London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time
There’s a certain magic that happens when the weather outside turns crisp and cool — it calls for warm beverages, cozy blankets, and a delightful treat to savor. London Fog Shortbread Cookies blend the fragrant, cozy notes of Earl Grey tea with the rich, buttery goodness of shortbread, making them the perfect companion for your afternoon tea rituals. These cookies evoke memories of lazy afternoons, where time slows down and the only priority is to indulge in sweet bites while cradling a steaming cup of tea. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cozy and Comforting: Each bite is a warm hug from the inside, perfectly pairing with a good book or a heartfelt chat with friends.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, this easy recipe comes together seamlessly, making it a great choice for both novice bakers and experienced chefs.
- Impressive Presentation: Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies look as delightful as they taste, making them a beautiful addition to any tea time.
- Adaptable for Any Occasion: Perfect for the Holidays, brunches, or as an afternoon snack, they will wow your guests and family alike.
- Aromatic Flavor: The infusion of Earl Grey tea leaves adds a sophisticated touch that elevates these shortbread cookies from the ordinary to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need for London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar for serving
How to Make London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (226g) of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup (100g) of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
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Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Stir until the tea leaves are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, allowing the enticing aroma to fill your kitchen.
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Gradually add in 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour along with a pinch of salt, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix — we want tender cookies, not tough ones!
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Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (or any shape you fancy) to cut out the cookies, creating delightful little rounds.
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Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to spread during baking, and pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a lovely golden hue.
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Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. For a decorative touch, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright and refreshing twist that will awaken your taste buds.
- Lavender Delight: Incorporate a tablespoon of dried culinary lavender along with the Earl Grey leaves for a floral surprise in every cookie.
- Chocolate Dipped: After baking and cooling, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Nutty Surprise: Introduce a handful of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the dough for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring that your cookie cravings can easily be satisfied!
- Storage Suggestions: These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, so you can enjoy them at your leisure.
- Flour Measurement: For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag. This helps avoid overly dense cookies.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different teas or add-ins to customize your cookies.
- How do I store leftovers? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their deliciousness.
- How long does it last? These cookies can be enjoyed for up to a week, but they might not last that long if you have guests or a sweet tooth nearby!
Wrapping It Up
These London Fog Shortbread Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a comforting reminder to slow down and savor the sweet moments in life. Each buttery bite, infused with the sophisticated notes of Earl Grey tea, creates a blissful experience perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Save this London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time to your cozy treats board so it’s ready when you need a delightful pick-me-up! Enjoy baking and taking a moment just for you!
