🍪 Earl Grey & Bergamot Winter Cookies
There’s something magical about winter baking—the quiet afternoons, the hum of the oven, and that moment when your kitchen smells like comfort itself. Earl Grey & Bergamot Winter Cookies are exactly that kind of recipe. Gentle, buttery, and lightly citrusy, they feel like a warm hug wrapped in a cozy sweater.
Hi, I’m Luma from recipeshall.com, and these cookies were inspired by slow winter mornings when a cup of tea feels like self-care. If you love elegant flavors without complicated steps, this recipe is for you. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon tea, or those peaceful moments when the house is finally quiet.
✨ Why You’ll Love These Earl Grey & Bergamot Winter Cookies
- Subtle citrus flavor that feels sophisticated but comforting
- Perfect with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Ideal for winter baking and gifting
- Not overly sweet—balanced and cozy
If you enjoy elegant winter treats, you may also love my Mini No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecakes for festive dessert inspiration.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons loose Earl Grey tea (or contents of 3 tea bags)
- Zest of 1 small bergamot (or orange if unavailable)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional:
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
- White chocolate drizzle for gifting
👩🍳 How to Make Earl Grey & Bergamot Winter Cookies
Step 1: Infuse the Butter
Cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the Earl Grey tea and bergamot zest. Mix well—this is where the flavor magic begins.
Step 2: Add Vanilla & Dry Ingredients
Mix in vanilla extract. Slowly add flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix; gentle hands make tender cookies.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes. This helps the flavors deepen and makes shaping easier.
Step 4: Shape & Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into small balls or shape into logs and slice. Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool & Finish
Let cookies cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.
💡 Baking Tips from My Kitchen
- No bergamot? Orange or lemon zest works beautifully.
- Too strong? Use less tea if you prefer a softer flavor.
- Make them fancy: Dip half the cookie in white chocolate for gifting.
- Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Don’t worry if the dough smells very “tea-forward” at first—it mellows beautifully once baked.
❤️ A Little Winter Story
These cookies became a favorite after one snowy afternoon when I wanted something gentle, not overly sweet. I brewed a cup of Earl Grey, baked a small batch, and suddenly the whole day slowed down. My kids said they tasted “like fancy cookies from a café,” which might be the highest compliment a home baker can receive.
Now, they’re part of our winter rhythm—baked on quiet Sundays and packed into little boxes for neighbors.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tea bags instead of loose tea?
Yes! Simply open the tea bags and use the leaves inside.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Freeze for up to 2 months and bake straight from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
Are these cookies very sweet?
No, they’re gently sweet and balanced—perfect with tea.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well.
🌟 Cozy Final Thoughts
Earl Grey & Bergamot Winter Cookies are the kind of treat that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the moment. They’re elegant without being fussy, comforting without being heavy, and perfect for winter days when warmth matters most.
From my kitchen to yours—may these cookies bring calm, comfort, and a little joy to your winter table.
