Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies combine classic buttery shortbread with warm chai spices for a comforting treat. Perfect with tea or as a sweet snack any time of day, they are simple to make and irresistibly 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 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 prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Allow 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 to 3 teaspoons or add a pinch of ground black pepper for a subtle kick.
- Use orange zest in place of vanilla for a citrusy twist that complements the spices.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping to help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months. Reheat gently in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their buttery softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch or omit it completely to avoid oversalting your cookies.
What can I substitute for the chai spice blend?
If you don’t have chai spice, you can use an equal mix of cinnamon, ginger, and a small amount of cloves or cardamom individually to mimic the flavor.
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Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies, blending buttery richness with warm chai spices and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly crumbly and infused with aromatic cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, these cookies offer a comforting treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, which typically takes a few minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Flavors: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend thoroughly to evenly distribute the warm and aromatic flavors throughout the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the dough just comes together without over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between each to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps retain their shape and texture.
Notes
- You can adjust the chai spice blend to suit your taste by varying the proportions of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugars.
- Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent cookies from sticking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle additional chai spice or sugar on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: vanilla chai cookies, shortbread, chai spice cookies, easy shortbread, baking recipe, vanilla cookies, chai spice blend
