Imagine biting into a cookie that’s sweet and carries the delicate, citrusy aroma of Earl Grey tea. Sounds dreamy, right? These Earl Grey Cookies are a perfect blend of unique flavor and comforting familiarity, making them a must-try for tea lovers and dessert enthusiasts. Whether you’re hosting a cozy tea party, looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply craving a treat that’s a little out of the ordinary, these cookies deliver.
With their irresistible citrus flavor and aromatic tea-infused dough, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up using pantry staples. Plus, they’re versatile—pair them with your favorite cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. Ready to bake something as delightful to make as it is to eat? Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that will become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Table of Contents
Key Benefits
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both comforting and a little fancy, Earl Grey Cookies are your answer. These treats are a delightful mix of familiar sweetness and Earl Grey tea’s unique, citrusy charm. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
- Unique and Flavorful: The bergamot in Earl Grey tea gives these cookies a subtle citrus kick, making them a refreshing change from ordinary cookies.
- Simple to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to master this recipe. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile and Fun: These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy tea time, a party, or a homemade gift for someone special.
- A Hint of Goodness: Earl Grey tea is known for its antioxidant benefits, so you can enjoy these cookies with a little extra peace of mind.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to get creative! Add chocolate chips, a dash of lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of edible flowers to make them your own.
These tea-infused cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a unique baking adventure that’s sure to impress. Ready to get started? Let’s gather our ingredients and bake something amazing!

Ingredients
Before we dive into baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful Earl Grey Cookies. Each component is carefully chosen to bring out the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s your checklist:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of your cookie dough. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can replace it with a gluten-free flour blend.
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves: Finely ground to ensure the tea flavor is evenly distributed. Loose-leaf tea works best for a robust taste.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a soft and tender texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened: This adds richness and helps create a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. To make it dairy-free, substitute with plant-based butter.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies while letting the tea’s unique flavor take center stage.
- ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel-like depth and keeps the cookies moist.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the dough together. If you need an egg-free option, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla complements the citrusy notes of the tea beautifully.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon citrus zest (lemon or orange): For an extra burst of citrus flavor, zest a lemon or orange into the dough.
- ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips: These add a creamy, sweet contrast to the tea-infused cookies.
Quick Tip:
If you’re using tea bags instead of loose-leaf tea, simply cut them open and finely grind the leaves. This ensures the tea flavor is evenly spread throughout the dough.
Instructions
Here’s how you can bake these irresistible Earl Grey cookies step by step:

1. Prepare the Dry Mix
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves.
- Tip: To get a finer texture, you can use a spice grinder or food processor to grind loose-leaf Earl Grey tea, helping it blend evenly into the dough.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, continuing to mix until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—this helps the cookies stay tender.
- Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up before shaping.
4. Shape the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Lightly press down on each ball with a spoon or your hand to flatten it slightly for even baking.
5. Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers may still look soft, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Optional Glaze
- For a sweet finishing touch, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream to create a smooth glaze. You can also add a dash of vanilla extract or a bit of orange zest for extra flavor.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for an elegant and delicious finish.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy your freshly baked Earl Grey cookies! These are perfect for savoring with a cup of tea or sharing with loved ones.
Pro Tips and Variations
Let’s take these Earl Grey cookies to the next level with some helpful tips and exciting variations! Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, these tips will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature, not melted. This will give your cookies the perfect texture—soft but firm enough to hold their shape. If you forget to take the butter out ahead of time, simply microwave it in 5-second bursts to soften, not melt.
- Tea Infusion: Grind the Earl Grey tea leaves finely for a smooth texture in your dough. You want to avoid large chunks that may disrupt the baking and flavor. If you’re using tea bags, be sure to remove the tea from the bag and grind it well.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Keep it gentle and quick!
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too sticky or you want to prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Exciting Variations to Try
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough to bring out a vibrant, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with Earl Grey’s floral flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a fan of chocolate, fold in chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Up: For an added layer of complexity, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the dry ingredients. These spices complement the tea’s flavors and give the cookies a warm, comforting feel.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the butter for coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version of these cookies.
For a Luxurious Touch
- Glaze Options: If you want to elevate the cookies further, try glazing them with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice for a zesty, tangy finish, or drizzle with a simple chocolate ganache for a rich treat.
No matter how you customize these cookies, they’ll always be a delightful, aromatic treat. Get creative and enjoy the process!
Serving Suggestions
These Earl Grey cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a cozy snack. Here are some serving suggestions to make your treat even more delightful:

1. Pair with Tea or Coffee
These cookies are the ideal companion to a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, enhancing the tea’s aromatic flavor with every bite. Alternatively, serve them with a rich coffee or a chai latte for a lovely contrast. The warm, comforting beverages will elevate the floral notes of the cookies.
2. Elegant Dessert Presentation
For a more formal touch, arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving platter alongside some fresh fruit or a selection of fine cheeses. This pairing adds sophistication and balances the sweetness of the cookies. A few sprigs of fresh mint or lavender can also make the display extra elegant.
3. Perfect for Gift-Giving
Wrap the cookies in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon, or place them in a decorative tin for a charming homemade gift. The unique, fragrant flavor of Earl Grey will make them a thoughtful and memorable present for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays.
4. Enjoy as a Snack or Breakfast
Earl Grey cookies aren’t just for special events—they also make a lovely snack for any time of day. Enjoy one (or two!) with your breakfast, paired with yogurt or fresh fruit for a sweet, balanced start to your morning. They also make for a delicious mid-afternoon pick-me-up!
5. Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
For a decadent dessert, crumble the cookies on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet. The contrasting textures of the cool ice cream and warm, soft cookies will delight your taste buds, creating the perfect indulgence.
With these serving ideas, you can enjoy your Earl Grey cookies in a variety of ways. Whether for casual enjoyment or an elegant event, these cookies will always impress!
Conclusion
There you have it—delicious, aromatic Earl Grey cookies that are sure to impress with every bite! Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, these cookies offer the perfect blend of rich, floral flavors and sweet, buttery goodness. They’re an ideal treat for tea lovers or anyone who enjoys a unique twist on classic cookies.
By following the simple steps in this recipe, you can create a batch of cookies that will fill your home with a delightful fragrance. Plus, with the helpful pro tips and fun variations, you can customize them to suit your taste or elevate your baking skills.
Remember, the key to success is in the details: make sure your butter is at the right temperature, don’t overmix the dough, and feel free to get creative with additional flavors or glaze options. With these pointers, your Earl Grey cookies will always turn out perfectly!
So go ahead, treat yourself to these comforting cookies, and enjoy them with your favorite tea or coffee. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tea in this recipe?
Absolutely! While u003cstrongu003eEarl Greyu003c/strongu003e is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other u003cstrongu003eflavored teasu003c/strongu003e like u003cstrongu003echaiu003c/strongu003e, u003cstrongu003ejasmineu003c/strongu003e, or u003cstrongu003egreen teau003c/strongu003e for a unique twist. Keep in mind that each tea will bring its flavor profile, so adjust the amount based on how strong you want the tea flavor to be.
2. How can I store my Earl Grey cookies?
After your cookies have cooled completely, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To prolong their freshness, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Be sure to wrap them securely in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe bag.
3. Can I prepare these cookies in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to two days. If you’re short on time, you can also roll the dough into balls, freeze them, and bake them directly from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
4. How can I tell when my cookies are fully baked?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges, with the centers looking slightly soft. Remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so don’t worry if they’re a little soft when you take them out of the oven.
5. Can I add extra flavorings or toppings?
Definitely! You can customize your cookies with a variety of add-ins, such as u003cstrongu003echopped chocolateu003c/strongu003e, u003cstrongu003ecandied gingeru003c/strongu003e, or even a sprinkle of u003cstrongu003esea saltu003c/strongu003e on top. For a beautiful finish, consider drizzling a u003cstrongu003elemon glazeu003c/strongu003e or adding a pinch of u003cstrongu003eorange zestu003c/strongu003e to complement the floral notes of the Earl Grey.
6. Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Earl Grey cookies make a fantastic homemade gift! Package them in a u003cstrongu003edecorative tinu003c/strongu003e or wrap them in u003cstrongu003ecellophane bagsu003c/strongu003e with a pretty ribbon for a charming touch. They’ll make a thoughtful treat for any occasion.
Don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste! Whether you’re making these cookies for yourself, as a gift, or for a special event, they’re sure to be a hit. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Happy baking! 🍪🌸
Print
Earl Grey Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Earl Grey Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and citrusy flavors, infused with aromatic Earl Grey tea. Perfect for tea parties, homemade gifts, or a cozy snack, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups 190g all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup 100g granulated sugar
- ¼ cup 50g brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 teaspoon citrus zest (lemon or orange)
- Optional: ½ cup (85g white chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing. If desired, fold in citrus zest or white chocolate chips.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough is sticky, refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, place them on the baking sheet, and lightly flatten with a spoon or your hand.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers will still be soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Glaze: For extra flair, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pair with tea, coffee, or milk for a delightful treat!
Notes
For a stronger tea flavor, use high-quality loose-leaf Earl Grey tea and grind it finely.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Customize with add-ins like dark chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Calories: 120 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 30mg
Sugar: 8g
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
Earl Grey Cookies Mouthwatering Flavors You’ll Love

Discover the perfect blend of sweet and citrusy with these easy Earl Grey Cookies! Infused with aromatic tea and simple pantry staples, they're ideal for tea parties, gifts, or a cozy snack. Get the recipe and baking tips now!
Type: Dessert / Snack
Cuisine: International (with a British tea-inspired twist)
Keywords: Earl Grey cookies, tea-infused cookies, citrus cookies, baking, dessert, snack, tea time, homemade gifts, easy baking, aromatic cookies
Recipe Yield: 24 cookies (approximately)
Calories: ~120 calories per cookie (optional, may vary based on ingredients and size)
Preparation Time: PT20M
Cooking Time: PT12M
Total Time: PT32M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 teaspoon citrus zest (lemon or orange)
- Optional: ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips
Recipe Instructions: Prepare the Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing. If desired, fold in citrus zest or white chocolate chips. Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough is sticky, refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, place them on the baking sheet, and lightly flatten with a spoon or your hand. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers will still be soft but will firm up as they cool. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optional Glaze: For extra flair, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice. Serve and Enjoy: Pair with tea, coffee, or milk for a delightful treat!
4.8
Pros
- Unique and aromatic flavor from Earl Grey tea.
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Versatile—perfect for tea parties, gifts, or snacks.
- Customizable with add-ins like chocolate or citrus zest.
- Delicate balance of sweetness and citrusy notes.
Cons
- Requires grinding tea leaves, which may be an extra step.
- Butter must be softened, which requires planning ahead.
- Not suitable for those avoiding caffeine (due to tea content).
- May spread too much if dough is not chilled.