Recipe: Earl Grey Sherlock Shortbread

A new year and a new episode of BBC's Sherlock is here!  Of course, there have been countless adaptations of Arthur Conan Doyle's consulting detective over the years, from radio plays to movies and more.  But the BBC certainly struck gold with this modern (up till now) version starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. 

As the two actors became more and more in demand, I know I wasn't the only Sherlock fan fearful that it would mean the end of their Baker Street days, but I think it speaks volumes to the quality of the show that both of them continue to find the time to make new episodes. 

This recipe is a simple one, and can be made with or without the decorative frosting on top.  If you'd like to create these designs, here's a reminder on how to make your own stencils. 

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies

2 cups flour

3 tablespoons loose earl grey tea leaves

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted buttertter, at room temperature

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon orange zest

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse together the flour, tea leaves and salt until the tea is speckled throughout.  Add butter, sugar, vanilla and orange zest and continue to pulse until a dough forms.

Place the dough on a sheet of plastic wrap and roll into a log.  Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cut the log into 1/3" slices.  Bake for 10-12 minutes, until cookies are set and just starting to brown on the edges.  Cool completely.

To decorate, you can use any chocolate frosting.  Just spread the frosting from the outside of your stencil toward the center so that the lines stay clean.

Happy New Year!