Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with the warm, aromatic flavors of chai spices. These delicate cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons or sharing with friends and family.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend until they are fully incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring just until combined to form a soft dough.
5. Step 5: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color.
7. Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger chai flavor, add a pinch of extra cinnamon or cardamom to the dough.
• Use brown butter instead of softened butter for a deeper, nutty taste.
• Try sprinkling the tops of the cookies with sugar before baking for a subtle crunch.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier texture.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. When reheating, warm them briefly in a low oven to restore their soft texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the chai spice blend at home?

Yes, you can easily make your own chai spice blend by combining ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Adjust the proportions to taste for a personalized flavor.

Will using cold butter affect the cookie texture?

Using softened butter helps achieve a smooth and fluffy dough that bakes into tender cookies. Cold butter will make the dough harder to mix and can result in a denser texture.

Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 57 reviews

Delight in these buttery Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies featuring a warm chai spice blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Perfectly tender and subtly spiced, these cookies offer a comforting twist on classic shortbread with rich vanilla aroma.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Traditional

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 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)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which creates the perfect texture for your cookies.
3. Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend thoroughly until the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keep your cookies tender.
5. Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them adequately to allow for slight spreading during baking.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked.
7. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly and achieve the best texture.

Notes

• Chai spice blend can be adjusted according to your taste preference or replaced with pre-made chai powder.
• Ensure butter is softened but not melted for the best creaming results.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Optionally, dust cookies with powdered sugar before serving for added sweetness and presentation.

Keywords: Vanilla Chai Cookies, Shortbread Cookies, Spiced Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Tea Cookies, Dessert