Name: Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tbsp culinary lavender; 2 Earl Grey tea bags; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Salt; Baking powder

If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a delightful dessert, the Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are just the ticket. These cookies bring together the unique floral notes of lavender with the distinctive bergamot flavor of Earl Grey tea, creating a truly special treat. Perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies offer a unique twist on classic sugar cookies that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy the aromatic happiness in your kitchen!

This recipe shines not only for its flavor but also for the beautiful aroma that wafts through the air as they bake. The combination of lavender and Earl Grey tea provides a refreshing and soothing experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re a tea lover or just in need of a new cookie recipe, these Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are sure to become a favorite. With their exquisite flavors and charming appearance, these cookies truly elevate any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies

Exquisite Flavor: The infusion of lavender and Earl Grey tea gives these cookies a unique taste profile that is both floral and citrusy.
Visual Appeal: These cookies look beautiful, making them a lovely addition to any gathering or special event.
Easy to Make: The simple preparation and bake time means you can whip them up quickly with minimal hassle.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just need a sweet treat, these cookies are ideal.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Suitable for a variety of diets as they contain no animal products other than butter.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin baking these delightful cookies, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s at the right temperature before your cookies go in. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the dry ingredients, another for creaming the butter and sugar, and a grinder or food processor to achieve a fine powder for your lavender and tea.

Next, make sure you have a hand mixer or stand mixer available for creaming your butter and sugar efficiently. Additionally, having measuring cups and spoons handy will help you accurately portion your ingredients, leading to the best results. With everything prepped, you’re ready to dive into making these Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp culinary lavender
2 Earl Grey tea bags
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
Salt
Baking powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure that your cookies bake evenly and attain the perfect texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and baking powder. This dry mixture forms the base of your cookies, so ensure it’s evenly combined to avoid any lumps. Set it aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This process will incorporate air into your mixture, leading to soft and tender cookies.

Step 4: Add Lavender and Earl Grey

Carefully grind the culinary lavender and the contents of the Earl Grey tea bags into a fine powder. This can be done using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Once ground, add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Incorporate it thoroughly, adding in the large egg and vanilla extract at this stage as well.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Take your dough and shape it into balls, then place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between them to allow for spreading while baking. Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of lavender and bergamot!

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, allow your cookies to cool completely on a wire rack for the best texture. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear!

Variations

Protein: Add a sprinkle of crushed almonds or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated lemon zest for an additional burst of citrus that complements the bergamot beautifully.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger for an extra layer of flavor, particularly if you enjoy a spiced twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined.
Experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar, for a deeper flavor.
If using dried lavender from a store, ensure it is culinary-grade for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea to enhance the flavor experience.
Serve them alongside a refreshing glass of lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.

Tips

For a beautiful presentation, dust your cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness throughout the week.
For a fun twist, drizzle with a lemon glaze after baking for added sweetness and flavor.
Chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking to achieve thicker cookies with a chewy center.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 150 per cookie
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 55mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, but be sure to use only a small amount as fresh lavender is more potent than dried. A teaspoon of finely chopped fresh lavender should suffice.

Can I substitute the butter with a vegan alternative?

Absolutely! You can use vegan butter or coconut oil as a substitute to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a workable consistency.

How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for the best freshness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lavender Earl Grey Sugar Cookies are an exquisite treat that perfectly balances unique flavors with the classic cookie experience. Not only are they simple to make, but they also impress with their delightful aroma and beautiful appearance. These cookies are perfect for special occasions, tea parties, or even just a cozy night in. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the magical combination of lavender and bergamot. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below or explore variations of your own!