A Floral Summer Cookie with a Twist
There’s something uniquely soothing about Earl Grey tea—the floral, citrusy aroma of bergamot, the mellow black tea base, and the warm steam rising from a freshly brewed cup. But have you ever thought of baking that comfort into a cookie?
That’s exactly what inspired these Earl Grey Cookies. With their buttery texture, delicate crumb, and hints of black tea and bergamot, they bring a touch of elegance to your summer dessert table. Whether you’re sipping iced tea on the porch, hosting a weekend brunch, or just want something special to nibble with a glass of lemonade, these cookies are the perfect match.
Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey Cookies
These Earl Grey Cookies aren’t just another tea-infused treat. They’re:
- Bright & Floral: Thanks to the natural citrusy notes of bergamot in the tea.
- Soft and Buttery: A melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-style cookie with a tender texture.
- Perfect for Chilling: The dough can be made ahead and baked fresh as needed.
- Summer-Friendly: Pair them with iced tea, lemonade, or cold-brew for a refreshing combo.
- Picnic-Ready: These cookies pack well and don’t melt—perfect for outdoor gatherings.
A Personal Touch
The first time I made Earl Grey Cookies was after visiting a charming café in Savannah that served lavender scones with Earl Grey icing. I couldn’t get the flavor out of my head—the tea added a sophistication that elevated everything. When I returned home, I started testing different cookie variations, and after several batches (and several pots of tea), these cookies were born.
They quickly became a favorite at family reunions, bridal showers, and lazy summer afternoons. If you’re looking for a refined cookie that still feels nostalgic and comforting, this is it.
Ingredients for Earl Grey Cookies
These Earl Grey Cookies are simple to prepare and use easy-to-source ingredients, but every element plays a role in delivering their distinctive texture and flavor. The infusion of finely ground Earl Grey tea into a buttery dough creates a cookie that’s rich, fragrant, and just the right balance of crisp and tender.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (from 3–4 bags or loose leaf)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for a soft bite)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for a balanced sweetness)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons milk or cream (if needed, for dough consistency)
Optional Enhancements:
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (brightens the tea flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for a melt-in-your-mouth texture)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (adds depth, if desired)
Ingredient Notes and Tips:
- Earl Grey Tea: Use high-quality loose-leaf or carefully cut open tea bags. The finer the grind, the more evenly it will incorporate into the dough.
- Butter: Room-temperature butter ensures even blending and helps the tea flavor steep right into the dough.
- Sugars: A mix of powdered and granulated sugars gives you crisp edges and a tender center—ideal for tea cookies.
- Citrus Zest: A common pairing with Earl Grey, lemon zest amplifies the floral notes and adds brightness that’s perfect for summer.
This dough can be used for slice-and-bake cookies or rolled and cut into shapes, making it flexible for various occasions and presentations.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Earl Grey Cookies
These Earl Grey Cookies are buttery, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make. You don’t need any special equipment—just a mixing bowl, a rolling pin (optional), and your favorite baking sheet.
Step 1: Grind the Tea
Use a spice grinder, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle to finely grind your Earl Grey tea leaves until they resemble powder. This ensures the tea fully incorporates into the dough and doesn’t leave coarse, chewy bits.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Finely ground Earl Grey tea
- Salt
- Powdered sugar
- Granulated sugar
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy—about 1–2 minutes. Add vanilla extract (and almond extract or citrus zest, if using), then mix to combine.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry mixture into the butter, mixing on low speed. If the dough feels too crumbly, add 1–2 teaspoons of milk or cream until it comes together into a soft, pliable dough.
Do not overmix—stop as soon as the flour is incorporated.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a log (for slice-and-bake cookies) or flatten into a disc (for rolled cookies). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents spreading and allows the tea flavor to steep into the dough.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 7: Slice or Roll the Dough
- For slice-and-bake: Cut ¼-inch thick rounds from the chilled log.
- For rolled cookies: Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thick on a floured surface and cut with cookie cutters.
Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain pale.
Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Add a Glaze
For an elegant finish, whisk together:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or milk
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla or Earl Grey tea infusion
Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set for 15 minutes.
Pro Tip: For a crispier cookie, bake an extra 1–2 minutes. For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, pull them out as soon as the edges turn golden.
Storage, Variations, and Make-Ahead Tips
These Earl Grey Cookies are as convenient as they are elegant. With just a bit of planning, you can enjoy them fresh, freeze them for later, or customize the flavor to suit different occasions—all while keeping that signature Earl Grey charm.
How to Store Earl Grey Cookies
At Room Temperature
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place.
- They stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- For best flavor and texture, eat within 3 days.
In the Refrigerator
- Not necessary for fully baked cookies, but okay if you live in a humid climate.
- Always bring refrigerated cookies to room temperature before serving.
How to Freeze Earl Grey Cookie Dough
Freezing the Dough Log (Slice-and-Bake Method)
- Shape the dough into a log and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Label and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to bake, slice frozen (no thawing needed) and add 1–2 minutes to baking time.
Freezing Cookie Shapes (Cut-Out Method)
- Roll and cut the dough.
- Freeze raw cookie shapes on a tray for 1 hour.
- Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or container with parchment between layers.
- Bake from frozen at 350°F for 12–14 minutes.
Freezing Baked Cookies
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Layer with parchment and store in an airtight container.
- Defrost at room temperature or re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes.
Flavor Variations for Earl Grey Cookies
Looking to customize your Earl Grey Cookies for a tea party, shower, or gift box? Here are a few easy and crowd-pleasing twists:
1. Lavender Earl Grey
- Add 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender with the tea.
- Pairs beautifully with lemon glaze.
2. Lemon Zest & Glaze
- Add the zest of one lemon to the dough.
- Drizzle with a simple lemon juice and powdered sugar glaze.
3. Vanilla Earl Grey with White Chocolate
- Fold in ⅓ cup white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy balance.
4. Honey Glazed
- Brush warm cookies with a mixture of honey and hot water for a sticky, floral finish.
5. Chocolate-Dipped
- Dip one half of each cooled cookie in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning for a party or weekend bake? Here’s how to prepare ahead:
- Make the dough up to 3 days in advance and keep it chilled.
- Prepare logs or cut-outs and freeze until ready to bake.
- Glaze cookies the day before serving to allow them to fully set.
- Store cooled cookies in decorative tins with parchment between layers for easy transport or gifting.
Serving Ideas, Summer Pairings, and When to Bake Earl Grey Cookies
Earl Grey isn’t just for rainy afternoons and porcelain teacups—it shines in the summer too. With its citrusy bergamot notes and delicate flavor, Earl Grey Cookies are a refined yet laid-back treat that fits perfectly into sunny-day gatherings, afternoon snacks, and breezy desserts.
Best Ways to Serve Earl Grey Cookies
1. Afternoon Refreshment
Serve your Earl Grey Cookies with iced Earl Grey tea or cold brew coffee on the patio. Add a small bowl of whipped mascarpone or lemon curd for dipping, and you’ve got a chic midday break.
2. Summer Brunch Table
Pair with fresh berries, lemon yogurt, and scones for a full tea-inspired brunch spread. They also look stunning stacked on a tiered serving tray alongside fruit tarts or mini muffins.
3. Ice Cream Sandwiches
Use your cookies as sandwich bases with vanilla bean or honey lavender ice cream in the middle. Freeze for 30 minutes and serve as an elevated summer dessert.
4. Cookie Charcuterie Boards
Combine Earl Grey Cookies with shortbread, biscotti, candied nuts, and seasonal fruits like figs or cherries. Add a small jar of lemon glaze or fruit preserves for contrast.
5. Gift Boxes or Party Favors
Wrap a few cookies in parchment and twine, and tuck into a linen bag or clear favor box. Perfect for bridal showers, birthdays, or thank-you gifts.
Ideal Pairings for Summer
Beverages:
- Iced Earl Grey with lemon
- Hibiscus iced tea with honey
- Sparkling lemonade
- Chilled vanilla chai
- Lemon rosemary infused water
Other Foods:
- Lemon bars
- Light fruit salads
- Tea sandwiches
- Berry pavlova
- Almond cake
When to Bake Earl Grey Cookies
While these cookies are perfect year-round, here are some especially great summer occasions:
- Garden parties or afternoon teas
- Bridal showers or baby showers
- Elegant picnic baskets
- Post-dinner bites at a summer dinner party
- As a lighter dessert option after grilled meals
They’re just indulgent enough to feel special but light and fragrant enough to suit warm weather. And since they’re so quick to make, you can prep the dough in the morning and bake fresh just before guests arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any brand of Earl Grey tea?
Yes, but quality matters. Choose a tea with a strong bergamot aroma. Loose leaf is ideal, but tea bags from brands like Twinings or Tazo also work. Make sure to grind the tea finely before using.
Q: Do Earl Grey Cookies actually taste like tea?
They do, subtly. You’ll taste warm vanilla, light citrus, and a gentle floral aroma. If you want a stronger tea flavor, increase the tea by ½ tablespoon and pair it with citrus zest.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum. The texture may be slightly more delicate but still delicious.
Q: How long does the dough need to chill?
At least 1 hour, though overnight is even better. Chilling firms the dough, enhances the flavor, and ensures the cookies hold their shape when baked.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, and that’s part of what makes this recipe summer-friendly. The dough keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes well for up to 2 months.