Name: Delicious Grey Shortbread Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing.); 1/2 cup Icing Sugar (Adds sweetness and a soft texture.); 1 teaspoon Earl Grey Extract (Enhances the tea flavor.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides essential structure.); 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Earl Grey Tea Leaves (Infuses cookies with unique flavor.)

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As I sat sipping a fragrant cup of Earl Grey, the notion struck me: why not blend that warming aroma into something sweet? Enter my Aromatic Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies—where the delicate essence of tea meets buttery goodness in an easy-to-make treat. These cookies are not just any dessert; they are an elegant addition to your tea gatherings or the perfect homemade gift for those you cherish. With just four simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this delightful recipe that transforms tea time into a cozy celebration. Plus, you have the option to add a fun twist with variations like Citrus Earl Grey or Earl Grey Lavender, making them endlessly adaptable. Now, who’s ready to dive into the bliss of these Grey Shortbread Cookies?

Why Are Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies So Special?

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of butter and tea leaves creates a soft, tender cookie that’s sure to impress. Easy preparation means you need minimal skills to achieve bakery-quality results! Versatility shines with variations like Citrus Earl Grey or Earl Grey Lavender, offering exciting twists to suit every palate. Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea, or box them up to share with friends—these cookies are perfect for gifting. Plus, they’re low in calories, making indulgence guilt-free! Don’t forget to try them alongside a delightful treat like Lemon Blueberry Shortbread or Flourless Dark Cookies for a full dessert spread!

Ingredients for Grey Shortbread Cookies

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing and rich flavor.
• Icing Sugar – Adds sweetness and a soft texture; granulated sugar can be used for a crispier cookie.
• Earl Grey Extract – Enhances the tea flavor; for a creamy twist, substitute with vanilla extract.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure to keep these Grey Shortbread Cookies perfectly formed.
• Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavor; fine sea salt is best for even distribution.
• Earl Grey Tea Leaves – Infuses the cookies with unique flavor; use fine leaves or crushed tea bag contents for smooth texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a food processor, add room temperature unsalted butter, icing sugar, all-purpose flour, sea salt, and finely crushed Earl Grey tea leaves. Pour in the Earl Grey extract, blending everything together until a smooth dough forms. This should take about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture pulls away from the sides and has a slightly sticky feel.

Step 2: Shape the Dough
Once your dough for the Grey Shortbread Cookies is ready, transfer it onto a clean work surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into logs about 1½ to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap to retain their shape and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour; this step is essential to prevent spreading during baking.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking. As you wait, ensure your baking tools are within reach, so you’re ready to slice the chilled logs once the dough firms up.

Step 4: Slice the Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough logs from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into uniform cookies approximately ¼ to ½ inch thick. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each cookie to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—remove the cookies when the bottoms are just lightly golden. This is the perfect doneness to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes Grey Shortbread Cookies irresistible!

Step 6: Let Them Rest
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows them to firm up while retaining their delightful buttery quality. Once cooled, your Grey Shortbread Cookies are ready to be served or stored away for a sweet treat later.

Grey Shortbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Grey Shortbread Cookies to suit your taste buds and occasions with these delightful twists!

Lavender Twist: Use Earl Grey Lavender tea and add a teaspoon of lavender extract for a fragrant bloom.
Citrus Zing: Fold in 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a burst of bright flavor that perfectly complements the tea notes.
Lady Grey Alternative: For a softer, floral touch, swap Earl Grey with Lady Grey tea, bringing a lighter and complex flavor.
Choco-Dipped Delight: After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent treat.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped pistachios or almonds into the dough for an added crunch and flavor dimension.
Spicy Variation: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the tea essence.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten.

For more delicious ideas, try pairing your cookies with a refreshing cup of tea or alongside a delightful treat like Banana Oatmeal Cookies. Whichever variation you choose, these cookies are bound to impress!

What to Serve with Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Elevate your tea time experience with delightful pairings that complement the elegant flavors of these aromatic treats.

Classic English Breakfast Tea: This robust tea perfectly balances the subtlety of the shortbread, creating a comforting duo that warms the heart.
Lemon Curd: The tartness of lemon curd contrasts beautifully with the buttery cookies, adding a refreshing zing to each bite. Spread it generously on cookies or enjoy it on the side for dipping.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a burst of freshness, enhancing the aromatic qualities of the Earl Grey while providing a delightful texture contrast.
Devonshire Cream: The rich, velvety cream offers an indulgent touch, making each cookie taste even more luxurious. Spread a dollop on the cookie for a heavenly taste experience.
Honey Drizzle: A sweet drizzle of honey over the cookies brings out their warmth and adds an extra layer of comfort. The floral notes mingle wonderfully with the tea flavors.
Dark Chocolate: Pair your cookies with a small piece of rich dark chocolate. The bitterness of the chocolate balances the sweetness and creates a divine flavor explosion.
Iced Green Tea Lemonade: This refreshing drink brightens the palate and complements the cookies’ delicate flavors. Serve it over ice for a delightful summer treat while enjoying your cookies.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and sweetness of macaroons create a deliciously different option alongside the shortbread, offering a lovely variety to your dessert platter.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert option, complementing the warm tea flavors while contrasting with the cookie’s crispness.
Sparkling Wine: For a fancy treat, enjoy these cookies with a glass of sparkling wine. The effervescence washes over your palate, making each cookie taste even better.

Helpful Tricks for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill your dough for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading; this ensures perfectly shaped cookies with that beautiful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Parchment Paper Required: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet instead of greasing it. This helps cookies keep their shape and prevents them from sticking.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when the bottoms are lightly golden to achieve the best texture for your Grey Shortbread Cookies.
Slicing Tips: Use a sharp, thin knife for slicing, and try to keep the thickness consistent for even baking. Aim for slices about ¼ to ½ inch thick.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add citrus zest or lavender for a fun twist on these classic Grey Shortbread Cookies; enjoy experimenting!

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance—just roll it into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This chilling step not only helps shape the cookies but also enhances the flavor as it sits. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled logs into ¼ to ½ inch thick cookies, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and pop them into a preheated oven. This way, you’ll serve fresh, melt-in-your-mouth Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies, just like if they were made that day!

How to Store and Freeze Grey Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, place the cookies in the fridge, stored in an airtight container, where they can last up to 7 days without losing flavor.

Freezer: Freeze your unbaked cookie logs tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just slice and bake directly from the freezer.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, making your Grey Shortbread Cookies even more enticing!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for this recipe. It provides richness and allows you to control the salt level. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency when mixing.

How long can I store my Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days. This will help maintain their delicate texture and flavor!

Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes! Freezing the dough is a great option. Wrap the unbaked logs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just slice the frozen logs and bake them directly from the freezer!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much, it could be because the dough wasn’t chilled enough. Always ensure you chill the dough for at least 1 hour. Also, check that your oven is at the correct temperature—using an oven thermometer can help you avoid any inconsistencies.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
While Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are delightful for humans, they contain ingredients like butter and sugar that aren’t suitable for pets. The tea leaves might also pose a risk to pets if ingested in large amounts. It’s best to keep these treats away from them.

Can I use other types of tea in this recipe?
Very! Feel free to experiment with other tea flavors, such as lavender or chai. Just ensure you adjust the amount of extract based on the intensity of the tea. For example, if using a stronger tea like chai, you might want to use a bit less. Enjoy creating your unique twist on Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies!