If you adore the fragrant, citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea and the buttery richness of classic shortbread, then this Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Each cookie carries the subtle, aromatic essence of bergamot-infused tea leaves, perfectly nestled in a tender, crumbly texture that simply melts in your mouth. It’s a delightful treat that feels sophisticated yet wonderfully homey—a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for afternoon tea, a cozy snack, or to impress guests with a touch of elegant flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity and straightforward ingredients, each chosen to bring out the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From creamy butter that ensures melt-in-your-mouth softness to the finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves that provide a signature zing, every element plays a crucial part in crafting these irresistible cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base essential for the shortbread’s delicate crumb.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Adds smooth sweetness and contributes to that tender texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor with a warm, inviting depth.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structure of the cookies, balancing softness with just enough bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Elevates the sweetness and intensifies the Earl Grey’s subtle notes.
- Finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (2 tablespoons): The star ingredient delivering fragrant bergamot flavor throughout each cookie.
How to Make Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter together with powdered sugar until the mixture turns light, airy, and fluffy—this usually takes around 2 to 3 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is vital for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture and ensuring your cookies have the perfect tenderness.
Step 2: Incorporate Vanilla Extract
Once your butter and sugar are beautifully creamed, add the vanilla extract. This injects a lovely warmth that rounds out the flavor profile and harmonizes with the distinctive spiced notes of the Earl Grey tea leaves.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. It’s important the tea leaves are finely ground to avoid any bitter bites and ensure the flavor is evenly dispersed. Gradually add this dry mixture into your butter blend, mixing gently until a soft dough forms—don’t overwork it or the cookies might turn tough.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling step firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helping the cookies keep their shape while baking.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare
Before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Proper preparation here ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Remove the chilled dough logs from the fridge and slice them into thin rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Place the slices on the baking sheets with about 1 inch space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn a delicate golden color.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for roughly 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to add a little extra flair, a light drizzle of vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract gives the perfect glossy finish and a touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a pinch of finely ground tea leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant look. Edible flowers like violet petals or delicate citrus zest curls also complement the Earl Grey flavor beautifully and make your cookies truly eye-catching.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea or even a creamy chai latte to echo the spicy notes. For a rich contrast, serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon curd can take the experience to a new level of indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a tiered platter for an afternoon tea party or wrap a stack tied with a pretty ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift. You might also sandwich two cookies with a layer of lemon-infused buttercream or lavender honey for an extra special twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your shortbread cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly crisp and flavorful for up to a week, making them a brilliant make-ahead treat for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the dough ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, slice, and bake as instructed for fresh cookies anytime.
Reheating
Shortbread is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to refresh slightly stale cookies, warm them in a low oven for a few minutes to bring back that delightful crumbly texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft or chewy.
FAQs
Can I use loose leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?
Absolutely! Loose leaf Earl Grey tea actually works better for this recipe, as you can grind the leaves finely to infuse maximum flavor without adding bitterness that whole leaves might cause.
What can I substitute if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can make your own powdered sugar by blitzing granulated sugar in a blender until superfine. However, powdered sugar contributes to a softer texture, so it’s best not to replace it with regular sugar directly.
Are there vegan options for this Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe?
Sure! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or vegan butter alternative. Keep in mind texture and flavor might shift slightly, but the Earl Grey infusion will still shine through beautifully.
How finely should I grind the Earl Grey tea leaves?
Grinding the tea leaves to a fine, almost powdery consistency is key for even flavor and to prevent any tough or bitter bits in the shortbread. Use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle for best results.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
With the right gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, you can definitely transform this recipe. Just be sure to choose a blend designed for baking to maintain the delicate crumb of the shortbread.
Final Thoughts
This Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe is truly one of those delightful discoveries that bridges classic comfort with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re baking for yourself, for friends, or as a charming gift, these cookies never fail to impress with their tender texture and subtle tea-infused flavor. Give them a try—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!
Print
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicate and buttery Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies infused with the subtle citrusy aroma of Earl Grey tea leaves. These classic shortbread cookies offer a perfect balance of rich butteriness and fragrant tea flavor, ideal for afternoon tea or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (from about 3 tea bags)
Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes to achieve a smooth texture.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves to evenly distribute the tea flavor.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring not to overwork the dough.
- Shape and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place slices 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are done.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to add extra sweetness.
Notes
- For finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves, process dry tea bags in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle until powdery.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
- Do not overbake; cookies should be lightly golden at the edges and pale in the center for the best texture.
- Optional glaze can be customized by adding lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
