There’s something about a plate of buttery shortbread and a hot cup of tea that feels like slowing down at the farmhouse table. Around the holidays, it becomes even more special. I started experimenting with tea in shortbread a over a decade ago, and now these cookies have become a tradition for our family around Christmas, alternating types in the cookie tray year to year. Whether cut into snow flakes, trees, or simple rounds, they always seem to bring comfort and a little farmhouse charm to the holiday season.

Learn how to make buttery shortbread cookies infused with Earl Grey, Matcha, Lavender, and other tea-inspired flavors. This roundup brings together our favorite shortbread recipes with festive twists, perfect for holiday baking or gift-giving.

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Earl Grey Shortbread with a Floral Twist

The classic choice for pairing with tea. Earl Grey loose leaf tea carries that signature citrusy bergamot flavor, and we love to add lavender for a soft floral touch. Buttery, fragrant, and just perfect for a winter tea party or holiday cookie swap.

Get the Lavender Earl Grey Shortbread Recipe

Matcha Shortbread Cookies That Look Like Christmas Trees

Who says shamrocks are just for spring? These vibrant green matcha shortbreads, originally for St. Patrick's Day, become little Christmas trees or stars with the right cookie cutter. Drizzle with white chocolate for a snowy look, and they’re instantly ready for the cookie tray.

Try the Matcha Shamrock Shortbread Recipe

Sugar-Free Dipped Chocolate Shortbread 

Got friends or family cutting back on sugar? These dipped shortbread cookies keep the buttery flavor and festive look without the sugar crash. Dress them up with dark chocolate or crushed peppermint for holiday cheer.

Make Dipped Shortbread Cookies Without Sugar

How to Invent Your Own Holiday Tea Shortbread

Shortbread is one of those wonderfully simple cookies that lets other flavors shine. Once you’ve got your base dough, the possibilities wide open—especially with teas and cozy winter spices.

Crafting Your Own Holiday Shortbread Flavors

Shortbread is one of the simplest cookies you’ll ever make, which is why it’s the perfect base for experimenting—especially around the holidays. Once you’ve mastered the basic dough, you can bring in teas and flavors that fit the season:

• Cranberry-Orange Tea Shortbread - add dried cranberries + orange zest for a colorful, festive cookie.

• Chai-Spiced Shortbread - warm cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger bring cozy Christmas-market vibes.

• Peppermint Shortbread Trees - dip green tea shortbread in white chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

• Matcha Christmas Trees or Stars - swap the shamrock cutter for holiday shapes, and drizzle with glaze for “snow.”

• Lavender Earl Grey Snowflakes - cut into snowflake shapes and dust with powdered sugar for a frosty finish.

Farmhouse Tip: For the best texture and tea flavor, gently melt and steep half the butter with tea, then chill until soft and cream it with the remaining butter before making your dough.

Questions You Might Be Asking

How do I make these ahead of time for Christmas?

Easy! The dough freezes up to 2 months, and the baked cookies last 1–2 weeks in a tin. Great for planning ahead.

What’s the best way to gift these?

Stack them in a mason jar or tin lined with parchment, tie with a ribbon, and tuck in a sample packet of tea. Sweet and simple!

Can I decorate them?

Absolutely. Try white chocolate drizzle, crushed peppermint, powdered sugar, or dip them in chocolate.

What teas taste best in cookies?

Earl Grey is a winter classic. Matcha brings color and a subtle earthiness. Chai adds spice. Peppermint is always festive.

Wrapping It Up in the Kitchen

Holiday baking doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when shortbread is on the menu. With just a few simple pantry ingredients and your favorite tea, you can create cozy little cookies that feel like a warm hug. They make lovely gifts, look beautiful on your cookie trays, and most of all, they invite us to slow down and savor the season.

If you're new to baking with tea, this Cooking with Tea Ebook is a great place to start. It’s full of creative ways to get more tea into your everyday kitchen adventures—cookies included!

Learn More About Baking with Tea

• Make Your House Smell Like Christmas Simmer Pot Recipe
• Spiced Cranberry Orange Wassail
• No Gelatin Marashmallow Recipe with Marshmallow Root
• Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipes without Dairy
• How to Make Perfect Dried Apples at Home
• How to Make Rice Krispies Squares with Homemade Marshmallows