There’s nothing quite as charming as a delicate teacup cradled in your hand, and this Pulchritudie English Tea Set brings that old‑world elegance right into my colonial cottage here in Coventry, Pennsylvania. The fine porcelain, painted with soft floral motifs and trimmed in gleaming gold, feels like a tribute to bygone afternoon teas. Each cup balances perfectly on the saucer, and the generous handle invites a gentle grip as you sip your favorite brew.

To add this graceful tea set to your own table, you can find it here:

Pulchritudie Teacup & Saucer English Tea Set

Of course, a lovely teacup deserves a sweet companion. I’ve paired it with my favorite Rosewater Shortbread Cookies—tender, fragrant, and perfect for resting alongside your next cup.

Rosewater Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon rosewater
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 teaspoon finely chopped dried rose petals

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
3. Flavor Base: Mix in the rosewater and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add Flour: Gradually fold in the flour until the dough just comes together. If using, gently knead in the rose petals.
5. Shape & Chill: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, pat into a ½‑inch thick rectangle, and wrap in plastic. Chill for 30 minutes.
6. Cut Cookies: Unwrap the dough and cut into shapes with your favorite cookie cutter. Arrange on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake: Bake 12–15 minutes, until the edges are very lightly golden. Let cookies rest on the sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. Finish & Serve: Dust lightly with powdered sugar. Serve alongside a freshly brewed cup in your new Pulchritudie teacup for a moment of floral elegance.

Here’s to many afternoon moments of beauty and sweetness—may this tea set and these cookies bring you as much delight as they do to my heart.

—Mom Mom (Grandma Helen)