Buttery Palets Bretons are a delightful treat that brings the essence of French baking right to your kitchen. These traditional French butter cookies have a rich, crumbly texture, crisp edges, and a soft center that melts in your mouth. The signature crosshatch glaze adds visual appeal, making them perfect for any occasion, from tea time to dessert spreads. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant cookie recipe, these authentic Breton cookies are your go-to choice. Join me as we explore the art of making these buttery round cookies, a favorite among cookie lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Buttery Palets Bretons
There are many reasons to adore Buttery Palets Bretons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. Second, the combination of French butter cookies and minimal ingredients delivers maximum flavor. These cookies are perfect for sharing, making them a great addition to gatherings. The rich butter flavor paired with a hint of sweetness creates a delightful treat that everyone loves. Plus, they can be easily customized with flavor variations, such as chocolate or nuts, making them a versatile choice. Finally, with a prep time of just 1 hour, you can whip up a batch and enjoy them fresh from the oven!
Ingredients for Buttery Palets Bretons
Gather these items:
- 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)
How to Make Buttery Palets Bretons Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy using an electric mixer (2–3 minutes).
- Step 2: Add three egg yolks (one at a time), beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Slowly mix into the wet mixture just until a dough forms.
- Step 4: Flatten dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 5: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease ring molds if using.
- Step 6: Roll dough to 1/2 inch thick. Cut discs using a round cutter and place in molds or on the baking sheet.
- Step 7: Beat the reserved egg yolk with a splash of milk or water. Brush over cookie tops and create crosshatch marks using a fork.
- Step 8: Bake for 15–18 minutes until deep golden on top and crisp at the edges. Cool before removing from molds.
- Step 9: Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm. Serve cooled.

Pro Tips for the Best Buttery Palets Bretons
Keep these in mind:
- Refrigerating the dough helps to achieve the right texture.
- Use a round cutter for uniform cookie shapes.
- Flaky sea salt adds a nice touch to the final flavor.
- For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding citrus zest or spices to the dough.
Best Ways to Serve Buttery Palets Bretons
These delightful cookies are perfect on their own but can be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. You can also use Palets Bretons as a base for an elegant dessert by layering them with whipped cream and fresh berries. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling melted chocolate over the top.

How to Store and Reheat Buttery Palets Bretons
To keep your Buttery Palets Bretons fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, making them a great option for meal prep. If you have leftover cookies, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buttery Palets Bretons
What’s the secret to perfect Buttery Palets Bretons?
The secret lies in the butter! Using high-quality butter enhances flavor and texture, making your French butter cookies truly irresistible. Learn more about the importance of quality ingredients.
Can I make Buttery Palets Bretons ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Buttery Palets Bretons?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and don’t skip the chilling step, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
Variations of Buttery Palets Bretons You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Add zest from lemon or orange for a citrus twist, or incorporate chopped chocolate or nuts for added texture. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and enjoy! Check out more delicious variations.
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Buttery Palets Bretons: 5 Irresistible Tips to Savor
- Total Time: 1 hour 18 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery Palets Bretons are traditional French shortbread cookies, rich and crumbly with crisp edges and a soft center.
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
- Cream together softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy using an electric mixer (2–3 minutes).
- Add three egg yolks (one at a time), beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Slowly mix into the wet mixture just until a dough forms.
- Flatten dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease ring molds if using.
- Roll dough to 1/2 inch thick. Cut discs using a round cutter and place in molds or on the baking sheet.
- Beat the reserved egg yolk with a splash of milk or water. Brush over cookie tops and create crosshatch marks using a fork.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until deep golden on top and crisp at the edges. Cool before removing from molds.
- Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm. Serve cooled.
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough helps to achieve the right texture.
- Use a round cutter for uniform cookie shapes.
- Flaky sea salt adds a nice touch to the final flavor.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg






