Earl Grey Cookies

Introduction:
If you’re a fan of tea-flavored treats, these Earl Grey Cookies are sure to be your next favorite dessert. Infused with the fragrant and citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea, these buttery cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack or as an elegant addition to a tea party. Their delicate flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Inspiration Behind Earl Grey Cookies:
Inspired by the classic flavor of Earl Grey tea, these cookies capture the essence of bergamot and tea leaves in every bite. The simplicity of the recipe lets the flavors of the tea shine through, making them a refined and sophisticated treat.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons loose-leaf Earl Grey tea (about 3-4 tea bags worth)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare the Tea-Infused Dough:

   • In a food processor or a blender, pulse the loose Earl Grey tea leaves until finely ground. Set aside.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
   • Add the ground Earl Grey tea, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until combined.

2. Add the Flour:

   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Shape the Dough:

   • Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

4. Preheat and Slice:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Once the dough is chilled and firm, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

5. Bake:

   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Serve:

   • Serve the Earl Grey cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or on their own as a light, sweet snack.

Tips for the Perfect Earl Grey Cookies:

1. Use High-Quality Tea: The flavor of the cookies is directly influenced by the quality of your tea. Choose a premium Earl Grey with strong bergamot notes.
2. Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking.
3. Dust with Sugar: For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar after baking.

Variations and Customizations:

1. Lemon Earl Grey Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
2. Glazed Earl Grey Cookies: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies for added sweetness.
3. Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each baked cookie into melted white or dark chocolate for a decadent touch.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

• Moderate Sugar: While these cookies are rich in flavor, they aren’t overly sweet, making them a more balanced treat.
• Customization for Dietary Needs: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version of these cookies.

FAQ:

1. Can I use bagged Earl Grey tea instead of loose-leaf?
   Yes! Simply cut open 3-4 tea bags and use the contents in place of loose-leaf tea.

2. How long do these cookies last?
   Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
   Absolutely! You can freeze the dough logs for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice the frozen dough and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

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