Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze

Earl Grey Shortbread with Blood Orange Glaze

Indulge in the delicate flavors of Earl Grey tea paired with the vibrant tang of blood orange in this delightful shortbread recipe. Perfect for tea time or as a sophisticated treat, these cookies offer a unique twist on a classic shortbread, making them a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups (6.75 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon finely ground Earl Grey tea (from 1 tea bag)

For Glaze:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed blood orange juice

Directions:

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on at least two edges for easy removal.
2. Making the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This forms the base of your cookie dough.
   • Add the egg and vanilla, followed by the salt, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth consistency.
   • Gradually incorporate the flour and ground Earl Grey tea into the mixture on low speed until just combined to preserve the delicate texture of the cookies.
3. Baking:
   • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. To avoid the dough sticking to your hands, use floured fingertips or a piece of plastic wrap.
   • Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until the surface looks matte and the edges start to turn golden brown. This ensures a perfectly baked shortbread with a slight crisp on the edges.
4. Glazing and Serving:
   • Cool the shortbread in the pan on a wire rack to room temperature to prevent it from breaking when cut.
   • For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and blood orange juice until it reaches a honey-like consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding more juice or sugar as needed.
   • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled shortbread. Allow the glaze to set slightly before cutting the shortbread into triangle pieces for a stylish presentation.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 280 per serving
• Servings: 16 cookies

Total Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

These Earl Grey Shortbread cookies with Blood Orange Glaze are not just a treat to eat but also a delight to prepare. The subtle infusion of tea and the bright zest of orange make these cookies a perfect pairing for your favorite cup of tea or a special gift for friends and family. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite!