Have you ever wondered how to elevate a classic sugar cookie into something truly extraordinary? Picture this: soft, chewy cookies infused with the fragrant aroma of Earl Grey tea, topped with a zesty lemon glaze that adds the perfect tangy finish. These Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your senses. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, looking for a unique holiday cookie, or simply craving a cozy baking project, this recipe is sure to delight. The combination of floral bergamot and bright citrus creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting. So, grab your apron and let’s bake something magical together!
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Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
These Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat – they’re a baking experience you’ll want to repeat again and again. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Unique Flavor Combination: The fragrant notes of Earl Grey tea, with its subtle citrusy bergamot, paired with a tangy lemon glaze, create a cookie that’s both sophisticated and comforting. It’s a delightful twist on a classic that will impress your family and friends.
- Perfect Texture: Imagine biting into a cookie with a soft, chewy center and crisp edges. These cookies strike the ideal balance, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them.
- Beginner-Friendly: With everyday ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is designed for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find it approachable and fun.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: These cookies are perfect for tea parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their elegant flavor and beautiful presentation make them a standout addition to any dessert table.
- Endless Customization: Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Add an extra tea bag for a stronger Earl Grey flavor or adjust the glaze to be sweeter or tangier. The possibilities are endless!
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s get started!
Ingredients List for Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Before we dive into baking these delightful Earl Grey Sugar Cookies, let’s gather all the ingredients. Don’t worry – everything is simple and easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cookies:
- 180g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tbsp loose tea leaves, finely ground)
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 120g (1 cup) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (add more or less depending on how thick or thin you like your glaze)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
Pro Tip: For these cookies, we use Earl Grey tea (or loose-leaf tea) to infuse a beautiful, fragrant flavor. Earl Grey tea is renowned for its health benefits, including antioxidant properties and digestive support. Find out more about the benefits of this delightful tea at Healthline.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part – baking these delightful Earl Grey Sugar Cookies! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a batch of fragrant, chewy cookies with a tangy lemon glaze in no time.
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly; if it’s too melted, the cookies may spread too much.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
- Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step ensures the cookies hold their shape and don’t spread too thin while baking.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can pop the dough in the freezer for 15 minutes instead. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t freeze solid!
3. Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into smooth balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5cm apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft and slightly underbaked.
Pro Tip: For evenly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon measure. And remember, the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them!
4. Make the Lemon Glaze
- While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth.
- If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice. If it’s too thin, mix in a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Pro Tip: For a glossy finish, drizzle the glaze over the cookies while they’re still slightly warm. This helps the glaze set beautifully.
5. Glaze and Serve
- Once the cookies have cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the lemon glaze over them using a spoon or a piping bag.
- Let the glaze set for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or finely ground Earl Grey tea on top of the glaze for a decorative touch.
Tips for Perfect Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Baking these Earl Grey Sugar Cookies is a joy, but a few extra tips can make the process even smoother and the results even better. Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to help you nail this recipe every time:
1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
- Make sure your butter, egg, and any other refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This ensures even mixing and a consistent texture in your cookies.
Pro Tip: If you forget to take the butter out ahead of time, you can soften it quickly by cutting it into small cubes and letting it sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Mix the Dough Gently
- When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, so a light touch is key.
3. Chill the Dough
- Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. If you’re in a hurry, the freezer can speed things up – just keep an eye on it!
Pro Tip: If you’re baking in batches, keep the unused dough in the fridge while the first batch bakes to maintain the right consistency.
4. Measure Ingredients Precisely
- Baking is a science, so accuracy matters. Use a kitchen scale to weigh dry ingredients like flour and sugar for the best results.
5. Watch Your Cookies Closely
- Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s important to monitor your cookies as they bake. They’re ready when the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Pro Tip: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
6. Customize the Flavor
- Love a stronger Earl Grey flavor? Add an extra tea bag or a pinch of ground bergamot. Prefer a sweeter glaze? Adjust the sugar-to-lemon ratio to suit your taste.
7. Store for Maximum Freshness
- To keep your cookies tasting their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Pro Tip: Place a slice of bread in the container with your cookies to keep them soft and chewy!
Storage & Freezing Tips for Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Once you’ve baked these delightful Earl Grey Sugar Cookies, you’ll want to keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store and freeze them like a pro:
1. Storing at Room Temperature
- Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Pro Tip: Add a slice of bread to the container. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread, staying soft and chewy for days!
2. Freezing Baked Cookies
- To freeze baked cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 1–2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 1 month.
Pro Tip: Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
3. Freezing Cookie Dough
- If you’d like to bake cookies fresh later, you can freeze the dough instead. Scoop the dough into evenly sized balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm.
- Once the dough balls are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll remain fresh and ready to bake for up to 2 months.
Pro Tip: When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
4. Thawing and Serving
- To thaw frozen cookies, let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. For a warm, fresh-from-the-oven feel, pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- If using frozen dough, bake directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Pro Tip: Drizzle fresh lemon glaze over thawed cookies for a burst of flavor and a beautiful finish.
Related Recipes
If you loved these Earl Grey Sugar Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these other delightful recipes. Each one brings its own unique twist to classic flavors, making them perfect for your next baking adventure. Here are a few favorites to inspire you:
1. Matcha White Chocolate Cookies
- These cookies combine the earthy flavor of matcha green tea with creamy white chocolate chunks for a sweet and slightly bitter balance. Perfect for matcha lovers!
Pro Tip: Use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
2. Chai-Spiced Sugar Cookies
- Infused with warm chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, these cookies are a cozy treat for chilly days.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick of warmth.
3. Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
- Buttery, crumbly shortbread cookies with a hint of floral lavender and a zesty lemon glaze. They’re elegant, fragrant, and perfect for tea time.
Pro Tip: Use culinary-grade lavender to ensure the best flavor and safety.
4. Chocolate Chai Snickerdoodles
- A fun twist on the classic snickerdoodle, these cookies feature a rich chocolate base and a chai-spiced sugar coating.
Pro Tip: Roll the dough balls in a mix of sugar and chai spices for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Earl Grey Tea Cake
- If you’re a fan of Earl Grey, you’ll love this moist and fragrant tea cake. It’s perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of honey glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Each of these recipes is designed to bring a little extra joy to your baking routine. Whether you’re a fan of tea-infused treats or just love trying new flavors, there’s something here for everyone. Happy baking
Call to Action
Now that you’ve discovered how easy and delightful these Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are to make, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking! Here’s how you can take the next step and make this recipe your own:
1. Try the Recipe Today
- Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into this fun and rewarding baking project. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be approachable and enjoyable.
Pro Tip: Set aside some time to enjoy the process – baking is as much about the journey as it is about the delicious results!
2. Share Your Creations
- We’d love to see how your cookies turn out! Snap a photo of your Earl Grey Sugar Cookies and share it on Instagram or Pinterest. Don’t forget to tag us and use the hashtag #EarlGreyDelight so we can celebrate your baking success together.
Pro Tip: A well-lit photo with a cozy background (think teacups or fresh lemons) can make your cookies look even more inviting!
3. Leave a Comment or Review
- Did you love the recipe? Have a question or suggestion? Drop a comment below and let us know how it went. Your feedback helps us improve and inspires other bakers to try the recipe too.
4. Explore More Recipes
- If you enjoyed these cookies, why not try another tea-inspired treat? Check out our recipes for Matcha White Chocolate Cookies or Chai-Spiced Sugar Cookies for more delicious ideas.
Baking is all about creativity, connection, and joy. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s make some magic together. Happy baking!
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Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 180 g 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag or 1 tbsp loose tea leaves, finely ground
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 115 g ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 150 g ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 120 g 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice adjust to preferred consistency
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional for extra zing
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir on low until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions, roll into balls, and place on the baking sheet, spaced 5 cm apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden, but centers remain soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
Make the Lemon Glaze:
- Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness with more lemon juice or powdered sugar.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the glaze set for 15–20 minutes before serving.
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Notes
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Potassium: 30mg
- Calcium: 5mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
There you have it – a recipe for Earl Grey Sugar Cookies that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat! These cookies are the perfect blend of fragrant Earl Grey tea, soft and chewy texture, and a tangy lemon glaze that ties it all together. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy tea time, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. The unique flavor of Earl Grey paired with the bright citrusy glaze creates a treat that’s both elegant and comforting. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s bake something extraordinary together. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #EarlGreyDelight – we’d love to see your results!
FAQ About Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Got questions about these Earl Grey Sugar Cookies? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions and answers to help you bake with confidence:
1. Can I use loose-leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?
Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of finely ground loose-leaf Earl Grey tea. Grinding the leaves ensures they blend smoothly into the dough without leaving large pieces.
2. Can I skip the lemon glaze?
Of course! The cookies are delicious on their own, or you can try a different glaze, like vanilla or orange, for a fun twist.
3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay soft and fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 1 month.
4. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
5. What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
For accuracy, use a kitchen scale to weigh the flour. If using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing too much flour into the dough.
If you have more questions or need tips, feel free to leave a comment below. We’re here to help you bake the perfect batch of Earl Grey Sugar Cookies