Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze

Indulging in the delicate flavors of Earl Grey tea and the vibrant zest of blood orange is an experience that transcends the ordinary. Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze is a delightful treat that combines buttery, crumbly shortbread infused with aromatic tea, perfectly balanced by a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe brings sophistication to your dessert table, making it an ideal companion for afternoon tea or a sweet bite after dinner. Let’s dive into the world of flavor and create a batch of these delightful cookies!

Why It’s My Go-To

Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze is my go-to cookie recipe because it perfectly marries classic flavors with a modern twist. The subtle bergamot notes from the Earl Grey tea complement the rich, buttery base, while the blood orange glaze adds a pop of color and a refreshing citrus kick. It’s easy to whip up, and the ingredients are simple yet elegant. Plus, they look beautiful on a platter, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration.

What to Buy

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what to gather:

• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), room temperature for that rich, creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup to sweeten the dough without overpowering the tea flavor.
• Large Egg: 1 to bind the ingredients together.
• Pure Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste: 1/2 teaspoon for a warm, aromatic note.
• Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance the flavor of the cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups (6.75 oz) for the cookie base.
• Earl Grey Tea: 1 teaspoon finely ground from 1 tea bag for that signature flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: 1/4 cup, sifted for a smooth glaze.
• Blood Orange Juice: 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed for the glaze, adding a lovely tang.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s a list of essential gear:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients easily.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar together smoothly.
• Baking Sheet: To bake your shortbread cookies to perfection.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Sifter: To ensure your powdered sugar is lump-free for the glaze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking!
• Cooling Rack: To let your cookies cool completely before glazing.

Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these Earl Grey Shortbread cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for success:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and let the butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft. This makes it easier to cream with the sugar.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in 1 large egg and add 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of finely ground Earl Grey tea, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While your dough chills, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8: Slice and Bake

Once the dough is firm, slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Blood Orange Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of sifted powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed blood orange juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more sugar or juice.

Step 11: Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the blood orange glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Looking to switch things up a bit? Here are some festive variations on Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze:

• Add zest from a blood orange to the dough for extra citrus flavor.
• Incorporate chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate chips into the dough.
• Substitute lavender for Earl Grey tea for a floral twist.
• Use lemon juice in place of blood orange for a different citrus profile.

Mistakes That Ruin Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze

Even the best bakers can encounter hiccups. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze:

• Using cold butter instead of room temperature can lead to dense cookies.
• Overmixing the dough will create tough shortbread instead of delicate cookies.
• Not chilling the dough long enough can result in cookies spreading too much while baking.
• Skipping the sifting of powdered sugar for the glaze can lead to a lumpy finish.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store them:

You can freeze the unbaked dough. Simply shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and slice the cookies while still slightly frozen, then bake as directed. Baked cookies can also be frozen; just ensure they are completely cooled and stored in an airtight container.

Popular Questions

Can I use other types of tea for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Earl Grey gives a unique flavor, you can experiment with other types of flavored teas, such as chai or matcha, for a different twist.

How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating or freezing them.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the blood orange glaze ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and whisk it again before using.

What can I serve these cookies with?

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or any other herbal tea. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or cheese.

Keep Cooking

If you loved making Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze, you might enjoy trying your hand at these other delightful recipes:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for classic chocolate chip cookies.
• Pinch of Yum for seasonal fruit tarts.
• Minimalist Baker for easy vegan desserts.

Next Steps

Now that you’re equipped with the recipe for Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the aromatic journey of flavors that this delightful treat offers. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; they’ll be impressed by your baking prowess and the beautiful presentation of these cookies. Happy baking!