Delicious London Fog Shortbread Cookies Recipe

London Fog shortbread cookies are a sophisticated twist on the classic shortbread, bringing together the citrusy floral notes of Earl Grey tea and the buttery richness of traditional Scottish cookies.

Inspired by the beloved London Fog latte, these cookies infuse real tea leaves and vanilla into a melt-in-your-mouth crumb, offering a treat that’s both comforting and elegant.

Perfect for tea time, gifting, or an afternoon snack, this recipe guides you through every step for cookies that are tender, fragrant, and visually stunning.

This version includes pro techniques, ingredient science, troubleshooting tips, and serving ideas for truly irresistible results.

Ingredients Checklist

A carefully selected ingredient list ensures the best flavor and texture. This shortbread recipe uses pantry staples and specialty items, plus clear options for substitutions and dietary needs. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor, structure, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Essential Ingredients for the Cookies:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, sifted for tenderness

• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch (ensures a delicate, crumbly texture)

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened to cool room temperature

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar or superfine sugar (for a fine crumb)

• 2 tablespoons (5g) loose Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground (from 3–4 tea bags)

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for warmth and complexity)

• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavors)

• 1–2 tablespoons strong brewed Earl Grey tea, cooled (for extra aroma and subtle moisture)

Optional Glaze:

• 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons brewed Earl Grey tea or milk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Checklist:

• Stand mixer or hand mixer (for creaming)

• Mixing bowls

• Fine mesh sieve or sifter (for flour/cornstarch)

• Baking sheet(s)

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

• Rolling pin (optional, for cut-out shapes)

• Cookie cutters or knife (for shapes)

• Microplane or spice grinder (for grinding tea leaves)

• Wire rack (for cooling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Achieving truly perfect London Fog shortbread cookies relies on both method and timing. Here’s a detailed breakdown from ingredient prep to finishing touches.

Start by preparing all ingredients and allowing butter and eggs (if using) to come to room temperature.

• In a small bowl, grind loose Earl Grey tea leaves with a microplane or spice grinder until very fine. If using bagged tea, snip open and grind for better distribution and flavor release.

• In a medium bowl, sift together flour and cornstarch to eliminate lumps and lighten the texture.

• In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together using a stand or hand mixer on medium speed for 3–4 minutes, until very light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Add finely ground tea, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.

• With mixer on low, gradually add the flour-cornstarch mixture. Mix just until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cookies.

• Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of strong brewed tea. If dough seems dry or crumbly, add up to 1 more tablespoon, mixing gently until the dough holds together.

• Turn dough out onto a sheet of parchment or plastic wrap. Shape into a disk, wrap tightly, and chill for at least 45 minutes (or up to overnight). Chilling relaxes gluten and intensifies flavors.

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

• For classic rounds: Roll dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use cookie cutters for rounds or bars, or slice into rectangles for a traditional look.

• For slice-and-bake: Shape dough into a log before chilling, then slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

• Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared sheets. If desired, dock with a fork for a classic shortbread appearance.

• Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until just barely golden at the edges but still pale on top. Do not overbake; shortbread firms up as it cools.

• Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Optional Glaze:

• Whisk together powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon brewed tea or milk, and vanilla. Add more liquid by the teaspoon for desired drizzling consistency.

• Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies or dip halfway for a subtle finish.

Tips for Perfect Results

Mastering London Fog shortbread means paying attention to technique, temperature, and texture. Here are expert tips to guarantee success every time.

• Always use high-quality butter and real Earl Grey tea for superior flavor.

• Grind tea leaves as fine as possible—large pieces can become chewy or bitter.

• Cream butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air for lightness.

• Chill dough well before rolling and again before baking if your kitchen is warm; this prevents spreading.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s essential for a melt-away texture.

• Weigh your ingredients for consistent results, especially flour.

• Bake until just set and edges show faint color; overbaking will make cookies dry.

• For perfectly shaped cookies, re-roll scraps just once—excess rolling can toughen the dough.

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

London Fog shortbread cookies are as versatile in presentation as they are in flavor. Here are inspired ways to serve and pair them:

• Serve alongside a cup of Earl Grey, chai, or breakfast tea for a themed tea-time spread.

• Stack on a tiered stand with fresh berries for an elegant afternoon tea party.

• Plate with lemon curd or berry preserves for a sweet-tart accent.

• For dessert, sandwich two cookies with vanilla bean ice cream or whipped mascarpone for a decadent treat.

• Include in a homemade cookie box as a refined, aromatic addition for gifting.

• Garnish with a dusting of edible dried flowers or a drizzle of dark chocolate for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

London Fog shortbread cookies offer a harmonious blend of classic comfort and modern flavor. The delicate balance of buttery richness, floral-citrus tea, and real vanilla makes these cookies memorable for any occasion.

By following these precise instructions and expert tips, you’ll achieve bakery-quality shortbread that’s tender, aromatic, and visually appealing.

Adapt with glaze, chocolate, or citrus zest to suit your taste, and enjoy the ritual of baking and sharing a truly distinctive cookie. For more shortbread variations or troubleshooting advice, feel free to ask—your perfect batch is only a bake away.