Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies combine the delicate buttery texture of classic shortbread with warm, aromatic chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Perfectly sweetened with a mix of brown and granulated sugar and infused with vanilla extract, these cookies offer a comforting and flavorful treat ideal for tea time or any cozy moment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp chai spice blend (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves)
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure an even bake.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
- Add Vanilla and Chai Spices: Mix in the vanilla extract along with the chai spice blend. Stir until these flavors are thoroughly incorporated, lending the dough a warm aromatic profile.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which helps keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form balls of dough and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets, allowing room for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. This ensures they are crisp yet buttery.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets initially, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- The chai spice blend can be adjusted to taste; add more cinnamon or cardamom for a stronger flavor.
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the right dough consistency.
- For a softer cookie, bake for the shorter end of the time range; for crisper edges, bake longer.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
