London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe

If you adore the elegant flavors of Earl Grey tea and the delicate floral charm of lavender, you are going to fall head over heels for this London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe. These cookies capture the essence of the beloved London Fog latte in a tender, buttery cookie form, crowned with a creamy, fragrant lavender frosting that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Each bite is a perfect harmony of citrusy bergamot, subtle tea notes, and soft floral sweetness, making these cookies a standout treat for teatime or any special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create that signature flavor and texture. From the finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves to the culinary lavender, every component plays an important role in achieving the perfect bite.

• 3 tbsp (12 g) Earl Grey tea: Ground finely for an even, aromatic tea flavor throughout the cookie dough.
• 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness of the cookies; spooned and leveled for accuracy.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a gentle lift to keep the cookies from being too dense.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps with leavening and contributes to a tender crumb.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the tea and lavender flavors.
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar: Sweetens the dough while helping with a slight crisp edge.
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened: The key to rich, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
• 1 egg, at room temperature: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste: Deepens the flavor and adds subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar: For the lavender sugar coating — adding a lovely floral crunch.
• 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender: Mixed into sugar for a fragrant, delicate coating that enhances the frosting flavor later.
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese: Creates a luscious, smooth base for the frosting with a slight tang.
• 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting creamy and spreadable.
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for the perfect consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste: Adds a fragrant note that complements both the cookie and frosting flavors.
• Purple food coloring (optional): For that beautiful lavender hue to elevate the cookie’s presentation.

How to Make London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Earl Grey Tea

Start by grinding 3 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea leaves in a spice grinder or food processor until they are finely ground. This step is crucial because it ensures the tea flavor will be evenly distributed in the cookie dough, giving you that unmistakable bergamot aroma in every bite.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the ground Earl Grey tea until uniformly mixed. These ingredients create the foundational structure and balance for your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter together with the granulated white sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This process incorporates air, resulting in soft yet slightly crisp cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the room-temperature egg and vanilla bean paste until your batter is smooth and fully combined. This enriches the dough and adds depth to the flavor profile that complements the tea.

Step 5: Integrate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just on low speed until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cookies tough instead of tender and crumbly.

Step 6: Make Lavender Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and culinary lavender to create a fragrant coating that you’ll later roll your cookie dough balls in. This little touch adds a delicate floral crunch that beautifully echoes the frosting.

Step 7: Shape and Coat Cookies

Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, then roll them evenly in the lavender sugar mixture. Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping about 2 inches of space between each cookie so they can spread and bake perfectly.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, watching for the edges to set and start to turn a subtle golden shade. Remove the pan from the oven and let the cookies cool completely right on the baking sheet to retain their shape before frosting.

Step 9: Prepare Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and optional purple food coloring, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. This frosting is the crowning glory that adds a luscious, tangy sweetness to your London Fog Cookies.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the lavender cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Allow the frosting to set slightly; this makes them easier to handle and ready for sharing or storing.

How to Serve London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant finish, consider sprinkling edible dried lavender buds or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the frosted cookies. This not only makes them visually stunning but also enhances the lavender aroma, inviting your guests to savor every bite.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea or a London Fog latte. Their delicate sweetness balances perfectly with the creamy tea beverages, making them a perfect companion for a cozy afternoon or a sophisticated tea party.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe on a floral china plate or a rustic wooden board for a charming display. You can also layer them in pastel-colored tins tied with a lavender ribbon as lovely edible gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your frosted London Fog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator to preserve the cream cheese frosting’s texture, but allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely before applying the lavender frosting to prevent moisture issues.

Reheating

If desired, warm your cookies gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to bring back that just-baked softness, but be sure to frost only after reheating if freezing was involved. This reheating step revives their tender texture and enhances the aromatic tea notes.

FAQs

Can I use regular black tea instead of Earl Grey for this cookie recipe?

While you can substitute regular black tea, the distinctive bergamot flavor of Earl Grey is what truly defines these London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe. Using regular black tea will yield a different taste, so for the authentic flavor, stick with Earl Grey if possible.

Is culinary lavender necessary, or can I use regular lavender from the garden?

It is best to use culinary lavender labeled for cooking, as it has the right flavor and is free from pesticides or chemicals. Regular lavender from garden centers might not be safe for consumption and can be more bitter than the culinary variety.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too runny?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted. Gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable consistency. If the frosting is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes; if too stiff, mix in a tiny bit of milk.

Can I make the frosting without food coloring?

Absolutely! The purple food coloring is purely optional and only adds a lovely lavender hue. The frosting will still be delicious and fragrant without it, retaining all the wonderful flavors.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes! London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe make a charming and elegant gift. Just be sure to package them in an airtight container and consider adding a protective layer of parchment paper between cookie layers to keep the frosting intact during transport.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking to impress yourself or your guests with a cookie that’s both unique and irresistibly delicious, the London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe is your perfect new go-to. It’s a beautiful fusion of tea and floral flavors wrapped up in a tender cookie with a creamy finish. Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll quickly become a treasured favorite you reach for again and again.

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