Name: Cookies with Lavender Frosting for a Delightfully Elegant Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 large egg (can replace with aquafaba for vegan); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for best flavor); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon baking powder (use fresh for best results); 1 cup Earl Grey tea leaves (crushed for the dough); 2 cups powdered sugar (can substitute with erythritol); 2 tablespoons culinary-grade lavender (ensure it's food-grade); 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (can use non-dairy for vegan)

Aromatic whispers of bergamot waft through my kitchen as the comforting smell of these Earl Grey London Fog Cookies fills the air. With a delightful lavender frosting that captures the essence of serene afternoons, this recipe offers a lovely twist on your ordinary cookies. Not only are these cookies with lavender frosting an elegant treat fit for any gathering, but they also come together quickly—perfect for those moments when you crave something special without the fuss. Whether enjoyed alongside your favorite cup of tea or shared as a delightful gift, these cookies blend sophistication with warmth that’s sure to enchant everyone. Are you ready to elevate your baking game and indulge in this cozy confection?

Why are Earl Grey Cookies so special?

Aromatic Delight: The Earl Grey tea infuses these cookies with a unique bergamot flavor, offering a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for cozy afternoons.

Lavender Elegance: Topped with a lavender frosting, these cookies provide a sweet, floral note that elevates them to something truly special.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, these cookies are a time-saver; they come together effortlessly!

Versatile Treat: Perfect for afternoon tea or as a thoughtful gift, they cater to every occasion while appealing to both classic and adventurous palates.

Decadent Aroma: Baking these cookies fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent, making them not just tasty, but an experience. You might also want to try Bacon Mozzarella Poppers as a savory complement to your sweet treats.

Cookies with Lavender Frosting Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Earl Grey Tea – Provides a distinct bergamot flavor essential to these cookies. Opt for high-quality tea for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; replace with aquafaba for a vegan version.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure ingredient; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
• Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; ensure freshness for optimal results.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; use pure vanilla for a more pronounced taste.

For the Lavender Frosting
• Lavender – Imparts a floral note; ensure it’s food-grade and high-quality for the best flavor in your cookies with lavender frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure to the frosting; can be substituted with erythritol for a lower sugar option.
• Heavy Cream/Milk – Adjusts the frosting’s consistency; non-dairy milk works well for a vegan alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cookies with Lavender Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add in 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and the crushed Earl Grey tea leaves. The dough should come together smoothly.

Step 2: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is essential for the cookies with lavender frosting, as it helps the dough firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough is slightly firm to the touch.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready to receive the cookie dough once it’s chilled. This prep will streamline your baking process and help in achieving even, beautifully baked cookies.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Once the dough is firm, scoop tablespoon-sized amounts onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. They will continue baking on the sheet after being removed, so avoid overbaking.

Step 5: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step helps the cookies set and enhances their chewy texture. Once fully cooled, you’re ready to frost and elevate these delightful Earl Grey treats with lavender frosting.

Step 6: Prepare the Lavender Frosting
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of culinary-grade lavender, and 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Mix until smooth, adjusting consistency as needed; it should be thick yet spreadable. This fragrant frosting will beautifully complement the flavors of your cookies.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies
Spread the lavender frosting generously over each cooled cookie using a knife or a piping bag for a decorative touch. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before serving. Your cookies with lavender frosting are now ready to be enjoyed alongside a warm cup of tea, emphasizing their sophisticated flavor profile.

How to Store and Freeze Cookies with Lavender Frosting

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you’ve already frosted the cookies, avoid refrigeration as it can make the lavender frosting soggy. Instead, keep them at room temperature for the best texture.

Freezer: To freeze cookies, wrap unfrosted cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy warm cookies, heat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) just before serving. Frost them after reheating for the best taste and texture.

What to Serve with Earl Grey London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting

Imagine a cozy afternoon, where the air is filled with the enchanting scent of tea-infused cookies and the warmth of companionship.

Earl Grey Tea: The cookie’s own flavor is beautifully complemented by a cup of Earl Grey tea, enhancing that signature bergamot fragrance.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet notes of vanilla ice cream provide a smooth contrast to the delicate cookie and frosting, creating a delightful balance.
Fruit Medley: A fresh fruit salad offers a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite feel light and vibrant.
Hazelnut Coffee: Rich and nutty, a cup of hazelnut coffee adds warmth and depth, making it the perfect pairing for tea-infused treats.
Lemon Bars: The zesty tartness of lemon bars creates a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, ensuring a balanced dessert spread.
Champagne: For a special occasion, sparkling champagne adds an elegant touch and elevates the festive spirit, perfectly complementing each cookie’s sophistication.
Lavender Lemonade: The floral notes tie into the cookies beautifully, creating a refreshing beverage that matches perfectly with your treat.
Shortbread Cookies: Traditional buttery shortbread adds a delightful crunch, serving as a perfect foil to the softness of the Earl Grey cookies with lavender frosting.
Scones with Clotted Cream: A classic tea pairing, scones add richness and can be enjoyed with the same lavender undertone, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

Expert Tips for Cookies with Lavender Frosting

Chill for Success: Refrigerating the dough is crucial to prevent spreading; if you skip this step, your cookies might turn out flat.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality Earl Grey tea and culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor in your cookies with lavender frosting.
Eggs for Structure: Make sure to beat the egg until pale yellow; this ensures your cookies puff up nicely and achieve the perfect texture.
Frost Just Before Serving: To maintain the freshness and integrity of the frosting, only frost the cookies right before serving.
Storage Savvy: Keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, but avoid refrigerating after frosting to prevent sogginess.

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. This helps prevent spreading when baking, ensuring they come out just as delightful as made fresh. Additionally, you can make the lavender frosting up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before frosting your cookies. When ready to enjoy, bake the cookies straight from the fridge and frost just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and beautiful. These prep steps not only save time but ensure your cookies with lavender frosting remain a charming treat!

Cookies with Lavender Frosting Variations

Explore the delightful ways to customize these enchanting cookies! There are endless flavors to play with, inviting you to create a personal touch.

Chai Tea: Substitute Earl Grey with chai tea for a spiced twist that adds warmth and depth to the cookies. The fragrant spices will surely transport you to a cozy café.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the frosting for a bright, refreshing finish. This zesty variation complements the floral notes beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough for a rich and indulgent texture. The chocolate pairs well with the bergamot, adding a delightful contrast to the floral frosting.
Nuts for Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for added texture. The nutty crunch enhances the overall experience, bringing a satisfying bite to every cookie.
Reduced Sugar Option: Use erythritol in both the cookie dough and frosting to make these cookies lower in sugar. It’s a sweet swap that allows everyone to indulge guilt-free.
Coconut Flavors: Add shredded coconut to the cookie base for a chewy texture and tropical twist. Pair it with lime zest in the frosting for an aromatic, summery delight.
Savory Touch: Try adding a pinch of sea salt to the frosting to create a sweet-and-salty contrast. This elevates the flavor profile beautifully, enhancing the lavender sweetness.
Matcha Infusion: Replace Earl Grey with matcha powder for a vibrant green hue and an earthy flavor. Matcha adds a unique twist that complements the lavender, making it a visually stunning treat.

Each variation gives you plenty of room to play around! As you explore these options, consider serving them alongside a warm cup of tea or trying out something savory like Bacon Mozzarella Poppers for a fun balance. Happy baking!

Earl Grey London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe FAQs

What kind of Earl Grey tea should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your cookies with lavender frosting, opt for high-quality, whole-leaf Earl Grey tea. This will enhance the distinct bergamot flavor, making each bite more aromatic and delightful. Avoid using tea bags if you can; loose leaf tea will provide a richer infusion.

How should I store these cookies?
You can store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Ensure they are away from direct sunlight and humidity to keep them fresh. Remember, if you frost them, store them at room temperature as refrigerating can make the lavender frosting soggy.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies with lavender frosting, start by wrapping the unfrosted cookies tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and frost just before serving for optimal taste.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it’s likely the dough was not chilled long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes; for a firmer dough, 1 hour is even better. If you find your cookies still spreading, try adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the dough to help maintain structure.

Is there a way to make these cookies vegan?
Yes, definitely! To create a vegan version of these cookies, substitute the egg with 3 tablespoons of aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), and use non-dairy butter along with almond or oat milk in your frosting. It will still yield a delightful result without sacrificing flavor!