Taylor Swift’s chai tea cookies have taken the baking world by storm. The unique combination of chai spices and a classic cookie recipe has made Taylor Swift chai tea cookies an irresistible treat for both Swifties and casual bakers alike. These cookies are perfect for fall, holiday gatherings, or simply cozy nights in.
If you’re wondering how to make Taylor Swift chai tea cookies at home, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some creative variations to make the best batch of these iconic cookies. Not only are Taylor Swift chai tea cookies easy to make, but they’re also perfect for impressing guests with a unique, flavorful twist on traditional sugar cookies.
Why Are Taylor Swift’s Chai Tea Cookies So Popular?
When Taylor Swift first shared her chai tea cookie recipe with fans, it quickly became a viral hit. The blend of chai spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—gives Taylor Swift chai tea cookies their distinct flavor, making them an ideal treat for fall gatherings or relaxing evenings at home.
These cookies don’t just taste good—they’re also a reflection of Swift’s signature style: sweet, comforting, and a little bit unexpected. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to both beginner bakers and seasoned professionals, which has helped fuel its popularity.
Ingredients for Taylor Swift’s Chai Tea Cookies
The ingredient list for these chai tea cookies is straightforward, using common baking staples you likely already have on hand. The key to this recipe is the chai spices, which give the cookies their distinctive flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Cookie Dough Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil is ideal)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adds lightness and texture)
- 1 large egg (for structure and moisture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
- 1 chai tea bag (empty the contents into the dough for spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons milk (or eggnog, for a richer flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Chai-Spiced Glaze Ingredients:
- 1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons milk (or eggnog for added richness)
Substitutions and Customizations:
- Vegan: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) as replacements for dairy butter and a regular egg.
- Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
- Dairy-free options: Swap out milk or eggnog with almond milk, oat milk, or another non-dairy alternative.
If you’d like to experiment with your own blend of spices, consider making your own chai spice mix. A homemade blend can enhance the flavor and allow you to adjust the spice levels to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Taylor Swift’s Chai Tea Cookies
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making chai tea cookies. This method is easy to follow, and with a little attention to detail, you’ll end up with perfectly spiced cookies every time.
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Ingredients
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven will be at the correct temperature when your cookies are ready to bake.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dough
- Cream the butter and oil: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and vegetable oil until light and fluffy. This helps give the cookies their soft texture.
- Add sugars and wet ingredients: Gradually mix in the granulated sugar and powdered sugar until smooth. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the mixture until fully combined.
- Incorporate the chai spices: Open the chai tea bag and pour its contents into the dough. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well, making sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Add the dry ingredients: Slowly incorporate the flour and baking soda into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle.
- Stir in milk or eggnog: For a little extra moisture and richness, stir in the milk or eggnog. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but still easy to handle.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out tablespoon-sized balls of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball to allow for spreading during baking.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make the Chai-Spiced Glaze
To elevate your chai tea cookies, consider adding a sweet chai-spiced glaze. This simple glaze enhances the flavor and adds a lovely finish to the cookies. Here’s how to make it:
Glaze Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk (or eggnog) until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
- Once the cookies have completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the tops or dip the tops of the cookies directly into the glaze.
- Let the glaze set at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
The glaze not only adds a delightful sweetness but also enhances the overall chai flavor, making every bite more indulgent.
Creative Variations and Adaptations of Chai Tea Cookies
Taylor Swift’s chai tea cookies are delicious as-is, but there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on the recipe. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:
1. Chai Tea Cookie Bars
For a fun twist, you can turn the cookie dough into bars. Simply press the dough into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The result is a thicker, chewier version of the classic cookie, perfect for cutting into squares and serving at gatherings.
2. Vegan Chai Tea Cookies
As mentioned earlier, making these cookies vegan is simple. Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and substitute the milk or eggnog with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. These swaps will keep the cookies rich and flavorful while making them accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Gluten-Free Chai Tea Cookies
If you or someone you’re baking for is gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure the blend includes xanthan gum, which helps provide structure and texture similar to traditional flour. Double-check that your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
4. Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
For added texture and flavor, try mixing in ingredients like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or white chocolate chips. These additions complement the chai spices perfectly, giving the cookies more dimension and a bit of a festive twist, especially around the holidays.
Serving Suggestions for Chai Tea Cookies
These cookies are best served with a warm beverage, making them ideal for cozy evenings by the fire or as a sweet treat at a fall or winter gathering. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience:
- Chai Latte: Serve the cookies with a warm cup of chai latte to enhance the chai spices in the cookies. It’s the perfect pairing!
- Coffee: The sweetness of the cookies balances beautifully with the bitterness of black coffee or a cappuccino.
- Hot Chocolate: For a more indulgent experience, pair these cookies with a rich, creamy hot chocolate. The spiced cookies will add a nice contrast to the sweet, milky drink.
- Eggnog: If you’ve used eggnog in the dough or glaze, serve the cookies alongside a glass of eggnog for a festive holiday treat.
Storing and Freezing Chai Tea Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible, follow these storage tips:
Storing at Room Temperature
- Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. This method preserves the cookies’ soft and chewy texture.
Freezing Cookies and Dough
- You can also freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies for future enjoyment. To freeze the dough, shape it into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer the frozen dough balls into a resealable bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls directly onto a baking sheet and bake as instructed, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
For a more detailed guide on how to freeze cookie dough and bake later, check out this useful resource.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Type of Chai Tea Should I Use?
You can use any chai tea blend, but for the best results, opt for a bold spiced chai with ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black tea. Loose-leaf chai or high-quality bagged tea both work well.
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought sugar cookie dough and add chai spices to it. While this shortcut works, making the dough from scratch allows you to control the texture and flavor more effectively.
How Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Making these cookies vegan is easy! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flax egg. Additionally, use non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk in both the dough and glaze.
Do These Cookies Need to Be Refrigerated?
No, these cookies do not need to be refrigerated. You can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. However, if your kitchen is warm or humid, you may want to refrigerate them to keep the glaze from melting or becoming sticky.
How Long Do These Cookies Last?
These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you freeze the dough or baked cookies, they can last for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift’s chai tea cookies are a delightful combination of warm spices and soft, chewy texture, making them the perfect fall or winter treat. Whether you’re a fan of Swift or simply a fan of delicious cookies, this recipe offers something special for everyone. From the rich, comforting flavor of the chai spices to the versatility of the recipe, these cookies are guaranteed to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the perfect batch of chai tea cookies every time. Whether you enjoy them as-is, experiment with variations, or pair them with your favorite warm beverage, these cookies are sure to impress. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake a batch of Taylor Swift’s famous chai tea cookies!