Name: Irresistibly Soft London Fog Cookies You'll Love to Make
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 bags Earl Grey Tea (or 3 tablespoons loose leaf); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (measured properly); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Granulated White Sugar; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 piece Egg (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste (or vanilla extract); 1 tablespoon Culinary Lavender (dried); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; a few drops Purple Food Coloring (optional)

“Imagine walking through a quaint London café, the aroma of Earl Grey and hints of lavender whisking you away to a cozy afternoon. These Perfectly Chewy London Fog Cookies capture that essence beautifully with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful flavors. With an easy recipe that even busy home chefs can master, these cookies are a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a quiet evening at home. Plus, I’ve included a gluten-free option, so everyone can indulge in this sweet treat. Curious how to turn your kitchen into a little slice of London magic? Let’s dive into this recipe!”

Why Are London Fog Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of Earl Grey and floral lavender creates a heavenly taste that transports you straight to a cozy café.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Soft and chewy, these cookies boast a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea.

Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can confidently whip up these treats.

Gluten-Free Friendly: Don’t worry about dietary restrictions! You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free bakers without losing any flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a party or a quiet afternoon, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy everyone craving something sweet. Consider pairing them with a delightful cup of freshly brewed Earl Grey tea for a complete experience!

For more unique cookie recipes, check out these Meringue Pie Cookies or these delightful Chocolate Dipped Cookies.

London Fog Cookies Ingredients

• Create these delightful treats with the following essential ingredients for the perfect blend of Earl Grey and lavender flavors.

For the Cookies

Earl Grey Tea – Use loose leaf or tea bags; 3 bags = approximately 3 tablespoons of loose leaf for a robust flavor experience.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; measure properly to avoid dense cookies—use a spoon and level method or weigh (1 cup ≈ 125 grams).
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure your cookies rise beautifully.
Baking Soda – Another leavening agent that helps cookies spread and brown.
Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing overall flavor.
Granulated White Sugar – This sweetens and adds texture; creaming it with butter contributes to that soft, chewy texture.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s really soft for easy creaming with sugar.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; make sure it’s at room temperature for optimal blending.
Vanilla Bean Paste – Enhances the cookie’s flavor; its strong vanilla notes are highly recommended, but vanilla extract works too.
Culinary Lavender – Provides that signature floral flavor; opt for dried culinary lavender for the best taste—avoid extracts if you want authenticity.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting; must be softened for a smooth blend.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetness for frosting and helps achieve that spreadable consistency.
Purple Food Coloring – Optional; adds visual appeal to your frosting if you want a pop of color.

These London Fog Cookies are sure to impress with their unique flavors and delightful texture!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Lavender Sugar
Start by pulsing dried culinary lavender in a food processor until it becomes fine. Combine this lavender-infused sugar with granulated sugar in a bowl, ensuring it’s evenly mixed. Set aside a tablespoon of lavender sugar for later use in frosting. This step infuses the cookies with that signature London Fog flavor!

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will ensure your London Fog Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. As the oven warms up, you can move on to mixing the dry ingredients to keep the process flowing smoothly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the ground Earl Grey tea. The mixture should become a uniform color, signaling that the leavening agents are well-integrated. Once mixed, this dry blend will help create the perfect texture for your cookies.

Step 4: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a separate bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated lavender sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. The color should change to a pale yellow, which indicates that air has been incorporated, contributing to the chewiness of your London Fog Cookies.

Step 5: Add Egg & Vanilla
Beat in an egg and add vanilla bean paste to the creamed mixture. Mix until the batter is pale and fluffy, about one more minute. Ensure these wet ingredients are fully combined; this step is key in binding everything together for that luscious texture you desire in your London Fog Cookies.

Step 6: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporates—avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies tender. The dough should be soft but not too sticky, forming a lovely cohesive blend that’s ready to scoop.

Step 7: Form Cookies
Scoop dough into balls, about 2 tablespoons each, and roll them into the reserved lavender sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly for even baking. This creates the perfect surface for the delicious frosting later!

Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9 to 10 minutes. They’re ready when the edges turn golden brown, while the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by blending softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, a little more lavender, and vanilla bean paste, mixing until creamy and smooth. This light and delightful frosting will perfectly complement your London Fog Cookies.

Step 10: Frost Cookies
Once cooled, take each cookie and generously top it with the lavender cream cheese frosting. Use a knife or spatula to spread or swirl the frosting for a beautiful finish. Feel free to sprinkle a few lavender buds on top for a lovely presentation that captures the essence of these delightful cookies!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to make London Fog Cookies ahead of time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into balls, roll them in lavender sugar, and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method keeps the dough fresh and flavorful while saving you time on baking day. On the day you want to serve them, bake the cookies directly from the fridge (they may need an extra minute or two in the oven). For an even easier option, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, ensuring they remain just as delicious! Just frost them right before serving for an added touch of freshness.

Expert Tips for London Fog Cookies

Butter Is Key: Ensure your unsalted butter is extremely soft. This allows for easy mixing, leading to that perfectly chewy texture we all love.
Flour Measurement: Properly measure your all-purpose flour to prevent dense cookies. Weighing your flour can help achieve the best results for your London Fog Cookies.
Cooling Time: Always allow your cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting into the cookies and helps it maintain a beautiful appearance.
Gluten-Free Option: When making a gluten-free version, opt for Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 flour. This ensures you don’t sacrifice flavor or texture in your delicious cookies.
Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to swap out the Earl Grey for another flavored tea or add spices like cinnamon. This adds a personal touch to your London Fog Cookies!
Frosting Consistency: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before blending into frosting. This gives a smooth and creamy finish that perfectly complements the cookies.

London Fog Cookies Customizations

Feel free to let your creativity bloom and make these delicious cookies your own with some fun variations.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 flour for a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free butter to create a lovely alternative for those with dairy sensitivities. You won’t lose any of the luscious flavors!
Flavor Swap: Experiment by swapping Earl Grey for a chai or lemon ginger tea; both add an exciting twist to the classic flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch that complements the floral notes perfectly.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate atop the frosted cookies for added richness.
Omit Lavender: If lavender isn’t your thing, simply reduce or omit it; the Earl Grey flavor still shines through beautifully.
Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cookie texture.
Frosting Variations: Try using a lemon cream cheese frosting instead for a fresh, zesty topping that brightens the overall flavor experience.

These London Fog Cookies are such a versatile treat; they can adapt beautifully to suit everyone’s taste. For more exciting cookies, check out these delectable Chocolate Dipped Cookies that take dessert to the next level!

What to Serve with Perfectly Chewy London Fog Cookies?

Picture the aroma of freshly baked cookies, delicately flavored with Earl Grey and lavender, enticing everyone to gather around the table.

Freshly Brewed Earl Grey Tea: A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s flavor with its fragrant notes, creating a comforting afternoon ritual.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This unexpected side provides a rich contrast, balancing the sweetness with creamy, buttery goodness.
Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing beverage with floral undertones that complements the cookie’s unique flavor profile, offering a delightful twist.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture paired with warm cookies creates a heavenly experience; perfect for those indulgent moments.
Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and acidity, counteracting the sweet cookies with a burst of juicy flavor.
Chocolate Dipped Biscotti: For another layer of richness, these crunchy treats offer a delightful contrast and a crunchy texture.
Buttercream Frosted Cupcakes: Elevate dessert time by serving these perfect little cakes, ensuring a sweet, festive touch with a similar flavor vibe.
Spiced Chai Latte: This warming drink beautifully complements the iconic flavors of Earl Grey, inviting cozy vibes for those chilly evenings.
Almond Croissants: Similar floral notes and a buttery flaky texture create an impressive contrast that will impress your guests!
Dark Chocolate Truffles: Rich, decadent bites that enhance the sophisticated flavor spectrum of your London Fog Cookies, making for a truly indulgent pairing.

How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your London Fog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy while preventing moisture loss.

Refrigeration: If you’d like to extend their freshness, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze your cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Frosting Storage: If you’re frosting the cookies, consider freezing them without frosting to maintain the best texture. Frost before serving for a fresh, creamy finish!

London Fog Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! You can use either loose leaf Earl Grey tea or tea bags. If using tea bags, 3 bags equal approximately 3 tablespoons of loose leaf. For a stronger flavor infusion, I recommend using loose leaf tea, as it can provide a richer taste in your cookies.

How should I store leftover London Fog Cookies?
Store your London Fog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, but if you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying to bring them back to their delightful texture!

Can I freeze London Fog Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your London Fog Cookies! To do this, place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving; this preserves their soft, chewy texture.

What if my cookies turn out too dense?
If you find your cookies are dense, it may be because of overmixing the dough or inaccurate flour measurement. To prevent this, ensure you weigh your flour or use the spoon and level method to measure it correctly. Also, mix until just combined; this helps maintain that light and airy texture that’s characteristic of these delicious London Fog Cookies.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Very much so! To make gluten-free London Fog Cookies, I recommend using Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 flour, which works beautifully without sacrificing flavor or texture. Follow the recipe as outlined, and you’ll still achieve that wonderfully chewy and flavorful cookie that everyone will love!

Can I add other flavors or substitutes to the recipe?
Of course! Feel free to get creative by substituting Earl Grey tea with another flavored tea or omitting lavender if you’d like a mellow flavor. You can also experiment with adding warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add an extra layer of warmth and comfort to your cookies. Enjoy crafting your unique version!