Aromatic Chai Spice Shortbread Cookies for a Unique Flavor

What kind of recipe is it?

Aromatic Chai Spice Shortbread Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional shortbread, infused with the warm, comforting flavors of chai spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.

These cookies are buttery, crumbly, and provide a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making them an ideal treat for tea lovers and anyone seeking a cozy snack.

Perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, this recipe caters to bakers of all skill levels who want to impress with comforting, aromatic treats.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted Butter	1 cup (2 sticks, 226 grams)
Granulated Sugar	1/2 cup (100 grams)
Brown Sugar	1/4 cup (50 grams)
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups (240 grams)
Ground Cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Ground Cardamom	1 teaspoon
Ground Ginger	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon
Chopped Nuts (optional)	1/2 cup (75 grams)

Notes:

Adjust spices according to personal preference for an even stronger chai flavor.
Chopped nuts can add a nice crunch, but are optional. Common choices include pecans or walnuts.

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Confirm the oven rack is positioned in the middle to allow for even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together 226 grams (1 cup) of unsalted butter, 100 grams (1/2 cup) of granulated sugar, and 50 grams (1/4 cup) of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-4 minutes.
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture and blend until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 240 grams (2 cups) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until evenly mixed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Don’t over-mix; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
If using, fold in 75 grams (1/2 cup) of chopped nuts gently using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Line a baking sheet (approximately 30 cm x 40 cm / 12 in x 16 in) with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 5 cm (2 inches) between each scoop.
Flatten each portion slightly with the palm of your hand for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but slightly soft.
The aroma of warm spices should fill the kitchen.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Allow the cookies to cool on the wire rack for at least 10 minutes, confirming the texture becomes firm yet tender.
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, confirming they retain their texture and flavor.

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Variations

Chocolate Chai Shortbread: Add 100 grams (3.5 oz) of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic flavor.
Vegan Chai Cookies: Substitute unsalted butter with 226 grams (1 cup) of coconut oil and use aquafaba (3 tablespoons) in place of the egg for a dairy-free and egg-free option.
Gluten-Free Chai Shortbread: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (240 grams / 2 cups) to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets while maintaining a delicious flavor.
Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Variation: Incorporate 120 grams (1/2 cup) pumpkin puree into the wet ingredients along with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to bring a festive fall flavor to the cookies.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When you’re ready to serve your aromatic chai spice shortbread cookies, think about how presentation can enhance the overall experience.

I love using a rustic wooden platter or a delicate china plate for that touch of elegance. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or star anise for visual appeal.

Don’t forget to include a cup of steaming chai for the perfect pairing!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While a warm cup of chai complements the aromatic chai spice shortbread cookies beautifully, there are plenty of other dishes that can enhance your baking experience.

I love serving them alongside a creamy vanilla ice cream or a light fruit salad. They also pair wonderfully with a cheese platter, where the cookies’ spiciness balances the rich flavors of the cheeses.

Give it a try!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

What drinks can elevate your experience with aromatic chai spice shortbread cookies?

I’ve found that pairing them with a warm, spiced chai tea complements the cookies beautifully.

A creamy latte or a rich hot chocolate also enhances their buttery texture.

For a revitalizing contrast, consider an iced chai or a lightly spiced apple cider.

Each sip adds depth to this delightful treat!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?

Absolutely, you can use gluten-free flour in this recipe. I’ve done it before, and it works well. Just keep an eye on the texture, as it may slightly differ from traditional flour. Enjoy baking!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I love keeping them on hand for a quick treat, but they rarely last that long in my house!

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I often do it myself. Just shape the dough into balls, wrap them tightly, and store in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

What Is the Origin of Chai Spices?

Chai spices originated in India, blending aromatic flavors like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. I love how these spices reflect the rich culture and traditions of tea drinking, enhancing both flavor and experience in every sip.

Are There Any Nut-Free Variations?

Absolutely, I’ve experimented with nut-free variations! You can replace nut-derived ingredients with oat flour or coconut flour for texture. It works beautifully, maintaining a delicious flavor without compromising the cookie’s delightful charm. Enjoy baking!