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Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

Delicate, buttery Earl Grey cookies infused with fragrant tea leaves offer a unique twist on a classic treat. With crisp edges and soft centers, they’re rolled in sugar for extra sparkle and sweetness. Perfect for tea lovers craving something cozy and indulgent alongside their cup.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Chill time 30 minutes
Total Time 49 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 218 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Plastic wrap
  • Baking trays

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 1 egg room temperature
  • ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp earl grey tea leaves about 3 tea bags
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract or paste

Dry Ingredients

  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp table salt or fine sea salt
  • ½ tsp baking soda

Rolling

  • 4 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions
 

  • Melt ½ cup unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves in a saucepan or microwave in 15-second intervals; let cool completely.
  • In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar until combined.
  • Add 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt; mix until no dry spots remain.
  • Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30–60 minutes or up to 2 days.
  • Preheat the oven to 325°F/163°C and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
  • Place 4 tablespoons granulated sugar in a small bowl.
  • Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of dough, roll in sugar, and place on trays 3–4 inches apart.
  • Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of dough, roll in sugar, and place on trays 3–4 inches apart.
  • Bake 9–11 minutes until edges are golden and set.
  • Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  • For rounder cookies, swirl a circular cutter or mug around the warm cookies.

Notes

  • For a stronger tea flavor, steep the butter with the tea leaves longer before straining or leaving the leaves in.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, grind the tea leaves before adding them to the butter.
  • Use room-temperature egg for easier mixing and smoother dough.