London Fog Cookies

These London Fog Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of Earl Grey tea and lavender into a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon tea party or a cozy night in, these cookies offer a unique twist on traditional cookie recipes. The addition of silky lavender cream cheese frosting elevates them to a truly gourmet experience that pairs beautifully with your favorite hot beverage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender creates an aromatic and flavorful cookie that stands out from typical desserts.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies boast a pillowy texture that melts in your mouth, making them incredibly satisfying with every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions including tea parties, holidays, or simply as an indulgent snack at home.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever you crave something sweet.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, even for beginner bakers. Enjoy the process without any complicated steps!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious London Fog Cookies, having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without any mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a creamy texture in the butter and sugar mixture quickly and efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 3 tbsp (12 g) Earl Grey tea
• 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

For the Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese
• 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• purple food coloring (optional)

How to Make London Fog Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Infuse the Butter with Earl Grey

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the Earl Grey tea leaves and let steep for about 5 minutes. Strain out the leaves and let the butter cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, combine the softened butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and allow cooling on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by culinary lavender and vanilla bean paste. Mix well until creamy.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely, generously spread or pipe lavender cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Optionally add purple food coloring for visual appeal.

Enjoy your homemade London Fog Cookies with a warm cup of tea!

How to Serve London Fog Cookies

Serving London Fog Cookies can transform any gathering into a delightful experience. These cookies pair wonderfully with various beverages and can be presented in numerous ways to impress your guests.

With a Cup of Tea

• Classic Earl Grey – The traditional pairing complements the tea-infused flavor of the cookies.
• Chamomile Tea – A soothing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Chai Latte – The spice elements enhance the lavender notes in the cookies for an aromatic experience.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Selection – Soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone can contrast nicely with the cookie’s flavors.
• Fruit Medley – Fresh fruits such as berries or citrus add a refreshing touch to your dessert display.

At Parties and Gatherings

• Cookie Sandwiches – Spread a layer of lavender cream cheese frosting between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
• Gift Boxes – Package cookies in decorative boxes tied with ribbon for charming party favors.

How to Perfect London Fog Cookies

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your London Fog Cookies, follow these simple tips.

• Boldly choose quality ingredients – Use high-quality Earl Grey tea and fresh culinary lavender for the best flavor.
• Boldly measure flour accurately – Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can alter texture.
• Boldly chill your dough – Letting the dough rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps improve texture and flavor.
• Boldly experiment with baking times – Each oven is different; check cookies at 8 minutes for optimal softness without underbaking.
• Boldly store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture.

Best Side Dishes for London Fog Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your London Fog Cookies can enhance their unique flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fresh Fruits – Seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches can refresh your palate after each cookie bite.
3. Herbal Teas – Offer a selection of herbal teas that might complement the lavender notes in your cookies.
4. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent twist.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a light, creamy side that balances sweetness.
6. Nut Mixes – A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and savory notes, making them perfect companions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your London Fog Cookies turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold measurement inaccuracies: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, particularly for flour, to prevent dry or overly dense cookies.
• Bold ignoring room temperature: Make sure the butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing for that soft texture.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you want.
• Bold skipping chilling time: Don’t skip chilling the cookie dough if specified. Chilling helps the flavors meld and can improve texture.
• Bold neglecting baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they’re lightly golden at the edges for optimal softness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing London Fog Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating London Fog Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, placing the cookie in briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making London Fog Cookies.

What flavor do London Fog Cookies have?

London Fog Cookies have delightful flavors of Earl Grey tea and lavender, creating a fragrant and comforting treat.

Can I customize my London Fog Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts to enhance texture and flavor while still keeping the signature taste intact.

How should I store leftover London Fog Cookies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What is a good pairing for London Fog Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or your favorite herbal blend, enhancing their unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

These London Fog Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also versatile enough for any occasion. With their unique Earl Grey and lavender flavor, they make a delightful treat alongside your favorite beverage. Feel free to customize these cookies with additional mix-ins for even more fun!