inch thick. Cut discs using a round cutter and place in molds or on the baking sheet.
7. Beat the reserved egg yolk with a splash of milk or water. Brush over cookie tops and create crosshatch marks using a fork.
8. Bake for 15–18 minutes until deep golden on top and crisp at the edges. Cool before removing from molds.
9. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm. Serve cooled.
Notes
Use high-quality salted butter for authentic Breton flavor.
Don’t skip the chilling—it helps with shape and texture.
Egg wash and fork crosshatching give the cookies their classic finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: French shortbread, buttery cookies, tea cookies, quick breakfast, easy cookie recipe, food ideas, European snack