Pink Tea Sugar Cookies

To Make the Cookies:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Prepare the Pink Tea Infusion:
   Steep 1 tablespoon of Organic Pink Tea leaves in 8 ounces of near-boiling, filtered water for 5-7 minutes. Strain the tea leaves and let the tea cool slightly. You’ll use this fragrant tea for both the cookie dough and the glaze.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Set aside.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to cream 226 grams (1 cup) of unsalted butter with 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar. Beat for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
   Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of the cooled pink tea to the butter mixture. Beat until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth, aromatic batter.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture. Beat on low speed until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

7. Shape the Cookies:
   Scoop the dough and form it into 2-inch balls, rolling them gently in your hands to create a smooth surface. Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet, spacing them 2-3 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The centers will remain soft but will firm up as they cool. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To Make the Glaze:

1. Mix the Glaze Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons of the cooled pink tea. Adjust the consistency with additional tea if needed; the glaze should be smooth and spreadable.

2. Chill the Glaze:
   Place the glaze in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps it thicken slightly and develop a smoother texture for easier application.

3. Decorate the Cookies:
   Once the cookies have cooled completely, spoon the glaze over the top of each cookie, allowing it to gently drip down the sides for a rustic look. Garnish with a light sprinkle of crushed tea leaves for an elegant finishing touch, if desired.

4. Set the Glaze:
   Let the cookies sit for several minutes to allow the glaze to set completely before serving.