Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of our cookies, providing structure and texture.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cookies and gives them a smooth texture.

Earl Grey tea leaves: Infuses the cookies with a unique, aromatic flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

To enhance the flavor of your earl grey tea leaves, consider grinding them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle before incorporating them into the flour mixture. This will ensure a more even distribution of the tea throughout the cookie dough, resulting in a more pronounced and consistent earl grey flavor in every bite.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies denser.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used but will result in a slightly different texture; you can also blend granulated sugar to make powdered sugar.

• earl grey tea leaves - Substitute with chai tea leaves: Chai tea leaves offer a different but complementary spice profile, adding warmth and complexity to the cookies.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.

• To keep your earl grey shortbread cookies fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week.
• For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
• If you want to enjoy these cookies over a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. First, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This step ensures they won't stick together.
• After the initial freeze, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label the container with the date. The cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
• When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. They will taste just as delicious as the day you baked them.
• If you prefer warm cookies, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their freshly baked aroma and slight crispness.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, consider dipping the thawed or reheated cookies in melted chocolate or drizzling a glaze over them before serving. This adds a delightful twist to your earl grey shortbread cookies experience.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the earl grey shortbread cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are just heated through. This method helps retain their crisp texture.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become too soft.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, set it to 300°F (150°C) and place the shortbread cookies directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-browning.

• For an unconventional method, use a stovetop. Place a skillet over low heat and add the cookies. Cover with a lid and let them warm for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can give a slightly toasted flavor.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the earl grey shortbread cookies in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even warming.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the cookies.

• Baking sheet: Line with parchment paper to place the cookies for baking.

• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.

• Mixing bowl: Used to cream together the butter and powdered sugar.

• Electric mixer: Creams the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

• Whisk: Whisks together the flour, earl grey tea leaves, and salt.

• Rolling pin: Rolls out the dough to the desired thickness.

• Cookie cutter: Cuts the dough into desired shapes.

• Wire rack: Allows the cookies to cool completely after baking.

• Measuring cups: Measures the flour and butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measures the powdered sugar, tea leaves, vanilla extract, and salt accurately.

• Spatula: Mixes the dry ingredients into the butter mixture and transfers cookies to the wire rack.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine butter and powdered sugar in a food processor to save time on creaming.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like flour, earl grey tea leaves, and salt beforehand to streamline the process.

Chill the dough: If the dough is too soft to roll out, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Use parchment paper: Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and reduce cleanup time.

Batch baking: Cut and place all cookies on multiple baking sheets to bake them all at once.