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French Vanilla Cookies with Complimentary Gift Tags – Bake Like a Chef

French Vanilla Cookies

These buttery and delicate French vanilla cookies are perfect for any occasion. With a rich vanilla flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they pair wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Cream the Butter & Sugar:
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

  • Add Wet Ingredients:
    Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste (if using) until fully incorporated.

  • Mix Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

  • Combine Wet & Dry:
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

  • Shape the Cookies:
    Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.

  • Bake:
    Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake to keep them soft.

  • Cool & Dust:
    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Vanilla Quality Matters: Using high-quality pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste enhances the flavor. Avoid artificial vanilla for the best results.
  • Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is properly softened (not melted) for the perfect creamy texture when mixing with sugar.
  • Chilling the Dough (Optional): If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent spreading.
  • For Crispier Cookies: Bake for an extra 1-2 minutes until the edges turn a deeper golden brown.
  • Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies also freeze well for up to 2 months.
  • Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or warm milk for a cozy treat.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Vanilla Cookies