Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies bring together the comforting flavors of chai spices with rich vanilla and buttery shortbread. Perfect for tea time or sharing with friends, they are simple to make and delightfully fragrant.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp chai spice blend (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves)
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 3: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend until well combined.
- Step 4: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Step 5: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger chai flavor, increase the chai spice blend by ½ teaspoon.
- Substitute half the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier texture.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.
- Try dipping the cooled cookies in melted white or dark chocolate for an extra treat.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, freeze in a sealed container for up to three months. Reheat briefly in a low oven or microwave to regain some crispness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought chai spice blend?
Yes, a good-quality store-bought chai spice blend works well. If you don’t have one, you can make your own by mixing cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves in equal parts.
How do I make the cookies crispier?
For crispier cookies, bake them a minute or two longer, keeping a close eye to prevent over-browning. Also, letting the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet helps them firm up nicely.
PrintEasy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies are a perfect blend of buttery richness and warm chai spices, infused with aromatic vanilla for a comforting treat. Crisp on the edges and tender in the center, these cookies make an ideal snack alongside your favorite tea or coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and do not stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, creating a light base for the cookies.
- Add Flavors: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend thoroughly to distribute the warm, aromatic flavors evenly throughout the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and ensure a tender texture.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow for even spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden color, signaling perfect doneness.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a stronger chai flavor, add a pinch more of the chai spice blend according to taste.
- Ensure the butter is fully softened for easier creaming and better texture.
- Storing cookies in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to one week.
- These cookies can be made ahead and frozen before baking; just bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Keywords: Vanilla chai cookies, shortbread cookies, chai spice cookies, easy cookie recipe, buttery cookies
