Sablé Parisien Recipe
History and Background
The Sablé Parisien, a classic French pastry, finds its origins in the region of Normandy, France. Traditionally prepared as a buttery shortbread cookie, this delightful treat was named after the town of Sablé-sur-Sarthe where it originated in the 1670s. The word "sablé" translates to "sandy" in French, referring to the crumbly texture that defines these cookies. As with many French delicacies, the Sablé Parisien gained its claim to fame in the kitchens of Paris and gradually earned a coveted spot amongst dessert tables worldwide.
Ingredients
- Butter - 250g, unsalted and at room temperature
- Powdered sugar - 100g
- Egg yolks - 2, large
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour - 300g
- Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
Preparation
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
Begin by creaming the butter in a large mixing bowl until it becomes smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and continue to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer. Gradually add the egg yolks, one at a time, ensuring that each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until uniformly combined.
Step 2: Adding Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour and salt. Gently add this to the butter mixture, folding in to combine and achieve a smooth dough. Avoid overmixing to maintain the tender, crumbly texture of the sable.
Step 3: Shaping the Dough
Lightly flour your hands and work surface, then gently roll the dough into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This resting period is crucial as it helps the butter firm up and allows the flavors to meld.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature throughout the baking process.
Step 5: Slicing and Baking
Unwrap the dough and place it onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are well spaced to prevent them from sticking together as they bake.
Bake the Sablé Parisien in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Be sure to set a timer to prevent overbaking. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoying Sablé Parisien
The Sablé Parisien is best enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee as a delicate, buttery complement to your beverage of choice. Serve these cookies at elegant gatherings or as an everyday treat for a taste of French baking tradition. Additionally, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, preserving their fresh and crumbly texture.