Gluten-Free Earl Grey Shortbread: A Delicate Tea-Time Treat

There’s something timeless about the ritual of tea—especially when paired with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that feels just as calming as your favorite cup. This Gluten-Free Earl Grey Shortbread brings a whisper of British charm to your kitchen with each fragrant, bergamot-kissed bite.

While not traditionally British in origin, this shortbread reminds me of cozy moments spent wandering tearooms and garden cafés across the UK. Whether you’re daydreaming of Bath, missing the misty hills of Wales, or simply craving a peaceful afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are a lovely way to infuse a little quiet joy into your day.

Gluten-Free Earl Grey Shortbread: A Delicate Tea-Time Treat

There’s something timeless about the ritual of tea—especially when paired with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that feels just as calming as your favorite cup. This Gluten-Free Earl Grey Shortbread brings a whisper of British charm to your kitchen with each fragrant, bergamot-kissed bite.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Chill 30 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: British

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 ¾ cups gluten-free flour I use Bob’s Red Mill 1:1
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves from about 5 tea bags
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon water
• 1 cup salted cold butter cut into small pieces

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F
2. In a large bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, both sugars, tea leaves, and salt.
3. Add vanilla, water, and cold butter. Mix by hand or with a stand mixer until the dough comes together—it should be soft and slightly crumbly, but hold when pressed.
4. Divide the dough in half. Roll each half into a log about 12 inches long, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once chilled, slice into ⅓-inch rounds. Place cookies 1–2 inches apart on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

☕️ Serving Suggestions

These shortbread cookies are perfect with a cup of black tea, a cozy book, or as part of a relaxed afternoon tea spread. Their delicate flavor and buttery texture also make them a thoughtful homemade gift: just tie a few in parchment with ribbon for a sweet little surprise.

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my UK series:

• Travel Diaries: Wales, Bath, and London
• Essential Guide to Train Travel in the UK
• How to Experience Ireland Like a Local

If you’re looking for a teatime experience, here are a few to consider:

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