If you adore tea-flavored treats that are both elegant and easy to whip up, then this No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a luscious blend of buttery sweetness paired with the fragrant, floral notes of Earl Grey tea, all wrapped in a delightful no-bake bar that’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a charming addition to your dessert spread. This slice strikes the perfect balance between crisp textures from biscuits and nuts, and a creamy, subtly tea-infused base that melts in your mouth. It’s sophisticated yet approachable, and honestly, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to recipe for impressing guests or just treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that pack a punch individually and come together beautifully to create texture, flavor, and that lovely Earl Grey character. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring your slice is rich, fragrant, and perfectly set without baking.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a creamy richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that complements the tea’s citrusy notes.
- Earl Grey tea bags (or loose leaf): The star of the show, infusing the slice with its distinctive bergamot flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Brings sweetness and a smooth, luscious texture that holds the slice together.
- Crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers: Contribute a satisfying crunch and sturdy base.
- Desiccated coconut: Offers subtle sweetness and chewy texture.
- Crushed almonds or walnuts: Adds nutty depth and a welcome crunch, though these can be swapped or omitted.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies all the flavors.
- White chocolate (optional for topping): Adds a creamy, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the Earl Grey.
How to Make No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice Recipe
Step 1: Infuse the Butter and Sugar
Begin by gently melting the butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. This slow combination allows the sugar to dissolve completely, creating a smooth caramel-like base. Add the Earl Grey tea bags or loose tea leaves next, letting them steep gently for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir often to coax out the full bergamot flavor. Once infused, strain out the tea leaves carefully so your slice has a silky texture without any grit.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Return the fragrant butter and sugar mixture to the pan, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will become wonderfully smooth and rich, the perfect binder for all your dry ingredients. Mixing well here ensures each bite is uniformly luscious and infused with that lovely tea aroma.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Mix
In a large bowl, combine your crushed digestive biscuits (or graham crackers), desiccated coconut, and crushed nuts. These dry ingredients lend the slice its much-loved crunch and texture contrasts. Make sure everything is evenly mixed to distribute flavor and texture beautifully throughout.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the warm, aromatic Earl Grey-infused wet mixture over the combined dry ingredients. Stir rapidly but gently until every crumb and flake is thoroughly coated. This is where the magic happens — your slice mixture should start to come together, sticky and promising.
Step 5: Set the Slice
Press the mixture firmly into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan. This pressing step is key to getting those neat, sliceable bars later. For an optional elegant touch, melt some white chocolate and spread or drizzle it over the top for a creamy, sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the tea notes. Chill your slice in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until it’s firm and set.
How to Serve No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of extra melted white chocolate can elevate the presentation. For a refined finish, consider a few edible flowers or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts on top. These add texture and a pop of color, making your slice as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This slice pairs beautifully with a cup of hot Earl Grey tea or a light fruit salad for a fresh contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can also complement the rich flavors while adding a silky coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a tea party or a special occasion, cut the slice into small squares and serve on a tiered stand alongside your favorite biscuits and finger sandwiches. Wrap individual pieces in parchment and tie with twine for charming little gifts or party favors. The possibilities are as delightful as the flavors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Storing it chilled ensures the slice maintains its firm texture and fresh flavor, making it perfect to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep the slice longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
This slice is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t typically recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly softer slice, leave it out at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of tea instead of Earl Grey?
Absolutely! While Earl Grey gives a distinct citrusy bergamot flavor, other black teas or even chai blends can work well. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift, so choose a tea you enjoy and that complements the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this slice nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This way, you keep the crunch and flavor without compromising dietary needs.
Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key to achieving the creamy richness and sweetness without baking. If you need a dairy-free option, use a coconut condensed milk alternative, but the texture and flavor will slightly differ.
How long will the slice keep its freshness?
Stored properly in the fridge, the slice will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. Beyond that, the flavors might mellow, and the texture may change.
Can I make this slice ahead for a party?
Definitely! It’s perfect for preparation a day or two in advance. The flavors even deepen as it chills, and you’ll have the stress-free pleasure of serving a stunning, no-bake treat with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice Recipe is one of those delightful discoveries that add charm and sophistication to your dessert repertoire without any fuss. Whether you’re craving a teatime treat or want to impress friends with a unique and delicious bar, this slice is reliable, flavorful, and utterly addictive. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with its tender, tea-kissed magic.
Print
No-Bake Earl Grey Infused Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful no-bake dessert bar infused with the fragrant flavors of Earl Grey tea, combining crushed digestive biscuits, coconut, and nuts with a rich, buttery condensed milk mixture. Perfect for an elegant afternoon tea treat or a quick, fuss-free dessert.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup crushed almonds or walnuts
Optional Topping
- White chocolate (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Melt and Infuse: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar over low heat. Add the Earl Grey tea leaves (remove from tea bags if using loose leaf) and steep gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to infuse fully.
- Strain and Combine: Strain out the tea leaves using a fine mesh sieve, returning the infused butter and sugar mixture to the pan. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits, desiccated coconut, and crushed nuts, ensuring an even blend of textures.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the warm tea-infused butter mixture over the dry ingredient blend. Stir thoroughly until all components are well-coated and integrated into a sticky, uniform mixture.
- Shape the Slice: Firmly press the combined mixture into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan to form an even layer.
- Add Optional Topping: If desired, melt white chocolate and either drizzle or spread it evenly over the pressed base for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the slice to firm up adequately.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, cut into 12 individual bars and serve chilled, enjoying the subtle citrus and bergamot notes from the Earl Grey infusion.
Notes
- You can swap the almonds or walnuts for seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free variation.
- Add a little lemon zest to the base mixture or on top of the white chocolate for a bright, citrusy twist that accentuates the Earl Grey flavor.
- Ensure the tea is steeped gently over low heat to prevent any bitterness from developing.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
