Masala Chai Shortbread: A Deliciously Spiced Cookie Recipe

Salmon Jerky: the savory, smoky snack you won’t be able to put down! Imagine tender strips of rich salmon, infused with a blend of sweet and savory spices, slowly dried to perfection. It’s a far cry from the overly processed snacks lining supermarket shelves, and trust me, once you try homemade, you’ll never go back.

While the modern version of Salmon Jerky is a relatively recent culinary innovation, the concept of preserving fish through drying has ancient roots. Indigenous communities along the Pacific Northwest coast have been drying salmon for centuries, a vital practice for ensuring sustenance throughout the long winter months. This traditional method, passed down through generations, provided a crucial source of protein and essential nutrients.

But what makes this particular snack so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The natural richness of the salmon is enhanced by a carefully balanced marinade, creating a symphony of sweet, salty, and smoky notes. The drying process concentrates these flavors, resulting in an intensely satisfying bite. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Pack it for hiking, road trips, or simply enjoy it as a healthy and delicious afternoon snack. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the joys of homemade salmon jerky!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Shortbread:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• For the Masala Chai Spice Blend:
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of black pepper
• For the Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (or strong brewed chai tea for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of Masala Chai Spice Blend (from above)

Preparing the Masala Chai Spice Blend:

Okay, let’s start with the heart of our shortbread – the masala chai spice blend! This is where all the magic happens, and it’s super easy to whip up. I like to make a little extra so I can sprinkle it on my lattes or even oatmeal. Trust me, you’ll find uses for it!

1. Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. I like to use a fork to break up any clumps.
2. Taste and Adjust (Optional): This is totally optional, but I always recommend tasting your spice blend. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a bit more. If you’re not a fan of cloves, reduce the amount slightly. This is your chance to customize it to your liking!
3. Set Aside: Once you’re happy with your spice blend, set it aside. We’ll be using it in both the shortbread dough and the glaze (if you’re making it).

Making the Shortbread Dough:

Now for the fun part – making the shortbread dough! This is a pretty straightforward process, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a tender and crumbly shortbread. Don’t overmix the dough, and make sure your butter is properly softened.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be pale and airy.
2. Add the Salt and Masala Chai Spice Blend: Add the salt and 2 tablespoons of the masala chai spice blend to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix at this stage. We want to keep the dough tender.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps to create a more tender crumb.
4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough shortbread. The dough should come together into a shaggy mass.
5. Form the Dough into a Disc: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together into a smooth disc. Wrap the disc tightly in plastic wrap.
6. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This will help to prevent the shortbread from spreading too much in the oven. Chilling also makes the dough easier to handle.

Baking the Shortbread:

Alright, the dough is chilled, and we’re ready to bake! This is where the magic really happens. The aroma of the masala chai spice filling your kitchen is simply divine. Make sure your oven is properly preheated for the best results.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the shortbread from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. If the dough is too cold and hard to roll, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
3. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. You can use any shape you like! I personally love using round cutters for a classic look, but feel free to get creative.
4. Place on Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer the cut-out shapes to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
5. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your cookies, so keep a close eye on them.
6. Cool: Let the shortbread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Masala Chai Glaze (Optional):

Okay, so this glaze is totally optional, but I highly recommend it! It adds a touch of sweetness and extra masala chai flavor that really takes these shortbread cookies to the next level. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or strong brewed chai tea), vanilla extract, and a pinch of the masala chai spice blend. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
2. Adjust Consistency: The glaze should be smooth and pourable, but not too thin. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
3. Glaze the Shortbread: Once the shortbread cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over them using a spoon or a fork. You can also dip the cookies into the glaze if you prefer.
4. Let the Glaze Set: Let the glaze set completely before serving or storing the shortbread. This usually takes about 30 minutes.

Serving and Storing:

And there you have it – delicious Masala Chai Shortbread! These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a sweet treat any time of day. They also make a wonderful gift!

• Serving: Serve the shortbread cookies at room temperature. They’re delicious on their own, or you can pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Storing: Store the shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve glazed the cookies, they may become slightly softer over time. You can also freeze the unglazed shortbread cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before serving.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Masala Chai Shortbread recipe is more than just a cookie; it’s an experience. It’s the comforting warmth of chai in a buttery, crumbly bite. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spice, a delightful treat that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves chai, shortbread, or simply delicious baked goods.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and delivers a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly unique. The aromatic spices of the chai blend infuse the classic shortbread with a depth and complexity that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s the kind of cookie that sparks conversation and brings a smile to everyone’s face.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I personally love enjoying these shortbread cookies with a steaming cup of chai (naturally!), they’re also fantastic with coffee, hot chocolate, or even a glass of cold milk. For a truly decadent experience, try crumbling them over vanilla ice cream or using them as a base for a mini cheesecake.

Here are a few serving suggestions and variations to get your creative juices flowing:

• Drizzle with White Chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled shortbread for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a bright and zesty twist.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.
• Serve with Chai-Spiced Whipped Cream: Whip up some heavy cream with a touch of sugar and a pinch of chai spices for a truly indulgent accompaniment.
• Crumble into Parfaits: Layer the crumbled shortbread with yogurt, berries, and granola for a delightful breakfast or dessert parfait.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! Add your favorite spices, try different extracts, or even dip the cookies in chocolate. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Masala Chai Shortbread recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s the perfect treat to bake for yourself, to share with friends and family, or to bring to your next holiday gathering. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What did you think? Did you make any variations? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy baking! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do. It is the perfect treat for any occasion.