Name: Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (about 4 tea bags); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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There’s something irresistibly charming about Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies—the way their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture mingles with the bright, citrusy aroma of bergamot-infused tea leaves. These cookies are simplicity and elegance, all in one bite-sized package. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll fall in love with their delicate flavor, subtle floral notes, and bake-perfect consistency. This is a treat that brings a touch of teatime luxury to any day, and I can’t wait for you to experience their aromatic magic in your own kitchen!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

While these cookies feel refined, the ingredient list is refreshingly short and accessible. Each item plays a starring role—bringing out that signature crumb, delicate sweetness, and classic Earl Grey lift. Let’s break down why every element counts.

Unsalted Butter: The foundation of any great shortbread, it’s what creates the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Powdered Sugar: Gives these cookies a delicate sweetness and ultra-smooth consistency—better than granulated sugar here.
All-Purpose Flour: Holds the dough together and gives just enough structure for perfect slicing and baking.
Finely Ground Earl Grey Tea Leaves: The aroma hero, offering those unmistakable citrusy, floral notes—use fresh tea from about 4 bags.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the floral tones and rounds out the flavor profile for a warm, luxurious finish.
Salt: Just a pinch brightens every bite and brings all the flavors into focus.

How to Make Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating your softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl. You’re looking for a light, fluffy, slightly pale mixture—this step is key for achieving that signature shortbread crumb. Take your time, and scrape down the sides to be sure everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Pour in the vanilla extract and give everything another quick mix. This little splash does wonders, mellowing out the floral Earl Grey and making the cookie’s aroma even more inviting.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk your flour, finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves, and salt together. Grinding the tea leaves very finely ensures you get all that lovely flavor without any chewy bits. Whisking helps distribute those tiny flecks of tea evenly throughout the dough.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mix to your butter mixture. Try not to overmix—blend just until a dough forms. You’ll notice the dough coming together and speckled with fragrant tea leaves. It should be soft but not sticky.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 2 inches across. These logs make slicing so much neater later on! Wrap each in plastic and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling the dough is the secret to crisp, clean-edged cookies and prevents them from spreading.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice your chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds—the perfect thickness for a snappy, tender bite. Arrange the cookies about an inch apart and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges hint at gold. Resist the urge to overbake; pale is perfect here.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. This gentle cooling sets them and keeps the bottoms crisp. Once cooled, they’re ready for your next tea party—or just a lovely afternoon treat.

How to Serve Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way with these Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies. You can drizzle them with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness and sparkle, or dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar. A few edible flower petals make for a whimsical touch if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

These cookies truly shine with a hot cup of tea—Earl Grey, of course, or anything citrusy and floral. For an afternoon spread, serve alongside sliced fruit, clotted cream, or a bowl of fresh berries to balance their buttery richness. They’re also a delightful addition to an elegant dessert board with other biscuits and chocolates.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies in a clear glass jar and tie with a ribbon for an instant homemade gift. Create layered cookie sandwich bites with a dab of lemon or lavender buttercream for special occasions. Arrange on a vintage plate with loose-leaf tea sachets for a charming tea party display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re crisp and buttery for up to a week, though chances are they’ll be devoured long before that! Just make sure the container is tightly sealed, as shortbread can absorb moisture and lose its perfect crumb if left uncovered.

Freezing

If you’d like to get ahead or save some for later, the dough (shaped into logs and wrapped well in plastic) can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, let the log thaw in the refrigerator until sliceable. Baked cookies also freeze beautifully—just layer between sheets of parchment in an airtight box to prevent sticking or breakage.

Reheating

If you love a just-baked cookie sensation, pop leftover Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick warm-up revives their lovely crisp edges and releases those fragrant tea notes all over again, making them taste bakery-fresh.

FAQs

Can I use loose-leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a fine grind—either process in a spice grinder or chop very finely with a sharp knife. The key is avoiding large, chewy pieces of tea leaf for the smoothest texture in your shortbread.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The cookies may be a touch crumblier, but the flavors will still shine beautifully. Keep a gentle hand with the dough as you mix and shape.

Can I use a stand mixer instead of mixing by hand?

Definitely—a stand mixer makes the creaming process even easier and ensures everything is well-blended. Just remember to mix only until the dough comes together to avoid overworking and toughening your cookies.

Can I make Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies in advance for gifting?

They’re a wonderful make-ahead gift! Bake a batch, let them cool fully, and then package in an airtight tin or glass jar. Pair with a handwritten label or a sachet of Earl Grey tea for that thoughtful personal touch.

What’s the best way to get neat, even slices?

Chilled dough is key—don’t rush the chilling step! Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and clean it between slices if needed. If your dough feels too firm from the fridge, let it rest at room temp for a couple minutes before slicing.

Final Thoughts

There’s real joy in baking a treat that’s both elegant and easy, and Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are exactly that kind of magic. Whether you share them at your next gathering or enjoy them during a moment of calm, I just know these cookies will win you over. Give them a try and let their delicate charm brighten your day!

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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4.7 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicate and fragrant, these Earl Grey shortbread cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Infused with the essence of Earl Grey tea, these buttery cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (about 4 tea bags)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground Earl Grey tea, and salt.
Combine Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.
Chill Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Preheat and Slice: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.