earl grey shortbread cookies
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earl grey shortbread cookie
30
20
4
Dessert
England
Indulge in the delicate flavors of earl grey tea with these irresistible earl grey shortbread cookies. Combining the rich, buttery goodness of traditional shortbread with the subtle citrusy notes of aromatic earl grey, these cookies are a treat for the senses. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to make your own batch of these delightful cookies.
Why would you love this recipe for making earl grey shortbread cookies ?
🍪✨ These melt-in-your-mouth treats are the perfect balance of buttery goodness and crumbly texture. Get ready to bake up some happiness! 😋
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- half egg yolk
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons loose earl grey tea leaves (or 4 earl grey tea bags)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Directions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 2
Add ½ of the egg yolk to the mixture and continue to combine.
Step 3
Gradually add the flour and grinded earl grey tea leaves to the butter mixture, stirring until a crumbly dough forms. Use your hands to bring the dough together, kneading gently until it becomes smooth and cohesive.
Step 4
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Roll out the dough to a stick and coat with a layer of granulated sugar.
Step 5
Divide the dough stick to small disks using a knife. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and proceed to baking.
Step 6
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade earl grey shortbread cookies! They are perfect on their own or paired with a cup of tea.
Pro Tips
To ensure the best flavor, use high-quality earl grey tea leaves or tea bags. The better the tea, the better the cookies will taste. For a more pronounced tea flavor, you can grind the loose tea leaves in a coffee grinder before infusing the butter. This will release more of the tea's aromatic oils.
When rolling out the dough, make sure to sprinkle the surface and the rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. If the dough becomes too soft and difficult to work with, simply return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up again.
Feel free to get creative with the shapes of your cookies. Use different cookie cutters to make them festive for holidays or special occasions.
Storing and Preserving Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
To keep your earl grey shortbread cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- If you live in a humid climate, you may want to add a slice of bread to the container to help absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies crisp.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can store the cookies in a sealed container with a slice of apple, which will help keep them moist.
- To extend the shelf life, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Variations and Additions to Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
While the classic earl grey shortbread cookies are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different variations and additions to customize the flavors. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright and citrusy twist.
- Lavender: Infuse the butter with a tablespoon of culinary lavender along with the earl grey tea for a floral undertone.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an indulgent touch.
- Earl Grey Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of brewed earl grey tea to create a glaze and drizzle it over the cookies for added sweetness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
Earl grey shortbread cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience:
- Afternoon Tea: Serve the cookies alongside a steaming pot of earl grey tea for a harmonious tea time pairing.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a cool and creamy dessert.
- Fruit Compote: Top the cookies with a spoonful of your favorite fruit compote or jam for a burst of fruity sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Serve the cookies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of earl grey tea leaves for an elegant dessert.
Top Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it's best to use unsalted butter to have more control over the saltiness of the cookies. Adjust the amount of salt accordingly if using salted butter.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with another type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, as it provides the desired texture and structure. Substituting with other flours may yield different results.
