Description

Easy Vanilla Chai Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with aromatic chai spices. These tender cookies are simple to make and fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with tea or coffee, they bring comfort and joy to any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

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.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.
Add Flavors: Mix in the vanilla extract and chai spice blend thoroughly to evenly distribute the warm, aromatic spices into the butter and sugar mixture.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can toughen the cookies.
Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving sufficient space between each cookie for spreading.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges, indicating they are perfectly baked but still tender inside.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set and maintain their shape.

Notes

For a stronger chai flavor, increase the chai spice blend to 3 teaspoons.
Ensure butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming.
You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slight variation in flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
These cookies pair wonderfully with hot tea or coffee for a cozy experience.