These easy Earl Grey cookies are the perfect treat for any tea lover. Imagine biting into a buttery, crumbly cookie infused with the aromatic bliss of bergamot. These cookies are not just easy to make, they’re incredibly satisfying, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Easy Earl Grey Cookie Recipe is your gateway to a delicious, fragrant, and utterly delightful baking experience.
Table Of Contents
Similar to our vegan chai cookie recipe, this recipe emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients. The subtle floral notes of Earl Grey tea elevate these simple cookies to a whole new level. So, grab your apron, brew a cup of your favorite tea, and let’s get baking!
Mastering the Art of Earl Grey Infusion
The key to a truly exceptional Earl Grey cookie lies in the infusion process. We’re not just talking about adding a splash of tea to the dough; we’re talking about a deep, rich infusion that permeates every crumb. Think of it like steeping a perfect cup of tea—the longer you steep, the more intense the flavor. Here’s how to achieve Earl Grey perfection:
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Grind the Tea: Start with high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea. Grind the leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. This maximizes the surface area, allowing for a more potent flavor extraction.
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Infuse the Butter: Melt your butter gently and add the ground tea leaves. Let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the butter to absorb the aromatic oils from the tea, creating a flavorful base for your cookies.
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Strain the Butter: After steeping, strain the butter through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any gritty tea particles. This ensures a smooth, luxurious texture in your finished cookies.
Easy Earl Grey Cookie Recipe Ingredients
This easy Earl Grey cookie recipe calls for simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Don’t be afraid to use high-quality butter and vanilla extract – it makes a world of difference!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves
Ingredients for easy Earl Grey cookies
Baking Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your Earl Grey butter is ready, let’s dive into the baking process. This easy Earl Grey cookie recipe follows a standard cookie-making procedure, making it accessible to bakers of all levels.
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter, more delicate cookie.
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Egg-cellent Addition: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Be sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next.
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Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill Out: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too thin during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
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Cooling Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations on a Theme: Exploring Flavor Combinations
Why stop at classic Earl Grey? This easy Earl Grey cookie recipe is a fantastic base for exploring a variety of flavor combinations. Consider adding a touch of lemon zest for a brighter citrus note, or incorporate chopped nuts for added texture and richness. For a truly decadent treat, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies. The possibilities are endless! You might even try adding spices like those found in our vegan chai cookie recipe, adjusting the amounts to complement the Earl Grey.
Tips for Earl Grey Cookie Success
- Use Fresh Tea: For the best flavor, use high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill Time is Crucial: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances the texture.
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Golden-brown Earl Grey cookies on a cooling rack
FAQ: Your Earl Grey Cookie Questions Answered
Q: Can I use Earl Grey tea bags instead of loose leaf tea?
A: Yes, you can use tea bags, but the flavor might not be as intense. Use about 4-5 tea bags, removing the contents and discarding the bags.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: What if I don’t have a spice grinder?
A: You can finely chop the tea leaves with a sharp knife, but a spice grinder or mortar and pestle yields the best results.
Enjoy Your Earl Grey Delights!
This easy Earl Grey cookie recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with a touch of creativity, can result in extraordinary treats. So, go ahead, indulge in the delightful aroma and flavor of these delicate cookies. Share them with friends, family, or simply savor them yourself with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea. Happy baking!
