These London Fog Cookies are a delightful treat that you will adore. With their soft and chewy texture and the aromatic flavors of Earl Grey and lavender, they bring a unique twist to your cookie experience. Perfect for afternoon tea, these cookies are great for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. The silky lavender cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that makes them truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- Unique Flavor: Combining Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender offers a sophisticated taste that stands out from traditional cookie recipes.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies at tea time, as dessert after dinner, or even as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
- Perfectly Textured: The cookies have a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality with chewy centers and tender edges.
- Beautiful Presentation: The lavender cream cheese frosting not only tastes amazing but also enhances the visual appeal of these cookies.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your London Fog Cookies, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when mixing butter and sugar to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Baking sheets: Using good-quality baking sheets ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly cooked cookies.
- Parchment paper: This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
These perfectly soft and chewy London fog cookies are incredibly easy to make and have the best pillowy, melt in your mouth texture. They have super chewy, buttery, sweet centers and tender edges, and are bursting with Earl Grey and lavender flavor. A generous spread of silky lavender cream cheese frosting is the finishing touch. They’re the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea!
For the Cookies
- 3 tbsp (12 g) Earl Grey tea
- 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (please see notes)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese
- 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- purple food coloring (optional)
How to Make London Fog Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Infuse the Tea
In a small bowl, combine the Earl Grey tea leaves with 3 tablespoons of hot water. Allow it to steep for about 5 minutes before straining out the leaves.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and culinary lavender until well combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add in the egg, vanilla bean paste, and the prepared Earl Grey infusion. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
Gradually add in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Prepare Frosting
In another mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, culinary lavender, vanilla bean paste, and optional purple food coloring until smooth.
Step 10: Frost Cookies
Once cooled, generously frost each cookie with your lavender cream cheese frosting before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve London Fog Cookies
These delightful London Fog Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. Their unique flavor makes them versatile, pairing well with various beverages and snacks.
With a Cup of Tea
- Earl Grey Tea: Enhance the experience by serving your cookies with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.
- Chamomile Tea: For a calming effect, pair these cookies with chamomile tea. Its floral notes balance the sweetness of the cookies.
At a Gathering
- Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other baked treats for a stunning dessert table.
- Tea Party: Serve them at a tea party or brunch. Their elegant flavor is sure to impress your guests.
As a Gift
- Gift Box: Package them in a decorative box as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Include a note suggesting they enjoy them with their favorite beverage.
- Party Favors: Use these cookies as party favors at birthdays or celebrations. They are delightful and memorable!
How to Perfect London Fog Cookies
To ensure your London Fog Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender for the best flavor and aroma.
- Bold Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly to avoid dense cookies.
- Bold Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix until just combined to maintain that soft, chewy texture.
- Bold Chill Dough if Needed: If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
- Bold Bake Until Edges Set: Remove from the oven when edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue to cook on the tray.

Best Side Dishes for London Fog Cookies
These London Fog Cookies can be perfectly complemented by various side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Board: Offer an assortment of cheeses that pair well with sweet flavors, such as brie or goat cheese.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the cookies.
- Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles provide an indulgent treat that pairs well with the floral notes of the cookies.
- Scones: Serve classic scones alongside for an English-inspired tea-time experience.
- Nut Mix: A lightly salted nut mix can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making London Fog Cookies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes you should watch out for. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect cookies every time.
- Incorrect Measurements: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the mixing process. Ensure your butter is softened and your egg is at room temperature.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when they’re lightly golden around the edges.
- Not Cooling Properly: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet can cause them to become soggy. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing London Fog Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating London Fog Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, place a lid on top, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making London Fog Cookies that might help you along the way.
Can I use regular tea instead of Earl Grey?
Yes, you can substitute Earl Grey with another type of tea, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum for better texture.
What can I use if I don’t have culinary lavender?
You can omit lavender or use dried herbs like chamomile or even lemon zest for a different twist.
How do I know when my London Fog Cookies are done?
Cookies are done when they’re set around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add chocolate chips to my London Fog Cookies?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can enhance the flavor, adding richness while still complementing the Earl Grey taste.
Final Thoughts
These London Fog Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Their unique flavor combination makes them perfect alongside your favorite cup of tea. Feel free to customize with different toppings or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips! Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

London Fog Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the enchanting flavor of London Fog Cookies, a delightful fusion of Earl Grey tea and lavender that will elevate your cookie game. These soft, chewy treats are crowned with a silky lavender cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for afternoon tea or any special occasion. Their unique combination of flavors offers a sophisticated twist on traditional cookies, delighting both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or gifted to friends, these cookies promise to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and stunning presentation.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Earl Grey tea
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for frosting)
- 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender (for frosting)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tbsp culinary lavender (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (for frosting)
- purple food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Steep Earl Grey tea leaves in hot water for about 5 minutes; strain out leaves.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and culinary lavender in a bowl.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla bean paste, and prepared tea infusion until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets two inches apart; bake for about 9 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on racks before frosting with lavender cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For best results, use fresh Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender. Spoon and level flour for accuracy to avoid dense cookies. Chill sticky dough for easier handling before baking if necessary.

