London Fog Cookies

These delightful London Fog Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves the soothing flavors of Earl Grey and lavender. Perfect for tea time, they bring a unique twist to your classic cookie experience. With their soft and chewy texture paired with a creamy lavender frosting, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender creates a unique flavor that’s both aromatic and comforting.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these cookies without hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable Frosting: The cream cheese frosting can be tinted with food coloring to match your theme or celebration.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the contrast between the soft centers and tender edges that melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these London Fog Cookies is simple with the right tools. Gathering everything before you start will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes beating the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking, promoting consistent results across all cookies.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious London Fog Cookies, you’ll need the following 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 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: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a bowl, combine the softened butter with granulated white sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well incorporated.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and Earl Grey tea.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

1. Beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
3. Stir in culinary lavender and vanilla bean paste. If desired, add purple food coloring for an extra touch.

Step 6: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with your prepared lavender cream cheese frosting.

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

How to Serve London Fog Cookies

London fog cookies are a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with various beverages and occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea to complement their flavor.
• Choose herbal teas like chamomile or lavender for a soothing combination.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats for a colorful display.
• Include items like macarons, mini cheesecakes, or fruit tarts for variety.

Gift Packaging

• Package cookies in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful gift.
• Add a personalized note or tag to make it special.

Afternoon Snack

• Serve them as an afternoon snack with milk or plant-based milk alternatives.
• This pairing is perfect for recharging during your busy day.

Brunch Treat

• Include these cookies in your brunch spread to impress guests.
• Serve alongside scones and fresh fruit for a delightful assortment.

How to Perfect London Fog Cookies

To ensure your London fog cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise and texture.
• Measure Flour Properly: Spoon and level the flour to avoid adding too much, which can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough seems too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain the shape.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake until just golden at the edges. Cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different extracts or spices to customize your cookies further.
• Store Correctly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for London Fog Cookies

London fog cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their unique flavors. Consider these options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delicious and refreshing contrast.

3. Cheese Board
   A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with the floral notes of the cookies. Add nuts and dried fruits for variety.

4. Chocolate Ganache Dip
   Rich chocolate ganache offers an indulgent twist when dipped into it while enjoying your cookie.

5. Herbal Infused Water
   Refreshing water infused with mint or cucumber complements the cookie’s flavors without overpowering them.

6. Mini Muffins
   Offer bite-sized muffins, such as blueberry or lemon, to create a varied texture experience alongside the soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making London Fog Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls you should avoid.

• Using stale tea: Ensure your Earl Grey tea is fresh for the best flavor. Stale tea can diminish the cookies’ aromatic qualities.
• Measuring flour incorrectly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies due to excess flour.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Chilling helps maintain their shape.
• Overbaking: Cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to set as they cool.
• Skipping the lavender frosting: While the cookies are delicious on their own, the lavender cream cheese frosting adds a unique touch. Don’t leave it out!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing London Fog Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating London Fog Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds per cookie for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making London Fog Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked queries.

What are London Fog Cookies?

London Fog Cookies are soft and chewy treats infused with Earl Grey tea and lavender flavors, often topped with a creamy lavender frosting.

Can I use other types of tea?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavored teas such as chamomile or vanilla to create your unique twist on London Fog Cookies.

How do I achieve the best texture?

To get that perfect chewy texture, ensure your butter is softened properly and avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients.

Are these cookies suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! London Fog Cookies make an elegant addition to any dessert table or tea party, impressing guests with their unique flavors.

Can I customize the frosting?

Yes! You can adjust the sweetness or add more vanilla for extra flavor. Consider incorporating citrus zest for a refreshing twist!

Final Thoughts

These London Fog Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by tweaking the flavors or adding mix-ins like chocolate chips. Enjoy them as a delightful treat with your favorite cup of tea!