Cozy Chai Sugar Cookies
These chai sugar cookies are buttery, sweet treats infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. They are baked until golden with a slightly crispy exterior and a tender, chewy interior, offering a nostalgic, spicy aroma in every bite. Perfect for cozy nights or rainy afternoons, they evoke comfort and homemade charm.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or sturdy spoon
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free
- 1 cup granulated sugar for sweetness and crunch
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, pepper
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 egg or flaxseed egg for vegan
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and helps the cookies bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon. Whip until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and fragrant—about 3 minutes. You’ll notice it becomes slightly glossy and light in color.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until just combined, about 30 seconds. The mixture should look smooth and slightly thickened, with a sweet aroma wafting up.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, chai spice blend, and sea salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a dough forms. It will be slightly sticky but manageable.
- If the dough feels too soft or sticky, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This helps the dough relax and prevents spreading during baking.
- Once chilled, dust your work surface lightly with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or a glass about 5cm in diameter to cut out rounds. Place the cookies evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn a golden brown and emit a warm, spicy aroma. The cookies should crackle slightly when you remove them, indicating they’re perfectly set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps prevent breakage and allows the flavors to deepen as they rest.
- Once cooled, enjoy these cozy cookies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. Their fragrant spices and crispy-chewy texture make them a delightful treat that’s perfect for any relaxing moment.