Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

These Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of Earl Grey tea with the aromatic touch of dried lavender. Perfect for tea parties, special occasions, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies stand out with their unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation. With a soft and chewy texture, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The infusion of Earl Grey tea and lavender gives these cookies a sophisticated taste that is unlike any ordinary cookie.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon tea or a dessert for a gathering, these cookies are versatile and appealing to many.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful treat.
• Visually Stunning: Topped with blue cornflower petals, these cookies not only taste great but also look beautiful on any platter.
• Chewy Texture: The buttery base combined with the right baking time results in cookies that are perfectly chewy.

Tools and Preparation

To create your own batch of Lavender Earl Grey Cookies, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Using quality equipment ensures better results and a smoother baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills or mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a well-mixed dough.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents cookies from sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 2 ¼ cups (9.5 ounces or 270 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon finely ground Earl Grey tea (from 3 tea bags or 4 teaspoons loose leaf tea)
• ½ teaspoon culinary-grade lavender, finely ground
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For Sweetness and Flavor

• 1 ¼ cup (8.80 ounces or 250 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (8 ounces or 227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For Topping

• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• Blue cornflower petals

How to Make Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Ground Earl Grey tea
3. Culinary-grade lavender
4. Baking powder
5. Baking soda
6. Kosher salt

Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Add one large egg and two teaspoons of pure vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet:
1. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
2. Sprinkle each cookie with granulated sugar and add blue cornflower petals on top for decoration.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown:
1. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Enjoy your delicious Lavender Earl Grey Cookies!

How to Serve Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

These Lavender Earl Grey cookies are delightful on their own but can be even more enjoyable with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea for a harmonious flavor experience. The citrus notes in the tea complement the floral hints of the cookies.

Garnished with Edible Flowers

• Add a touch of elegance by garnishing your cookies with blue cornflower petals. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a subtle floral note.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like macarons and brownies. This variety will impress your guests and create a colorful display.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the cookies alongside fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over each cookie adds a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the lavender flavor.

How to Perfect Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Lavender Earl Grey cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Allow Cookies to Cool Completely: Let them cool on a wire rack to maintain their chewy texture and enhance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

Pairing these cookies with complementary side dishes can enhance your snack time or dessert experience. Consider these tasty options.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits helps cleanse the palate and adds freshness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a satisfying treat that balances sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the floral flavors.
4. Tea Sandwiches: Light sandwiches filled with cucumber or cream cheese provide a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
5. Scones: Serve with clotted cream and jam for an indulgent pairing that complements tea time.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add richness and decadence, making them an irresistible combination with your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with delicate flavors like lavender and Earl Grey. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best Lavender Earl Grey Cookies.

• Using the wrong tea – Using a different type of tea can alter the flavor significantly. Stick to Earl Grey for the best results.
• Skipping the grinding step – Not finely grinding the tea and lavender can lead to an uneven texture. Use a spice grinder for a fine powder.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for chewy, tender cookies.
• Ignoring temperature guidelines – Starting with room temperature butter is crucial for proper creaming. Cold butter won’t incorporate air effectively.
• Not chilling the dough – Skipping chilling time can cause cookies to spread too much. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for optimal softness.
• Microwave – Heat for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until soft, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lavender Earl Grey Cookies.

What makes these Lavender Earl Grey Cookies unique?

The infusion of floral flavors from lavender and bergamot oil in Earl Grey tea creates a distinctive taste that elevates traditional cookie recipes.

Can I use other types of tea in this recipe?

While this recipe is specifically designed for Earl Grey, you can experiment with similar teas like Lady Grey or other floral teas, but expect different flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my Lavender Earl Grey Cookies are chewy?

Avoid overbaking and allow them to cool on the baking sheet before transferring. This helps maintain their chewy texture.

Can I customize this Lavender Earl Grey Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even citrus zest for varied flavors while maintaining the primary essence of lavender and Earl Grey.

How long does it take to make these cookies?

From start to finish, you’ll need about 37 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes! Their unique flavor and beautiful appearance make them perfect gifts or party treats.

Final Thoughts

These Lavender Earl Grey Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a delightful twist on traditional cookies that is sure to impress friends and family. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or variations!