Breton Butter Cookies à la Pierre Hermé – A Fragrant Christmas Delight

Fill your home with the warm, festive aroma of these classic Breton butter cookies inspired by Pierre Hermé. Rich, buttery, and subtly citrusy from fresh orange zest, they are the perfect treat for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons.

🕒 Prep Time & Portions

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Bake Time: 12 minutes
Yield: About 40–45 cookies (depending on slice thickness)

📝 Ingredients

300 g all-purpose flour
220 g unsalted butter, room temperature
200 g granulated sugar
5 egg yolks
Zest of 1 orange
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream Butter, Sugar & Orange Zest:
- Using a mixer, beat the butter, orange zest, and sugar until most of the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is pale and creamy.
Add Egg Yolks:
- Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. Continue mixing for about 1 minute after the last yolk is incorporated.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or by hand, mixing only until combined. Avoid overworking the dough.
Shape and Chill:
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a log about 3–4 cm in diameter.
- Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Slice and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Slice the chilled dough logs into ½ cm thick rounds.
- Place each slice into a muffin paper cup to help keep its round shape during baking.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Cool and Store:
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container.

💡 Tips & Variations

For a deeper citrus flavor, add 1 tsp of orange flower water to the dough.
Swap orange zest for lemon zest for a different but equally bright flavor.
Use these cookies to accompany tea, coffee, or a glass of dessert wine during festive celebrations.

🧾 Final Thoughts

These Breton butter cookies capture the essence of Christmas with every bite — rich, buttery, and delicately perfumed with orange. Their simple elegance and melt-in-the-mouth texture make them a timeless classic that will fill your home with festive cheer.