There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies mingling with the delicate fragrance of tea. Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are a perfect example—a simple yet sophisticated treat that elevates any tea time or dessert spread. Infused with the subtle citrusy notes of bergamot from Earl Grey tea, these cookies combine buttery richness with delicate floral flavors, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
For many, shortbread is a nostalgic comfort food, but adding Earl Grey transforms it into a refined, modern delicacy. They’re crisp at the edges, tender in the middle, and perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with a lingering hint of tea that makes them utterly addictive. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, gifting them, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, these cookies bring elegance and warmth in every bite.
Recipe Overview
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender cookies infused with the fragrant essence of Earl Grey tea. With a crisp texture and delicate tea flavor, they are ideal for pairing with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. Simple to make and elegant to serve, they are perfect for tea parties, gifts, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to create these charming cookies, along with tips for perfect results.
Ingredients
- 10 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup icing sugar
- 1 teaspoon Earl Grey extract (or vanilla extract for a milder flavor)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons finely ground Earl Grey leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a food processor, combine the butter, icing sugar, flour, salt, Earl Grey leaves, and extract. Pulse until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overprocess—the dough should just come together.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a stronger tea flavor, gently grind the Earl Grey leaves before adding them to the dough.
2. Shape and Chill
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each 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 dough firm up, making it easier to slice and bake.
3. Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
4. Slice the Dough
Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled dough into pieces about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Try to make them uniform so they bake evenly.
5. Bake the Cookies
Place the slices on the lined baking sheet, leaving at least an inch between each cookie to allow for slight spreading. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the bottoms are just barely golden.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the first batch to gauge exact baking time, as ovens can vary.
6. Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. This step is essential for setting the delicate texture of shortbread. Once cooled, the cookies are ready to enjoy or package as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Flavor Twists
- Add a touch of lemon zest or orange zest to complement the bergamot in the Earl Grey.
- For a chocolatey variation, dip one end of each cookie in melted dark chocolate once cooled.
2. Texture Enhancements
- Sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch.
- Experiment with almond flour for a slightly nutty flavor and softer texture.
3. Make Ahead
- Dough can be chilled for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Slice and bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time if frozen.
4. Pairings
- Perfect with a cup of Earl Grey tea to intensify the flavor.
- Also pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a mild herbal tea.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange on a tea tray for a sophisticated presentation.
- Serve alongside scones, clotted cream, and jam for a full afternoon tea experience.
- Package in decorative boxes or tins for gifts—they hold up well and taste just as delightful the next day.
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they are an experience. With buttery richness and a subtle tea aroma, they elevate any tea time, gathering, or casual snack into something special. Easy to prepare, visually elegant, and incredibly flavorful, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. One bite, and you’ll appreciate the delicate harmony of buttery shortbread and fragrant Earl Grey that makes them so irresistible.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, gifting them to loved ones, or adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table, these cookies are sure to impress.
FAQs
1. Can I use vanilla extract instead of Earl Grey extract?
Yes, it will create a milder, classic shortbread flavor while keeping the buttery texture.
2. How do I get a stronger tea flavor?
Finely grind the Earl Grey leaves before adding them to the dough or increase the extract slightly.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, keeping the ratios the same.
4. Can I store the baked cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
5. Can I add chocolate or nuts?
Absolutely! Drizzle with chocolate, or mix in finely chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and infused with fragrant tea flavor. Perfect for tea time, gifts, or an elegant sweet treat anyone will love.
