Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I have a delightful treat in store for you – Tea Icebox Cookies. Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to make, but they also come with a guarantee: no baking mishaps! So, let's embark on this stress-free baking adventure together.
Ingredients:
Gather these simple ingredients for your tea-infused icebox cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons of our favorite tea leaves (green tea, Earl Grey, or herbal tea – your choice!)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
2. Add the Egg:
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Your mixture should look even creamier now.
3. Blend in the Flour and Salt:
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and there are no streaks of flour left.
4. Add the Tea Leaves:
The fun part! Add your chosen tea leaves to the dough. This is where you can get creative. For a classic twist, try Earl Grey. For a hint of earthiness, go with green tea. Or, for a fruity flair, experiment with herbal tea. Mix until the tea leaves are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Form a Cookie Log:
Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and transfer your cookie dough onto it. Shape the dough into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Roll it up in the plastic wrap and twist the ends to seal. This log shape is why they're called icebox cookies – you can slice and bake as needed.
6. Chill the Dough:
Pop your dough log into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. You can even make the dough a day ahead if you like.
7. Preheat and Slice:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and slice it into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the cookie slices on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn a lovely golden brown.
9. Cool and Savor:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The waiting is the hardest part, but the aroma filling your kitchen is your reward.
10. Tea Time!
Brew a pot of your favorite tea, invite some friends or family, and savor your Tea Icebox Cookies together. These cookies are perfect for dipping or simply enjoying on their own.
Final Thoughts:
Tea Icebox Cookies are a delightful treat with a touch of elegance. Plus, the fact that you can make the dough ahead of time and slice and bake whenever you desire makes them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. So, why wait? Brew a cup of tea and start baking – delicious simplicity awaits!