Langue de Chat, these delicate, buttery cookies are as delightful to eat as they are to look at. Their name, meaning “cat’s tongue” in French, perfectly captures their thin, oblong shape. With a crisp, golden edge and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, Langue de Chat cookies are a sophisticated treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring perfect results every time. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on this delightful baking journey together!
Langue de Chat Ingredients: You Probably Have Them Already!
Don’t be intimidated by the fancy French name, the ingredient list for Langue de Chat is surprisingly simple and likely already stocked in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour, sifted
Optional ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (for a chocolate twist)
- 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (to enhance the chocolate flavor)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Piping bag fitted with a round tip (or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off)
Let’s Bake! Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Langue de Chat:
- Cream Together Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Flavor: Beat in the vanilla extract and egg white until well combined. Pro Tip: Make sure your egg white is at room temperature for optimal incorporation.
- Gently Fold in Flour: Gradually add the sifted flour to the wet ingredients, gently folding it in with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies tough.
- Pipe & Bake: Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 2-inch long strips of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Don’t have a piping bag? No worries! Simply snip off a corner of a ziplock bag for a makeshift piping solution.
- The Magic Happens: Bake for 8-10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
- Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before serving. They will crisp up as they cool.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Sifting is Key: Sifting your powdered sugar and flour ensures a light and airy cookie texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking, as they can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly.
- Storage: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
FAQs About Langue de Chat Cookies:
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Langue de Chat cookies can be baked a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the dough?
A: Get creative! This recipe is a wonderful base for other flavors. Try adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/4 teaspoon of espresso powder for a decadent chocolate variation.
Elevate Your Cookie Platter:
These elegant cookies deserve an equally impressive presentation! Arrange them on a decorative platter for a simple yet sophisticated treat. They’re perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee or as a sweet ending to a delicious meal.
Piping Langue de Chat Batter
Freshly Baked Langue de Chat Cookies
There you have it – everything you need to create a batch of these delightful, melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Give the recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking prowess!
Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience making these delicate cookies.
Happy baking! And if you’re looking to expand your cookie repertoire, check out our recipe for Viennese Whirls, another delicious and visually appealing treat!
