Name: Delightful Grey Shortbread Cookies for Tea Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 10.5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.); 0.5 cup Icing Sugar (Adds softness.); 1 teaspoon Earl Grey Extract (Enhances tea flavor.); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Base of cookies.); 0.5 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.); 2 teaspoons Earl Grey Tea Leaves (Infuses flavor; use finely ground leaves.)

As I brewed my morning cup of Earl Grey, the delicate aroma filled the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. This comforting ritual always sparks my creativity, leading me to whip up a batch of Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies. These buttery delights combine the enchanting notes of tea with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them a quick triumph in my baking repertoire. In just four simple steps, you can create cookies that are not only elegant but also perfect for gifting or enjoying alongside your favorite cuppa. With endless variations like Earl Grey Lavender or Citrus, there’s a twist for everyone to fall in love with. Are you ready to treat your taste buds to a delightful experience?

Why Are Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Irresistible?

Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: These cookies boast a luxuriously buttery texture that simply dissolves in your mouth.

Unique flavor profiles: Infused with the aromatic notes of Earl Grey tea, with variations like Earl Grey Lavender and Citrus adding a twist.

Quick & easy: Whip them up in just four simple steps, making them perfect for busy bakers.

Versatile treats: Ideal for tea parties, gifting, or just a cozy snack with your favorite brew – they’re surefire crowd-pleasers!

Sink your teeth into these delightful cookies and consider pairing them with other sweet treats like Lava Brownie Cookies or Vanilla Waffle Cookies for an indulgent dessert spread!

Grey Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to bake these delightful Grey Shortbread Cookies with simple yet essential ingredients!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter (10.5 tablespoons) – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
Icing Sugar (½ cup) – This sweetener adds a softness that granulated sugar can’t achieve.
Earl Grey Extract (1 teaspoon) or Vanilla Extract – Use this to enhance the tea flavor, or opt for vanilla for a different spin.
All-Purpose Flour (1.5 cups) – The base of your cookies, ensuring they hold their shape and texture.
Fine Sea Salt (½ teaspoon) – Just a pinch balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
Earl Grey Tea Leaves (2 teaspoons, fine) – Infuses the distinct Earl Grey flavor; use the contents from tea bags or finely grind the leaves.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a food processor, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and icing sugar, pulsing until light and fluffy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, Earl Grey tea leaves, and your choice of Earl Grey or vanilla extract. Pulse until the mixture forms a cohesive dough, taking care not to overprocess, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Chill Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions, rolling each into logs about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. This chilling step is crucial for the Grey Shortbread Cookies to maintain their shape while baking.

Step 3: Slice Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when you bake the cookies. Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice them into ¼ to ½ inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least an inch apart for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the bottoms are just barely golden, ensuring they remain buttery soft. After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance by rolling it into logs, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating. This not only saves you valuable time but also ensures the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the logs from the fridge, slice them into rounds (about ¼ to ½ inch thick), and bake as instructed. To maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture, bake the slices straight from the refrigerator. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have delicious Grey Shortbread Cookies ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

As you enjoy the delicate aromas of these buttery delights, imagine a full spread that enhances every bite and warms your heart.

Mascarpone Cream: A dollop of this creamy, slightly sweet cheese adds richness, perfect for complementing the flavors of your cookies. Spread it on top for an elegant touch!
Earl Grey Tea: Elevate your tasting experience by sipping on a warm cup of this aromatic tea. It perfectly mirrors the flavors of the cookies while enhancing the delightful ritual of tea time.
Lemon Curd: The tangy brightness of lemon curd contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ buttery richness, creating a delightful play of flavors that dance on your palate.
Fresh Berries: A medley of vibrant berries adds a refreshing burst of flavor and color to your dessert table, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. Strawberries and blueberries are especially delightful!
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the warmed cookies or alongside a slice of cheese brings a touch of floral sweetness that complements the Earl Grey infusion.
Shortbread Cheesecake Bars: Feeling adventurous? Pair these cookies with rich cheesecake bars for a textural and flavorful contrast that will impress your guests.
Sparkling Water: A bubbly beverage refreshes your palate after each sweet bite and cleanses the taste buds, making every experience enjoyable.

Dive into the magic of these pairings, and create a delightful atmosphere that celebrates every crumb of your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies!

Expert Tips for Grey Shortbread Cookies

Chill Thoroughly: Ensure you chill the dough for at least an hour; this prevents the cookies from spreading and helps them maintain their perfect shape during baking.
Proper Measuring: Use a kitchen scale for measuring flour. Too much flour can make the dough dry, leading to dense cookies instead of tender Grey Shortbread Cookies.
Fresh Tea Leaves: Use fresh tea leaves for a bolder flavor. If using tea bags, ensure the leaves are finely ground to maximize their infusion in the cookies.
Oven Variability: Keep an eye on your cookies as baking times can vary. Remove them when they are just lightly golden at the bottom to maintain a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding citrus zest or lavender for a unique twist on the classic Grey Shortbread Cookies, making them truly your own.

Grey Shortbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore the wonderful world of flavors and customize your cookies to suit your taste.

Earl Grey Lavender: Swap in lavender Earl Grey tea and add a splash of lavender extract for a floral touch. The delicate perfume will transport you to a serene garden with every bite.
Citrus Earl Grey: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, refreshing twist. This citrusy addition enhances the tea’s enchanting qualities, providing a uniquely uplifting flavor.
Lady Grey Twist: Use Lady Grey tea instead of Earl Grey for a slightly sweeter, more citrusy flavor profile. This variation still captivates with its aromatic charms, making each cookie a delightful surprise.
Chocolate Chunks: Mix in ½ cup of dark chocolate or white chocolate chunks for a rich, indulgent flavor. The combination of tea and chocolate creates a decadent cookie experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture. This nutty twist elevates your Grey Shortbread Cookies to a new level of deliciousness.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint in lieu of Earl Grey for a caffeine-free alternative. Each herbal note will take your tastebuds on a different enjoyable journey.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to infuse warmth and depth. This flavor boost intertwines beautifully with the tea essence, creating an unexpected yet pleasing complexity.
Icing Variations: Drizzle with a lemon glaze or dip half of each cookie in chocolate for an added layer of flavor. The sweet or citrusy topping offers a beautiful contrast that’s sure to impress.

For more delightful cookie ideas, don’t miss these Lava Brownie Cookies or Vanilla Waffle Cookies to complete your indulgent dessert spread!

How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container away from sunlight for up to 7 days. They’ll remain fresh and tasty while stored this way.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Be sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent moisture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen!
Reheating: If you like them warm, pop baked cookies in a 250°F oven for about 5 minutes, just until they are heated through, restoring their delightful softness.

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter is best for making Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
I highly recommend using unsalted butter for these cookies. It contributes to a rich flavor and tender texture. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, which helps create that perfect creamy consistency when combined with icing sugar.

How should I store my Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Store your baked Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, just remember to wrap them well to prevent moisture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, form it into logs and wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and bake from frozen—they will still turn out delicious!

What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly?
If your cookies are turning out too crumbly, it might be due to over-measuring the flour. I recommend using a kitchen scale for accuracy. Make sure to follow the dough preparation closely and avoid over-processing the dough in the food processor. If necessary, you can add a teaspoon of milk to moisten the dough slightly.

Can I use different types of tea in my shortbread cookies?
Certainly! While Earl Grey is a delightful choice due to its unique flavor profile, feel free to experiment with other types of tea, like chai or green tea. If you’re looking for something different, consider substituting Earl Grey with Lavender Earl Grey or Lady Grey to see which flavors you prefer.

Are Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies safe for anyone with nut allergies?
Yes, these cookies are nut-free, making them a great choice for those with nut allergies. Just be cautious if you’re using any tea blends that may contain nuts or if you’re serving them around individuals with specific allergies. Always check ingredient labels to be sure!