Imagine a cookie that melts in your mouth, releasing a delicate fragrance of bergamot with every bite. These shortbread cookies offer a tender, crumbly texture that is both satisfying and refined. The subtle sweetness is perfectly balanced by the distinctive floral notes of Earl Grey tea, creating a truly delightful treat.

The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a cozy afternoon tea setting. These cookies are surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The key to their exquisite texture lies in using softened butter, which ensures a light and airy crumb.

For an even more pronounced depth of flavor, consider using cultured butter; its tangy notes complement the tea beautifully. The quality of the Earl Grey tea you use will directly impact the final flavor of the cookies, so opt for a high-quality variety with a strong, aromatic profile. The tea leaves are finely ground and incorporated into the dough, infusing every morsel with their characteristic essence.

While Earl Grey is the star of the show, feel free to explore other complementary flavors. Lavender lends a soothing, floral note, matcha adds an earthy depth, and hibiscus provides a vibrant, tart twist. To achieve perfectly uniform cookies, it's recommended to chill the dough before baking.

This allows the butter to firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too thin in the oven. For ultimate convenience, the dough can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to a month. Simply shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer.

When ready to bake, let the dough thaw slightly for a few minutes, slice it into rounds, and bake until golden brown around the edges. Once baked, these cookies will stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container for a few days, making them perfect for enjoying at your leisure or sharing with friends and family.