Langues de Chat Cookies

Name: Langues de Chat Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 40 cookies
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 125 g unsalted butter (softened); 125 g granulated sugar; 125 g all-purpose flour (sifted); 3 large egg whites (room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

25 min 40 cookies Easy

All Recipes

Delicate and crisp, Langues de Chat are classic French butter cookies perfect for tea time or as a light dessert.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Langues de Chat, translating to 'cat tongues', are thin, crisp cookies with a delicate buttery flavour. They are named for their long, slender shape reminiscent of a cat's tongue. These cookies are a beloved treat in France, often served alongside coffee or tea. These cookies are made with simple ingredients, including butter, sugar, flour, and egg whites. Their light texture and mild sweetness make them irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, Langues de Chat are both elegant and easy to make, offering a taste of French patisserie in your own home.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the cookies for even cooking.

Cream butter and sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Pro tip: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.

Add egg whites

Gradually add the egg whites to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.

Pro tip: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Mix in flour

Fold in the sifted flour and vanilla extract (if using) until just combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix to maintain a light texture.

Pipe the cookies

Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a plain round nozzle. Pipe 5 cm (2 inch) long strips onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart.

Pro tip: Use consistent pressure to ensure uniform cookies.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Pro tip: Watch closely as they can brown quickly.

Cool

Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling on the baking sheet helps them set without breaking.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Pipe the batter evenly for uniform cookies.
Keep a close eye on baking time to prevent over-browning.
Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Langues de Chat cookies?

Langues de Chat are thin, crisp butter cookies originating from France, known for their delicate texture and subtle sweetness.

How long do Langues de Chat cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to a week.

Can I flavour Langues de Chat cookies?

Yes, you can add lemon zest or vanilla extract to the batter for additional flavour.

What is the texture of Langues de Chat?

These cookies are crisp and delicate with a light, airy texture.

How are Langues de Chat typically served?

They are often served with tea or coffee and can also accompany desserts like ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

Langues de Chat are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They make a delightful accompaniment to ice cream or can be dipped in chocolate for a decadent treat. For a flavour twist, consider adding some lemon zest or vanilla extract to the batter. These cookies are versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences.