Looking for a delicious twist on a classic cookie? This Earl Grey cookies recipe combines the buttery goodness of traditional cookies with the fragrant, citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea. These tea-infused treats are perfect for pairing with your afternoon tea or coffee and will surely impress your guests with their sophisticated flavor.
Want more tea-inspired recipes? Check out our Chai-Spiced Pumpkin Bread for another delightful baking adventure.
Ingredients for the Best Earl Grey Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves (finely crushed) – Learn how to choose premium Earl Grey tea.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, try using double bergamot Earl Grey tea leaves.
How to Make Earl Grey Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies will be soft and tender.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. These add moisture and enhance the flavor.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, crushed Earl Grey tea leaves, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the tea leaves are finely crushed for even flavor distribution.
Need a tip? Here’s how to crush tea leaves perfectly for baking.
5. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
6. Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie. Gently flatten each ball with a fork or your palm.
7. Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey Cookies
- Sophisticated Flavor: The citrusy note from the Earl Grey tea elevates the classic butter cookie.
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk.
- Simple Yet Impressive: Easy to prepare but with a luxurious flavor that makes them stand out.
For more cookie recipes, check out our Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies and Almond Biscotti Recipe!
FAQs About Earl Grey Cookies
1. Can I Use Other Types of Tea?
Yes! You can try chai, lavender, or jasmine tea for exciting flavor variations. Each type of tea will bring its own unique aroma and taste to the cookies.
2. How Should I Store These Cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Definitely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months before baking. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for easier handling.
4. What’s the Best Way to Crush Earl Grey Tea Leaves?
For the best results, use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to finely crush the tea leaves. This ensures the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
5. Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for optimal texture.
6. Can I Add a Glaze to These Cookies?
Absolutely! A light lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice would complement the Earl Grey flavor beautifully.
7. What Other Flavor Enhancements Can I Try?
Consider adding a hint of cardamom or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra layer of complexity. You can also dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
8. Are These Cookies Suitable for Gifting?
Yes, these cookies make an excellent homemade gift. Pack them in a decorative tin or wrap them in clear cellophane with a pretty ribbon for a thoughtful and tasty present.
Conclusion
These Earl Grey cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic butter cookie, combining rich buttery goodness with the aromatic essence of tea. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea party or just craving a special homemade treat, these cookies are sure to impress. So why not give them a try today? You might just discover your new favorite cookie recipe!
Want more creative baking ideas? Explore our Baking Tips & Tricks section to elevate your baking game!
For additional recipes, you can visit our recipe index or try something refreshing like our Lemon Blueberry Muffins for a burst of fruity flavor