Fragrant, buttery, and slightly floral – these Earl Grey cookies are a cozy treat that brings a touch of elegance to any moment. Whether you’re planning a tea party, baking for a loved one, or just craving something different from the usual chocolate chip, this recipe delivers a balance of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.
I’ve tested this recipe over dozens of batches, adjusting steeping times and tea types until the taste was just right. The result is a crisp, delicate cookie infused with real Earl Grey tea and bright citrus zest. And if you’re gluten-free or vegan, don’t worry – there’s a variation for you too. And if you love trying unique desserts, you might also enjoy these 3-ingredient banana muffins or our vegan brownie recipe.
Let’s break down why you’re going to want to make these cookies again and again.
Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey Cookies
- Big flavor, simple ingredients. Real tea leaves, orange zest, and butter make every bite pop with citrusy aroma and creamy texture.
- Customizable. Whether you prefer floral (lavender), chocolatey, or nutty variations, this base recipe works with all kinds of tweaks.
- Perfect for gifting or gatherings. These cookies hold their shape well and look beautiful with a dusting of sugar or a drizzle of glaze.
- Not just for tea lovers. Even if you’re not big on drinking tea, the way it blends into the cookie dough adds a subtle, almost vanilla-like floral note.
- Freezer-friendly. You can make the dough ahead and bake them fresh whenever the craving hits.
- Gluten-free & vegan Earl Grey cookie options. We’ve got versions for every pantry and dietary need.
- They can also fit into balanced eating habits – just like our gluten-free and dairy-free breakfast ideas.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Earl Grey Cookies
Core Ingredients for Earl Grey Cookies
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps infuse tea flavor.
- Granulated sugar – For just the right sweetness and structure.
- Earl Grey tea – Use high-quality loose leaf or crushed tea bags.
- All-purpose flour – The base for structure.
- Orange zest – Enhances the bergamot notes in the tea.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and brightens flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
- Bergamot oil – Boosts citrus depth if you want a stronger flavor.
- Chocolate chips – Dark or white chocolate pairs well with the tea.
- Lavender buds – For a floral twist.
- Almond flour – Great for gluten-free swaps.
- Lemon glaze or powdered sugar – Optional topping for presentation.
- For those focusing on protein-rich baking, check out our high protein overnight oats or these chewy protein bagels.
How to Make Earl Grey Cookies (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in just a few simple steps. If you’re using loose leaf tea, you’ll get the best flavor by infusing the butter first – it makes a noticeable difference.
Infuse the Butter with Earl Grey Tea
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the Earl Grey tea leaves (crushed slightly if whole) and let steep for 5–7 minutes.
- Strain the butter through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
- Let the butter cool completely before using it in the dough.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and any dry add-ins like orange zest or lavender.
- This step ensures even distribution and prevents clumping.
Combine and Chill the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat the cooled tea-infused butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Slowly stir in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps the cookies from spreading too much.
Shape and Bake the Earl Grey Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough or scoop it using a cookie scoop, depending on your desired shape.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are just lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Flavor Pairing Ideas for Earl Grey Cookies
This tea-infused shortbread have a floral, citrusy profile that pairs well with both sweet and savory options. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet tea break, these pairing ideas will elevate the experience.
Best Teas to Serve with Earl Grey Cookies
- Chamomile – Mild and floral, it complements without overpowering.
- English Breakfast – Offers a strong contrast to the lightness of the cookie.
- Lady Grey – A milder, fruitier version of Earl Grey that layers well.
- Jasmine green tea – A refreshing floral note that enhances the bergamot flavor.
Sweet Pairings
- Lemon curd or lemon glaze – Adds brightness and intensifies the citrus.
- Honey or honeycomb – Softens and rounds out the sharpness of the tea.
- White chocolate chunks – Smooth and sweet, they contrast the tannins in the tea.
Savory Pairings for
- Goat cheese or brie – Their creamy, tangy flavor works beautifully with the cookie’s sweetness.
- Herbed nuts – A crunchy, salty snack that balances the cookie’s soft texture.
- Olives or tapenade – For a more adventurous snack board, pair a mild tapenade with cookies for contrast.
Recipe Variations for Earl Grey Cookies
There’s more than one way to enjoy this tea-infused shortbread. Whether you need a dietary swap or want to experiment with flavor, these easy variations keep things fresh while sticking to the tea-forward base.
Gluten-Free Earl Grey Cookies
Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend (preferably one that includes xanthan gum).
Tip: Add 1–2 tablespoons of almond flour for extra richness and better texture.
Vegan Earl Grey Cookies
- Use vegan butter or refined coconut oil.
- Replace the egg (if using) with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water (let sit for 5 minutes).
- Choose sugar brands labeled vegan (some refined sugars aren’t).
Earl Grey Chocolate Chip Cookies
Add ½ cup of dark or white chocolate chips to the dough.
The bittersweet notes of chocolate balance the floral tones of the tea.
Lemon Earl Grey Cookies
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and increase the zest to 1 full lemon.
You can also drizzle with a lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice after baking.
Lavender Earl Grey Cookies
Add 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the dry mix.
The lavender enhances the floral notes of bergamot and creates a more delicate flavor.
If you prefer lighter, nutrient-packed options, our healthy smoothies are another great way to complement your baking routine.
Tips for Best Results When Baking This tea-infused shortbread
Even a simple recipe like this one can benefit from a few smart tricks. These tips help make sure your Earl Grey cookies turn out flavorful, crisp-edged, and picture-perfect every time.
Use Quality Earl Grey Tea
- Loose leaf tea delivers the strongest, freshest flavor.
- If using bags, choose a premium brand and crush the leaves slightly to release more oils.
Steep Butter, Don’t Rush It
- Allow the tea to fully infuse the melted butter for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid boiling – low and slow releases flavor without bitterness.
Chill the Dough
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Chilled dough bakes more evenly and holds its shape better.
Don’t Overbake
- Bake just until the edges are lightly golden — the centers will set as they cool.
- Overbaking dries out the cookies and dulls the flavor.
Enhance the Citrus
- Use fresh zest (orange or lemon) and avoid bottled flavorings.
- Optional: a drop of food-safe bergamot oil can boost depth.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze dough logs or shaped rounds and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.
FAQs About Earl Grey Cookies
Yes. Black teas like English Breakfast or Darjeeling work as substitutes, but they’ll lack the citrusy bergamot note. Green tea and chai create entirely new flavor profiles.
Earl Grey tea is flavored with bergamot, a citrus fruit. When baked into cookies, it creates a floral, slightly citrusy taste that’s unique compared to traditional shortbread.
Yes, they usually contain a small amount of caffeine since they’re made with black tea. If you want a caffeine-free version, use decaf Earl Grey tea.
Loose leaf tea gives a stronger flavor and is usually higher quality. If you only have tea bags, crush the leaves slightly before adding them to the butter or dough.
Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months. Slice and bake when ready.
While there’s no single origin story, Earl Grey cookies are inspired by classic shortbread recipes from Britain, infused with the popular tea blend named after British Prime Minister Charles Grey.
Earl Grey Cookies vs. Other Tea Cookies
Curious how Black tea cookies stack up against other popular tea-based cookies? Here’s a quick comparison to highlight what makes them unique.
| Feature | Earl Grey Cookies | Chai Cookies | Green Tea Cookies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Floral, citrusy, smooth | Spicy, warming (cinnamon, cardamom) | Earthy, slightly bitter |
| Best Pairings | Citrus, chocolate, honey | Nuts, caramel, warm milk | White chocolate, berries |
| Texture Style | Buttery, crisp edges | Soft, chewy | Dense or chewy |
| Occasion Fit | Tea parties, gifting, elegant desserts | Cozy gatherings, fall baking | Trendy, modern desserts |
| Caffeine Level | Moderate (from black tea) | Moderate (black tea + spices) | Low to moderate |
Takeaway: Earl Grey cookies stand out for their refined balance of citrus and floral notes, making them versatile for both casual snacking and special occasions.
Nutrition & Allergen Info for Earl Grey Cookies
These numbers are approximate and based on one standard Earl Grey cookie (about 25g each). Actual values will vary depending on ingredients and add-ins.
| Nutrient (per cookie) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 60 mg |
Allergen Notes
- Gluten: Present in all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free flour blend for substitutions.
- Dairy: Traditional recipe uses butter. Swap for vegan butter or coconut oil for dairy-free.
- Eggs: Some variations use eggs; they can be replaced with flaxseed or chia gel.
- Nuts: Recipe is naturally nut-free but can include almond flour for gluten-free adjustments.
Tip: Always check your tea brand. Some Earl Grey blends may contain added flavorings or allergens.
Crisp & Aromatic Earl Grey Cookies with Citrus and Bergamot
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Saucepan (for butter infusion)
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Baking sheet + parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Base for Earl Grey Cookies
- 1 cup 227 g unsalted butter, softened (sub: vegan butter)
- ¾ cup 150 g granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons loose leaf Earl Grey tea or 3 crushed tea bags, decaf optional
- 2 cups 250 g all-purpose flour (sub: gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest or lemon zest for variation
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup 90 g dark or white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 –2 drops food-grade bergamot oil for stronger citrus flavor
Instructions
- Infuse the Butter with Earl Grey Tea. Melt butter over low heat, add tea leaves, and steep 5–7 minutes. Strain and cool completely.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients. Beat the cooled butter with sugar until fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients. Whisk flour, salt, and zest in a separate bowl. Gradually fold into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
- Shape the Cookies. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into balls or slice from a log. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake. Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool on sheet 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Optional Finish. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with lemon glaze, or dip in chocolate for variety.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per cookie, ~25 g)
SERVING: 25g | CALORIES: 120 kcal | CARBOHYDRATES: 15 g | PROTEIN: 1.5 g | FAT: 6 g | SATURATED FAT: 3.5 g | CHOLESTEROL: 15 mg | SODIUM: 60 mg | POTASSIUM: 35 mg | FIBER: 0.5 g | SUGAR: 7 g | VITAMIN A: 120 IU | VITAMIN C: 0.5 mg | CALCIUM: 10 mg | IRON: 0.5 mgEstimated Recipe Cost
- Total cost (24 cookies): ~$6.50
- Breakdown:
- Butter: $2.50
- Earl Grey tea: $1.50
- Flour: $0.75
- Sugar: $0.50
- Zest & vanilla: $1.25
Recipe Notes
- Substitutions: Use lemon zest instead of orange; swap butter for vegan butter; use gluten-free flour blend.
- Storage: Store in airtight container for 1 week. Freeze dough logs up to 2 months.
- Variations: Try Earl Grey chocolate chip cookies, lavender Earl Grey cookies, or lemon glaze topping.
- Pro Tips: Always chill the dough; don’t overbake (edges only golden). Loose leaf tea gives best results.
- Diet: Vegetarian. Can be made vegan or gluten-free with listed swaps.
- FAQs:
- Are Earl Grey cookies caffeinated? Yes, unless you use decaf tea.
- Can I make the dough ahead? Yes, refrigerate up to 48 hours.
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Did you try these Earl Grey cookies? Share your results in the comments or tag us on Instagram with your creations!Final Thoughts on Earl Grey Cookies + Share Your Experience
Earl Grey cookies are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a little bite of elegance. With their citrusy bergamot aroma and buttery texture, they strike the perfect balance between familiar comfort and something refreshingly different. Whether you bake them for a tea party, a holiday tray, or a cozy night in, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn – bake a batch and see why Earl Grey cookies have become a favorite for tea lovers and bakers alike.
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below with your results, or snap a photo and tag us on Instagram. We love seeing your creations!
