London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time

London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time

The warmth of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen evokes a sense of nostalgia—tender moments where family and friends gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories over steaming cups of tea. These London Fog Shortbread Cookies marry the delicate aroma of Earl Grey tea with the comforting creaminess of butter, creating a delightful treat that’s as soothing as a warm blanket on a chilly afternoon. Perfect for those cozy tea times or special celebrations, this recipe is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly indulgent and perfect for tea time, these cookies offer a delightful twist on classic shortbread.
• The fragrant Earl Grey tea leaves infuse a unique flavor profile, making them a conversation starter at any gathering.
• Quick and easy to whip up, you’ll find that this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• These cookies are a versatile treat, suitable for any occasion—from casual afternoons to festive celebrations.
• They create a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s a true crowd-pleaser, delightful for both young and old alike.

Gather These Simple Ingredients

To make these delightful London Fog Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need:

• 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make it together! Here’s how you can create these delightful cookies:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (226g) of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup (100g) of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
2. Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Stir until evenly distributed, allowing the fragrant notes to fill your kitchen.
3. Gradually add in 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour, along with a pinch of salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Remember, avoid overmixing to keep those cookies tender!
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and help with cutting.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Feel free to use a round cookie cutter or any shape that tickles your fancy!
6. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. For an optional elegant touch, dust them with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

Delicious Variations to Try

Ready to take your London Fog Shortbread Cookies to the next level? Here are some fun ways to customize your treats:

• Citrusy Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough to brighten the flavor and give it a zesty twist that pairs beautifully with Earl Grey.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an indulgent, rich finish that complements the tea notes.
• Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, into the dough for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor.
• Lavender Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of culinary lavender with the Earl Grey tea leaves for a lush floral note that beautifully complements the creaminess of the butter.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Here are a few of my best tricks to ensure your London Fog Shortbread Cookies turn out perfect every time:

• Make-Ahead Dough: You can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
• Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of Earl Grey, feel free to experiment with any flavored tea! Chai or Jasmine could add delicious flair.
• Perfect Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long!
• Cutting Shapes: Use cookie cutters for festive occasions! A simple heart shape would be lovely for Valentine’s Day, or a Christmas tree for the Holiday season.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Here’s what you can expect with these delightful cookies:

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 50mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? Here are some common ones about these London Fog Shortbread Cookies:

• Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later baking.
• Can I use different ingredients? Yes! Feel free to swap Earl Grey tea for any flavored tea you adore!
• How do I store leftovers? Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• How long does it last? When stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh for about a week, if they don’t get devoured beforehand!

A Cozy Closing Note

These London Fog Shortbread Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they offer a moment of pause—a chance to connect, savor, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Whether you find yourself needing a cozy afternoon pick-me-up or a delightful treat to share with loved ones, this recipe has you covered.

Save this London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe Perfect for Tea Time to your dessert board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Enjoy the baking journey, and more importantly, enjoy every buttery, Earl Grey-infused bite!