There’s something undeniably charming about a cookie that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea. Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are the epitome of sophistication in a bite-sized form. Infused with the subtle floral and citrus notes of Earl Grey tea, these delicate cookies bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Unlike everyday cookies, their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the fragrant tea flavor makes them a perfect companion for afternoon tea, coffee breaks, or gifting to friends and family.
The first time I tried baking with Earl Grey, I was amazed at how its bergamot aroma elevated a simple shortbread. Unlike overpowering chocolate or overly sweet treats, these cookies feel light, refined, and special. They’re ideal for those moments when you want something homemade yet luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have.
Whether you’re hosting a tea party, looking for a unique dessert, or simply craving a comforting snack, these shortbread cookies are a perfect choice.
Recipe Overview
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender cookies flavored with fine Earl Grey tea leaves. Slightly crisp on the edges and soft in the center, they’re lightly sweetened, delicately aromatic, and ideal for pairing with tea or coffee. These cookies are elegant, easy to make, and perfect for gifting or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to making these fragrant and irresistible cookies, along with tips for best results.
Ingredients
- 10 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup icing sugar
- 1 teaspoon Earl Grey extract (or vanilla extract as a mild alternative)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons fine Earl Grey leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a food processor, combine butter, icing sugar, flour, salt, Earl Grey leaves, and extract. Pulse until the ingredients form a cohesive dough.
Tip: Use finely ground Earl Grey leaves to ensure the cookies are smooth and evenly flavored. If your leaves are coarse, consider crushing them lightly with a mortar and pestle.
2. Shape and Chill
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the buttery texture.
3. Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
4. Slice the Dough
Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled dough into pieces about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least an inch of space between them.
Tip: For cleaner edges, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking.
5. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies until the bottoms are barely golden, approximately 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as shortbread can brown quickly and overbaking will make them lose their tender texture.
6. Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely. The cookies firm up slightly as they cool, resulting in a perfectly delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tip: Store in an airtight container to preserve their crispness and aroma.
Baking Tips & Variations
1. Tea Variations
While Earl Grey is classic, you can experiment with other teas like green tea, chamomile, or chai for unique flavors. Adjust the tea quantity to avoid overpowering the butter’s richness.
2. Flavor Enhancements
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to complement the bergamot notes in Earl Grey.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
- Sprinkle lightly with turbinado sugar before baking for a subtle crunch.
3. Gluten-Free Option
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten. Shortbread naturally holds together well, so minimal adjustment is needed.
4. Make Ahead & Storage
- Refrigeration: Dough can be prepared and chilled for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: Wrap unbaked logs in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to baking time.
5. Serving Ideas
Pair these cookies with:
- A warm cup of Earl Grey tea for a classic match.
- Coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Include in a gift box with other homemade baked goods for an elegant present.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
These cookies maintain their delicate texture when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Serving suggestions:
- Arrange on a decorative platter for tea parties or gatherings.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit, scones, or biscuits for a complete afternoon tea experience.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or fruit preserves for a luxurious treat.
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that elevates any tea or coffee break. With their buttery base, delicate crumb, and fragrant tea flavor, they’re as delightful to make as they are to eat. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying solo with your favorite brew, these cookies bring sophistication to everyday moments.
Baking with Earl Grey introduces a refined, aromatic note that sets these cookies apart from ordinary shortbread. With a few easy steps, you can create a batch that’s tender, buttery, and lightly infused with bergamot—cookies that your friends and family will remember long after the last bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use vanilla instead of Earl Grey extract?
Yes! Vanilla gives a classic, milder flavor if you prefer something less tea-forward.
2. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough before slicing ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and follow the same instructions.
4. Can I add chocolate or other flavors?
Yes! A drizzle of melted chocolate, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of sugar can enhance the flavor beautifully.
5. How should I store them?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are buttery, delicate, and infused with fragrant tea leaves. Perfect for tea time, gifting, or an elegant homemade treat.
