There’s something magical about the combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and the delicate floral notes of Earl Grey tea. Add a silky frosting and a sprinkle of rose petals, and you’ve got a dessert that feels as indulgent as it is beautiful. These Frosted Earl Grey Brownies are the perfect way to elevate your baking game and impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether you’re making these for a cozy weekend at home or a special occasion like Valentine’s Day, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite.
The recipe combines the familiar comfort of brownies with a sophisticated twist. Earl Grey tea, with its hints of bergamot and citrus, subtly infuses both the brownie base and the frosting, creating a layered flavor profile. The frosting is smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweetened, while the addition of dried rose petals on top adds a romantic and decorative flair. These brownies are also gluten-free, thanks to a blend of buckwheat flour, sweet rice flour, and tapioca starch, making them an inclusive treat for everyone.
For me, this recipe is about savoring those little moments of joy—whether it’s sharing a warm brownie with someone you love or simply treating yourself. I first tried Earl Grey-infused desserts a few years ago, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of tea and chocolate felt like a revelation, balancing rich, decadent flavors with a light, aromatic twist. So, when I stumbled upon Christina Lane’s “Best Ever Frosted Brownies” recipe, I knew I had to adapt it with my favorite Earl Grey twist. Trust me, once you take a bite of these brownies, you’ll never look at regular brownies the same way again.
Why You’ll Love This Earl Grey brownies Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these Earl Grey brownies. First, they’re incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks (and tastes!) like it came straight from a fancy bakery.
The flavor is what really sets these brownies apart. The rich chocolate is perfectly complemented by the subtle floral and citrus notes from the Earl Grey tea. It’s a match made in dessert heaven. The frosting, infused with tea and cocoa powder, is the perfect finishing touch—creamy, chocolatey, and just the right amount of sweet. And let’s not forget the rose petals! They’re optional, but they add a pop of color and an aromatic elegance that makes these brownies feel truly special.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s family-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults, these brownies are the perfect choice. Kids will love the fudgy texture and chocolatey flavor, while adults will appreciate the complexity of the tea and the stunning presentation. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so you can serve them with confidence at gatherings.
Preparation Time and Servings
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes cooling time)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: 8 brownies
Calories per serving: ~250
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1/4 cup buckwheat flour: Adds a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the chocolate.
- 1/4 cup sweet rice flour: Helps create a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons tapioca starch: Adds structure to the gluten-free batter.
- 1 teaspoon ground Earl Grey tea: Use loose-leaf tea or the contents of a tea bag for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Melts into the batter for a rich, fudgy base.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: The star ingredient for deep chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- Optional: dried edible rose petals: For garnish.
For the Frosting:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened for a creamy base.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Creates the perfect frosting texture.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder: Adds a chocolatey richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground Earl Grey tea: Infuses the frosting with flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness.
- Pinch of kosher salt: Balances the flavors.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream: Adjust as needed for a spreadable consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Earl Grey brownies
1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides to make removing the brownies easier later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the buckwheat flour, sweet rice flour, tapioca starch, and ground Earl Grey tea. Set aside.
3. Melt the Butter and Cocoa Powder: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in short bursts, stirring in between until fully melted. Add the cocoa powder and sugar, and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla extract and kosher salt. Once the mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want for fudgy brownies.
6. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the surface is dry and begins to crack slightly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before removing them. This step is crucial for clean slices and a perfect texture.
8. Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and ground Earl Grey tea. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then slowly add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
9. Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish, or swirl it for a textured look.
10. Add the Rose Petals: If using, sprinkle dried rose petals on top of the frosting for a gorgeous finishing touch.
How to Serve the Earl Grey brownies
These brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature. Slice them into neat squares and serve them on a pretty platter for a stunning presentation. Pair them with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving these alongside fresh fruit or a light dessert like a lemon sorbet to balance the richness. For an extra indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm brownie slice.
Additional Tips
- Use High-Quality Tea: The Earl Grey tea is the star of this recipe, so opt for a good-quality loose-leaf variety for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: To keep the brownies tender and fudgy, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the brownies dense.
- Chill the Frosting if Needed: If your kitchen is warm and the frosting feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Test for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking the brownies a few minutes before the minimum bake time.
- Store Properly: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Substitute: If you don’t have buckwheat flour, try almond flour for a slightly nuttier flavor.
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warming spice note.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of the regular egg.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for added texture.
Freezing and Storage
To freeze, wrap individual brownie slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Special Equipment
- A loaf pan (approximately 8×4 inches)
- Parchment paper for easy cleanup
- A hand mixer or whisk for the frosting
These Frosted Earl Grey Brownies with Rose Petals are more than just dessert—they’re an experience. Try them, and don’t forget to share your photos!
Print
Frosted Earl Grey Brownies with Rose Petals
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 8 brownies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Frosted Earl Grey Brownies are rich, fudgy, and infused with the delicate floral notes of Earl Grey tea. Topped with a creamy chocolate frosting and elegant dried rose petals, they’re gluten-free and perfect for any occasion, from casual tea time to special celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1/4 cup buckwheat flour
- 1/4 cup sweet rice flour
- 2 tbsp tapioca starch
- 1 tsp ground Earl Grey tea
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 large egg
For the Frosting:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp ground Earl Grey tea
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix buckwheat flour, sweet rice flour, tapioca starch, and ground Earl Grey tea.
- Melt butter, then mix it with cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla, salt, and the egg.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 45–50 minutes. Cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, Earl Grey tea, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add milk as needed for consistency.
- Frost cooled brownies and garnish with dried rose petals.
Notes
- For stronger Earl Grey flavor, increase the amount of ground tea slightly.
- Dried rose petals are optional but highly recommended for an elegant finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion