There’s something undeniably comforting about a good cookie. But imagine a cookie that’s not just sweet and buttery—but also sophisticated, delicately infused with the floral and citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Earl Grey Cookies
These Earl Grey cookies are the perfect balance of elegance and nostalgia. They’re crisp yet tender, subtly sweet yet bold in flavor. Whether you’re a devoted tea lover or just looking for something unique to add to your baking repertoire, these cookies are an absolute must-try.
Oh, and did we mention they pair beautifully with a cup of London Fog Latte?
“These cookies have such an elegant depth of flavor. The bergamot shines beautifully, without overpowering the buttery base. Absolutely delightful with tea!”
— Chef James Cook, Culinary Expert
What Makes Earl Grey Tea Special?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the star ingredient.
Earl Grey is a blend of black tea infused with bergamot oil, a citrus fruit that gives it a distinctive, slightly floral aroma. Its unique flavor makes it a perfect match for buttery baked goods like these cookies.
Fun Fact: Earl Grey tea was named after Charles Grey, a British Prime Minister in the 1800s!
Ingredients & Their Roles
To get that perfect balance of crispness and melt-in-your-mouth texture, here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The structure of the cookies.
- 2 tbsp finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves – The soul of this recipe.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temp) – Gives the cookies their signature richness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Ensures a smooth, delicate sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the bergamot notes.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Earl Grey Cookies
1. Infusing the Earl Grey Tea for Maximum Flavor
To ensure the deepest, richest tea flavor, you’ll want to infuse the butter:
- Melt the butter over low heat.
- Add in the finely ground Earl Grey tea and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the butter (optional) and let it solidify before using.
Shortcut: If you’re in a hurry, just grind the tea leaves finely and mix them directly into the dough!
2. Mixing the Dough
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, tea leaves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
3. Shaping & Chilling
- Roll the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, slice into ¼-inch thick rounds or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
4. Baking to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges turn golden.
5. Cooling & Serving
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Serve with a hot cup of Pumpkin Banana Loaf for the ultimate cozy treat!
Pairing Ideas: The Perfect Afternoon Tea Experience
These cookies are delightful on their own, but even better when paired with:
- A London Fog Latte (Earl Grey tea + frothed milk + vanilla)
- The Ultimate Belgian Waffle for brunch perfection
- Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies for a classic cookie spread
Final Thoughts: A Cookie Worth Baking Again & Again
These Earl Grey cookies are more than just a recipe—they’re an experience. Their delicate yet bold flavor, buttery texture, and sophisticated aroma make them a must-try for any tea lover.
So go ahead—brew a cup of tea, preheat your oven, and bake up a batch of these elegant cookies. You won’t regret it!
Have a sweet tooth? Try our Slutty Brownies next for a chocolatey indulgence!
Happy baking!