Name: Delightful Grey Shortbread Cookies for Tea Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (At room temperature); 1/2 cup Icing Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar); 1 tsp Earl Grey Extract (Can substitute with vanilla extract); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Avoid reducing); 1/4 tsp Sea Salt (Fine salt preferred); 1 tbsp Earl Grey Tea Leaves (Fine leaves preferred, grind if loose)

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As I stood by the oven, the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through my kitchen, evoking memories of cozy afternoons spent savoring tea and laughter with friends. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies—a delightful treat that perfectly marries the traditional buttery texture with the unique flavors of aromatic Earl Grey tea. What makes these cookies even more special is their quick prep time and the way they effortlessly elevate any gathering, whether as an elegant addition to tea time or a heartfelt homemade gift. With endless variations like Citrus Earl Grey and Earl Grey Lavender to explore, I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. Ready to dive into a world of sweet nostalgia? Let’s get baking!

Why Are Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies a Must-Try?

Delightful flavors: The infusion of Earl Grey tea lends a unique aroma that makes these cookies extraordinary.
Quick prep time: In just four easy steps, you’ll have these buttery delights ready for any occasion.
Versatile variations: Change things up with exciting twists like Citrus Earl Grey or Earl Grey Lavender for a fragrant gift.
Perfect for sharing: Whether celebrating a special moment or enjoying a simple afternoon tea, these cookies are sure to impress.
Light and satisfying: At only 53 calories each, they provide a guilt-free indulgence that’s hard to resist!

Grey Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

• Discover the simplicity behind these flavorful treats!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and structure; ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Icing Sugar – Contributes sweetness for a soft texture without creaming; granulated sugar can be used but results in a crispier cookie.
Earl Grey Extract – Adds distinct tea flavor; can be substituted with vanilla extract for a creamy variant.
All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure; be careful not to reduce the flour to avoid flat cookies.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; use fine salt for even distribution.
Earl Grey Tea Leaves – Provides the signature flavor; fine leaves work best; if using loose leaves, grind them to prevent texture issues.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Mix Dough
In a food processor, combine room temperature unsalted butter, icing sugar, all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and the aromatic Earl Grey tea leaves. Pulse until the mixture forms a soft dough, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The blend should resemble coarse crumbs initially, then smoothly come together, creating a delightful aroma that signals it’s ready.

Step 2: Shape and Chill
Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and gently knead it into a log shape about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap to keep its form, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for your Grey Shortbread Cookies to maintain their shape during baking, so you’re looking for a firm but malleable texture.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Once the dough has chilled, unwrap it and slice the logs into ¼ to ½ inch thick rounds, placing them at least an inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes; the bottoms should be barely golden, preserving that soft texture interior typical of shortbread.

Step 4: Cool
Once baked, carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is essential as it allows the residual heat to finish cooking the centers, giving you those melt-in-your-mouth Grey Shortbread Cookies. Let them sit for around 20 minutes before serving, ensuring they are perfectly set and ready to enjoy alongside your favorite tea.

How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate or want to keep them extra fresh, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough logs for up to 3 months. Simply slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, allow frozen baked cookies to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.

Grey Shortbread Cookies Variations

Ready to let your creativity shine with these delicious cookies? Here are some delightful twists to elevate your Earl Grey Shortbread experience!

Earl Grey Lavender: Substitute with Earl Grey Lavender tea and add a splash of lavender extract for a fragrant, floral enhancement. The combination creates a serene and calming flavor profile perfect for unwinding.
Citrus Earl Grey: Mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange zest for a zesty twist that brightens up the traditional recipe. This vibrant addition contrasts beautifully against the rich buttery background.
Lady Grey: Swap out Earl Grey for Lady Grey tea to introduce a subtle citrus and floral note, giving a lovely twist while retaining that comforting tea aroma.
Chai Spice: Add a blend of your favorite chai spices, such as cinnamon and cardamom, to the dough. This twist will give your cookies a warm, spiced profile that pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of tea.
Chocolate-Dipped: Once baked and cooled, dip the edges of the cookies in melted dark chocolate for a decadent upgrade. The bitterness of the chocolate beautifully complements the tea flavor.
Nutty Addition: Fold in finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that adds depth to every bite.
Matcha Twist: Blend in a teaspoon of matcha powder for an earthy flavor and stunning green color. This is a unique and healthful twist, creating a delightful contrast with the traditional flavours.
Smoky Earl Grey: Incorporate a bit of Lapsang Souchong tea along with your Earl Grey for a unique, smoky taste that adds complexity and intrigue, perfect for adventurous palates.

Feel inspired? With these variations, you can customize your Grey Shortbread Cookies to suit any occasion or taste preference. And while you’re at it, consider trying out delightful options like my Cone Crunch Cookies or shake things up with Flourless Dark Chocolate Cookies. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience as you pair these luscious cookies with complementary flavors and textures.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst, enhancing the cookie’s aroma with a natural sweetness. A light fruit salad can brighten up your tea time.
Creamy Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream creates a dreamy contrast, making each bite even more satisfying. Try it flavored with a hint of vanilla or lemon for a delightful twist.
Earl Grey Tea: Of course, pairing these cookies with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea elevates the experience, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that warms the soul.
Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola, perhaps with almonds and oats, adds a rustic texture that beautifully complements the buttery soft cookie. Enjoy as a snack that satisfies and supports cozy moments.
Dark Chocolate: Rich, melted dark chocolate drizzled over the cookies or served on the side introduces a luxurious depth, making for an indulgent treat. The bitterness of the chocolate balances the cookie’s sweetness perfectly.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, a sparkling lemonade offers bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cookie while keeping things light and uplifting.
Floral Iced Tea: Iced tea infused with hibiscus or chamomile makes an enchanting pairing, echoing floral notes present in the Earl Grey without overwhelming the senses.
Homemade Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or lavender ice cream brings a creamy sweetness that contrasts deliciously with the crumbly texture. Enjoy this as a delightful dessert complemented by the cookie experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance by mixing and shaping it into logs, then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. For even longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked logs for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled or thawed logs into rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet. This method ensures that your cookies maintain their delightful texture and buttery flavor, making them just as delicious as freshly made cookies when it’s time to indulge!

Helpful Tricks for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Chilling Is Key: Ensure you cool the dough for at least one hour; this prevents your cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Parchment Paper Must: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure even baking.

Slice Evenly: For perfect baking, slice your logs evenly into ¼ to ½ inch thick rounds; inconsistency can lead to uneven textures.

Perfect Timing: Keep a watchful eye on baking time; pulling them out as soon as they turn barely golden will preserve that soft center in your Grey Shortbread Cookies.

Dough Flexibility: If you want to prepare ahead, the dough can be stored in the fridge for 24-48 hours or frozen for convenience, giving you fresh cookies anytime!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Earl Grey tea leaves for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting Earl Grey tea leaves, look for high-quality loose leaves rather than tea bags. Fine tea leaves will blend seamlessly into the dough without adding unwanted texture. Avoid leaves that have dark spots or appear stale; fresh leaves should emit a fragrant citrus aroma from the bergamot oil.

How should I store my Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
To maintain their freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigeration can help preserve them for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they are placed away from sunlight to avoid any moisture that could affect their crumbly texture.

Can I freeze the Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough logs for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, slice the logs while frozen and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies spread too much, it may be due to the dough being too warm before baking or not chilling long enough. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before slicing and baking. If you experience this issue again, try chilling the sliced cookies for an additional 15-20 minutes before placing them in the oven.

Are these cookies suitable for people with dietary allergies?
It’s essential to note that these cookies contain dairy and gluten. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using dairy-free butter and a gluten-free flour blend to make them more suitable for different dietary needs. However, always check for potential cross-contamination, especially if preparing for someone with severe allergies.

Can I experiment with flavors when making these shortbread cookies?
Very much! One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. You can create exciting variations such as Citrus Earl Grey by adding a tablespoon of zest from your favorite citrus fruit, or Earl Grey Lavender by substituting Earl Grey tea with Earl Grey Lavender tea. Feel free to explore and find the flavor combinations that speak to you!