Name: Buttery Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies for Cozy Tea Moments
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1/2 cup Icing Sugar (Avoid granulated sugar); 1 teaspoon Earl Grey Extract (Substitute with vanilla extract if desired); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Sifted); 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt; 2 tablespoons Earl Grey Tea Leaves (Prefer fine leaves or ground); 1 teaspoon Lavender Extract (For Earl Grey Lavender Shortbread); 1 tablespoon Lemon or Orange Zest (For Citrus Earl Grey cookies); 1 cup Lady Grey Tea (Substitute for a milder flavor)

As I watched the sunlight dance through the kitchen window, the thought of baking a batch of Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies filled me with warmth. These buttery tea cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a simple recipe that anyone can master, proving that you don’t need to be a professional baker to create something special. With the delightful aroma that wafts through your home, you’ll find that these cookies are ideal for an afternoon tea break or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Plus, the versatility of Earl Grey allows for variations like a refreshing citrus twist or a fragrant lavender infusion. Which version will you try first?

Why are Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies irresistible?

Buttery Delight: The rich, buttery flavor melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.
Aromatic Bliss: Infused with Earl Grey, each bite carries fragrant notes of bergamot and tea that elevate your snacking experience.
Quick Baking: This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and time—perfect for busy days!
Versatile Options: Personalize your cookies with variations like Earl Grey Lavender Shortbread or add zest for a refreshing twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These sophisticated cookies are a hit at gatherings, making them a thoughtful gift or a delightful addition to your tea time.

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture for a tender cookie; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens the cookie while ensuring a soft texture; avoid granulated sugar as it can create a crisper cookie.
Earl Grey Extract – Enhances the tea flavor in the cookie; can substitute with vanilla extract for a creamy twist.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure for the cookie; should be sifted for an even texture.
Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Earl Grey Tea Leaves – Imparts the signature tea flavor; prefer fine leaves, or grind loose tea leaves to a powder for smoother texture.

For Delicious Variations

Lavender Extract – Use for Earl Grey Lavender Shortbread; brings floral notes that complement the tea beautifully.
Lemon or Orange Zest – Adds a refreshing twist for Citrus Earl Grey cookies; just a tablespoon enhances the flavor.
Lady Grey Tea – Use as a substitute for a milder, citrusy alternative; perfect for those who love a softer flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a food processor, combine room-temperature unsalted butter, icing sugar, all-purpose flour, sea salt, ground Earl Grey tea leaves, and Earl Grey extract. Pulse the mixture until a soft dough forms, typically 1-2 minutes. The dough should easily hold together and not stick to the sides of the bowl, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 2: Chill Dough
Divide the dough into two logs, each 1½ to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for the Earl Grey shortbread cookies to maintain their shape while baking and helps develop the flavors, making the wait worthwhile.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly right from the start. As the oven warms, prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cookies once baked.

Step 4: Slice and Bake
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge and carefully unwrap it. With a sharp knife, cut the logs into ¼ to ½ inch thick slices, keeping them uniform for even baking. Space the slices at least an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Step 5: Cooling
Once baked, remove the Earl Grey shortbread cookies from the oven and allow them to sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up. Then, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack. This step helps retain their delicate crumb while they cool completely, ready for you to enjoy with your favorite tea.

What to Serve with Buttery Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

As you savor each buttery bite of these delightful cookies, envision the perfect pairings that can enhance your cozy tea moments.

Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai beautifully complement the aromatic Earl Grey, creating a comforting treat.
Fresh Berries: A burst of fruity sweetness from strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness. Their vibrant colors also make for a beautiful presentation.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream drizzled over the cookies adds a luscious touch, making the tea break even more indulgent.
Lemon Zest Icing: A zingy lemon glaze can elevate the cookies, enhancing their flavor profile while bringing a lovely brightness.
Earl Grey Tea: Enjoy the cookies with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea—the perfect way to deepen the tea experience!
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft, creamy cheeses pairs wonderfully with the cookies, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. A hint of honey drizzled over the cheese will take it to the next level.
Lavender Lemonade: This refreshing drink echoes the floral notes of the cookies, offering a lovely pairing for a sunny afternoon.
Dark Chocolate: Rich, dark chocolate dipped on one side adds a luxurious finish to each cookie, creating an unforgettable taste sensation.
Biscuits: A selection of different tea biscuits can create a charming dessert spread, inviting guests to sample and enjoy. A variety of flavors will keep the gathering interesting!

Storage Tips for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: If you want to keep your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies for an extended period, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive the cookies after freezing, heat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will restore their melt-in-your-mouth freshness.

Expert Tips for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Chill the Dough: Chilling is essential! This step prevents the cookies from spreading and ensures they hold their shape beautifully during baking.

Use Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper rather than greasing it. This helps maintain the cookies’ shape and prevents sticking.

Mind the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking; these Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies should remain pale with just lightly golden bottoms to keep their tender texture.

Check Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature. Too warm or cold can affect the cookie’s texture and flavor.

Sift the Flour: Sifting flour helps create a lighter, tender cookie. It prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution in the dough.

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap the formed logs tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. If you prefer, the unbaked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just slice them and place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. With this make-ahead option, you can savor the deliciousness of these cookies without the last-minute rush!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these variations to make your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies uniquely yours!

Earl Grey Lavender: Swap in lavender-infused Earl Grey tea for a fragrant twist. Add a touch of lavender extract for that extra floral note.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor with a refreshing citrus kick. It’s like sunshine in every bite!
Lady Grey Substitute: Use Lady Grey tea for a milder, citrusy flavor. This swap is perfect for those who prefer a softer tea profile.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies. This adds a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the tea flavors.
Nutty Touch: Mix in finely chopped nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and richness. The crunch complements the buttery cookies delightfully.
Honey Sweetness: Replace icing sugar with honey for a natural sweetness. Just be aware that this may alter the dough’s consistency, so adjust flour as needed.
Herbal Infusion: Try adding a teaspoon of fresh rosemary or thyme for an unexpected herbal flavor that surprises your taste buds.
Almond Extract: Swap the Earl Grey extract for almond extract to create a delicious variation that offers a nutty aroma alongside the buttery goodness.

If you find yourself wanting more inspiration, consider trying these delightful cookie variations like Pumpkin Pie Cookies or checking out the seasonal charm of Winter Wonderland Cookies. Each option offers a unique twist to sweeten your baking adventures!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of Earl Grey tea leaves should I use?
Opt for fine Earl Grey tea leaves or grind loose tea leaves into a powder for a smoother texture in your cookies. This ensures each cookie is infused with the aromatic flavors that make these treats so special.

How should I store my Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For prolonged freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just let them come back to room temperature before indulging to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze my Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, freeze your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge and warm slightly in the oven to bring back their delightful texture.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies are spreading excessively, it could be due to the butter being too warm or not chilling the dough long enough before baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour and ensure the butter is at room temperature, not melted.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
These cookies contain dairy from the butter, so if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, I recommend substituting with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, they contain gluten from the all-purpose flour; however, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend if needed.

Can I make variations of Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Very! You can easily customize your cookies by adding a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist or infusing them with lavender extract for an Earl Grey Lavender Shortbread version. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also offer a unique touch to your cookies.