Black and White Cookies
- felichiccuisine
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Elegant Sablés for a Festive Christmas. The beauty of black and white cookies lies in their simplicity and sophistication.
Black and white cookies, or Sablés, are one of my favorite treats to make at home. The chocolate and vanilla dough come together in a soft, buttery cookie that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. They look fancy, but honestly, they’re easy to bake and a real crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a cookie that’s simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing, these black and white Sablés are a must this holiday season.
The Charm of Black and White Cookies
The beauty of black and white cookies lies in their simplicity and sophistication. Originating in France, these buttery treats have a tender, crumbly texture that practically melts in your mouth.
The subtle aroma of fresh orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that perfectly balances the rich cocoa and sweet aroma vanilla dough. Each bite is a little moment of indulgence: soft, flavorful, and fragrant. These delicious biscuits bring a touch of elegance to any table.
The Origin of This Recipe
Black and white cookies, or sablés, have a long-standing history in French baking. The word “sablé” actually means “sandy” in French, referring to the cookie’s crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Traditionally made during festive occasions, these cookies are prized for their buttery richness and the artistry involved in creating their iconic black-and-white layers.
For another delicious option, you could try:
Why They’re Special at Christmas
Christmas is always about warmth, joy, and the aromas that fill the home. In our family, these cookies have become a true tradition.
Christmas has a way of turning even the simplest recipes into precious moments, and these cookies are no exception. The contrast between cocoa and vanilla adds a festive touch to the table, while the delicate flavors of butter, orange, and cocoa bring back the classic scents of winter.
Every tray that comes out of the oven carries with it joy, familiarity, and that comforting feeling of “home,” which makes this dessert an essential part of our Christmas traditions.
This recipe is especially dear to me because it’s my eldest daughter’s favorite. She has carried on the tradition and prepares them every year, carefully following each step to make the cookies as perfect as possible. Every bite holds memories, laughter, and a touch of our Christmas spirit.
For another delicious option, you could try: Vanilla Crescent Cookies -Vanillekipferl
Are They Easy to Make?
While these cookies may look fancy, they are surprisingly easy to prepare with a little patience and attention to detail. The key is to keep your dough at the right consistency, chill it well, and handle it gently. Even beginner bakers can achieve beautiful results with this step-by-step guide.
The Easiest Way to Make Sablé Cookies
Prepare the Brushing Mixture
✔ In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the whipping cream.
✔ Set aside. This will help the dough layers stick together beautifully.
Make the Dough
✔ In a large bowl, cream the butter, salt, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
✔ Add the egg, vanilla sugar, and orange zest. Mix thoroughly.
✔ Gradually fold in the sifted flour until the dough just comes together.
✔ Using a fork or your fingertips, rub the mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
Divide and Flavor
✔ Divide the dough in half.
✔ Mix the cocoa powder into one half until fully incorporated.
✔ Wrap each portion in parchment paper and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Create the Wheel Cookies
✔ Roll one portion into a cylinder about 2 cm (1 inch) in diameter.
✔ Roll the other portion into a 0.5 cm thick rectangle, brush with the egg-cream mixture, and wrap around the cylinder.
✔ Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Create the Spiral Cookies
✔ Roll out each dough portion into rectangles about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick.
✔ Lightly brush the vanilla dough with the egg-cream mixture.
✔ Place the cocoa dough rectangle on top and gently press together.
✔ Roll the layered dough into a tight log, wrap in baking paper, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Bake the Cookies
✔ Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment (baking) paper.
✔ Slice the logs into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) rounds. Place on the sheet with space in between.
✔ Bake for about 12 minutes, until the vanilla dough turns light golden brown.
✔ Transfer carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Black and White Cookies
Chill the dough: This makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.
Use parchment or wax paper: Rolling between sheets prevents sticking and keeps layers clean.
Sharp knife: Slice the logs cleanly to keep the cookie rounds intact.
Don’t overbake: The cookies should be soft and tender, not dry.
Optional: Dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Love this recipe? Please leave a comment and star rating. ★★★★★ Your feedback, suggestions, and adaptations are very helpful to other bakers!
Recipe
Enjoy!
“The measure of achievement is not winning awards. It's doing something that you appreciate, something you believe is worthwhile."― Julia Child
Have you tried making this Black and White Cookies? I'd love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts and any creative twists you added to the recipe in the comments below. Or, tag me on Instagram (@FeliChic'Cuisine) when you post your recipe creations. Let's inspire each other. Thank You!
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