Tea isn’t just for sipping—it’s also a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into your baking. Infusing cookies with tea not only enhances their flavor but also adds a unique twist that can impress friends and family. If you’re looking for a creative way to elevate your baking, try this recipe for Earl Grey-infused cookies.
Earl Grey Tea Cookies
Earl Grey tea, known for its distinctive bergamot flavor, is a perfect candidate for adding a sophisticated touch to cookies. Here’s a simple recipe that combines the aromatic qualities of Earl Grey with a buttery cookie base.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves (from 2 tea bags)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Tea: Grind the Earl Grey tea leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This will help the tea infuse evenly into the cookie dough.
- Mix the Dough: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground tea leaves. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down each ball with the back of a spoon to flatten slightly. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for added sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking with tea has been a delightful adventure, and these Earl Grey-infused cookies quickly became a favorite in my household. The bergamot aroma from the tea adds a subtle yet sophisticated flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie base. The cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or as a unique treat to share with guests.
Incorporating tea into baking not only adds a layer of complexity to your recipes but also allows you to explore new flavor combinations. At Tea Trunk, we celebrate the versatility of tea and encourage you to experiment with it in your culinary creations. Try this Earl Grey cookie recipe to discover how tea can transform your baking and bring a touch of innovation to your kitchen.
