As I stood in my kitchen, the warm, soothing scent of Earl Grey tea wafted around me, instantly transporting me to cozy afternoons spent sipping tea while enjoying delicate treats. It was then that I knew I had to bake something special—enter these delightful London Fog Shortbread Cookies. With their soft, buttery texture and a touch of vanilla, these shortbread cookies are not only incredibly easy to make but also a sure way to impress family and friends at your next gathering. Perfect for tea time or a sweet indulgence after dinner, they embody the comforting essence of a beloved beverage. Ready to elevate your cookie game? Let’s get baking!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The gentle infusion of Earl Grey tea transforms classic shortbread into a sophisticated treat that tea lovers will adore.
Effortless to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, these shortbread cookies can be whipped up in no time, making them ideal for busy bakers.
Elegant Appearance: Sprinkled with decorating sugar, every cookie looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests at your next tea party.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to experiment with flavors—try adding lemon zest or even a hint of lavender for a unique twist.
Don’t forget to check out these delicious Cranberry Shortbread Cookies or Chocolate Oat Cookies for more delightful baked goods to add to your cookie repertoire!
Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing, giving richness to your shortbread cookies.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a delicate texture; can be substituted with cane sugar for varying results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure-builder; choose gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-free option.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor beautifully; it’s best to stick with pure for optimal results.
• Earl Grey Tea Leaves (crushed) – Infuses unique tea flavor; use dry leaves directly for that aromatic essence.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates overall flavor.
For Decorating
• Decorating Sugar – Adds a sweet finishing touch and visual appeal; regular sugar works as a substitute if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Soften the Butter
Begin by placing 1 cup of unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s soft to the touch and easily spreadable. This step is crucial as it ensures your London Fog Shortbread Cookies will have that perfectly creamy texture when combined with other ingredients.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened butter together with ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract on low speed. Mix for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, with a light and fluffy consistency that indicates the sugar has fully incorporated. This base will set the stage for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt into the butter mixture, followed by 1 tablespoon of crushed Earl Grey tea leaves. Mix until a thick dough forms, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The dough should hold together without being crumbly, showcasing the delightful flavor of the Earl Grey infused throughout.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Carefully shape the dough into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap, sealing it to keep the moisture in. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to slice but also enhances the flavors in your London Fog Shortbread Cookies.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once you remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it, your baking sheet is ready to bake those heavenly cookies. The preheat phase is essential for achieving that perfect lightly golden exterior.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or pastry cutter. Place them on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about an inch apart. Sprinkle a bit of decorating sugar on top of each cookie round to give them a sweet, sparkling finish.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. The cookies should look firm but should feel slightly soft to the touch when you remove them—this indicates they will set perfectly as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Once baked, transfer your London Fog Shortbread Cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture before serving. Once cooled, store your delightful cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week, or enjoy them right away with a cup of tea.
Expert Tips for Shortbread Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is fully softened to avoid lumps in the dough and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency for your shortbread cookies.
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Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so it’s best to check them at the 12-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
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Dough Chilling: Chill the dough for at least 1 hour or overnight for easier slicing. This also intensifies the flavors, making your shortbread cookies even tastier.
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Gentle Mixing: When incorporating the Earl Grey tea leaves, mix gently to prevent overmixing the dough. Overmixing can create a tough texture instead of the desired crumbly shortbread.
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Storage Tips: Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months before baking.
What to Serve with London Fog Shortbread Cookies
These delightful treats are perfect for sharing love and warmth over a cup of tea or coffee, creating memorable moments of togetherness.
- Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai harmoniously complement the floral essence of Earl Grey, creating a cozy pairing perfect for afternoon enjoyment.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich, contrasting texture, making for a delightful dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries offer a refreshing contrast to the buttery cookies and enhance their elegant flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The tartness of the strawberries and the richness of dark chocolate create an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with the soft cookies.
- Lemon Iced Tea: A chilled, zesty beverage, lemon iced tea refreshes the palate and balances the sweetness of the cookies with its vibrant citrus notes.
- Meringue Kisses: Light and airy, meringue kisses bring a sweet and delicate touch that enhances the tea flavors of the cookies while adding delightful crunch.
Shortbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your spin on these delectable cookies and make them truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a delightful gluten-free treat. This ensures everyone can enjoy the buttery goodness!
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Flavored Tea: Swap out Earl Grey for chai or green tea leaves to discover new taste sensations. Each tea brings its own unique flavor profile, making your cookies exciting and new with every batch.
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Citrusy Kick: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing twist. The bright flavor pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the shortbread and the warmth of tea.
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Lavender Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of dried culinary lavender for a fragrant touch. This aromatic twist enhances the experience, making each bite feel like a luxurious dessert.
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Nutty Goodness: Mix in finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans. They add a pleasing crunch and elevate the texture of your cookies beautifully.
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Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor sensation. Almond’s light, nutty essence will give your cookies a delightful twist.
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Syrupy Drizzle: Once baked, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness. This indulgent topping makes each bite feel like a special treat.
For more delightful recipes, check out my scrumptious Cranberry Shortbread Cookies or explore the rich flavors in Chocolate Oat Cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked shortbread cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain their delicious softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cookie dough log in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, keeping them soft and fresh-tasting.
Make Ahead Options
These London Fog Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into a log and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, which helps retain moisture and flavor. Additionally, the unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw it before slicing for baking. When you’re ready to indulge, simply slice the chilled or thawed dough into rounds, sprinkle with decorating sugar, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, bringing the warmth of Earl Grey directly into your home.
London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for this recipe, softened to room temperature. This helps create a smooth and creamy dough, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your London Fog Shortbread Cookies.
How can I ensure my Earl Grey tea leaves are the right type for the cookies?
Very! Use high-quality, loose Earl Grey tea leaves for the best flavor. Make sure the leaves are dry and finely crushed before adding them to your dough, as this allows the wonderful tea aroma to infuse evenly throughout the cookies.
What is the best way to store baked shortbread cookies?
You can store your baked shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them return to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze the cookie dough? If so, how?
Of course! Wrap the shaped cookie dough log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the log in the refrigerator overnight, slice the cookies, and bake as directed. This method helps you enjoy freshly baked cookies even on short notice!
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Oh no! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly soft butter or not chilling the dough long enough. Ensure your butter is appropriately softened—not melted—and always refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to help maintain their shape during baking. Monitoring the baking time closely also helps prevent this issue.
Are there any gluten-free options for these cookies?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. This will allow you to enjoy the same great flavor and texture, making them delightful for those with gluten sensitivities!
Shortbread Cookies with a Delightful Earl Grey Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing 1 cup of unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened butter together with ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract on low speed for about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt, followed by 1 tablespoon of crushed Earl Grey tea leaves. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Carefully shape the dough into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- After chilling, slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely.
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