There’s something magical about a batch of freshly baked cookies. Now imagine adding the earthy, slightly grassy notes of green tea powder to the mix. That’s what makes this matcha cookies recipe a standout treat in my kitchen. The vibrant green color alone grabs attention, but the flavor is where the magic truly lies. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend, preparing snacks for friends, or simply craving a unique twist on the classic cookie, these matcha cookies fit right in. They strike a balance between indulgence and wellness, making them a great option for anyone who loves both flavor and nutrition.
Table of contents
Matcha Cookies: Recipe Card
Matcha green tea Cookies
24
cookies15
minutes10
minutes240
kcalMatcha Green Tea Cookies are a delightful fusion of traditional cookie sweetness and the subtle, earthy flavor of matcha. These cookies are not only visually striking with their vibrant green color, but they also offer a unique taste experience that’s both refreshing and comforting.
Keep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
2 tablespoons matcha powder: High-quality matcha will give the best flavor and vibrant green color.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies without overpowering the matcha flavor.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a slight caramel flavor and keeps the cookies soft.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and sweetness.
Optional: White chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Ensure the matcha is well incorporated to avoid clumps.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Optional Add-ins: If desired, fold in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an added crunch and flavor.
- Shape the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are slightly golden. The centers may appear a bit undercooked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use good-quality matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough, it helps prevent spreading.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @therecipemasterblog on Instagram and hashtag it with #therecipemaster
Like this recipe?
Follow @therecipemasterblog on Pinterest
Follow us on Facebook!
Follow The Recipe Master on Facebook
What Makes These Matcha Cookies So Good
What makes this matcha cookies recipe so special is how it brings together simple pantry staples with one powerhouse ingredient: matcha. This finely ground green tea powder is known not only for its flavor but also for its antioxidant benefits. The recipe is straightforward, yet the results feel bakery-worthy every time.
Unlike some cookies that lean too sweet, these are perfectly balanced. The matcha adds an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with just the right amount of sugar. You can customize them endlessly, add white chocolate chips for creamy sweetness, sprinkle flaky salt on top for contrast, or keep them simple and pure.
Another reason this recipe works? It’s quick. In under 30 minutes, you can have warm, fragrant cookies cooling on your counter. They’re also adaptable: swap butter for coconut oil if you want a dairy-free version, or use almond flour for a gluten-free batch.
What to Prep Ahead (So You’re Not Rushing Later)
To keep things smooth and stress-free when baking these cookies, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s what you can do in advance:
- Soften the butter: Leave it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting. This ensures the perfect creamy texture.
- Sift the matcha powder: Matcha tends to clump, so sifting guarantees a smooth, even green hue in the dough.
- Measure ingredients ahead: Having your flour, sugar, and baking powder measured makes mixing quick and clean.
- Line your baking sheet: Parchment paper or a silicone mat saves time and prevents sticking.
- Preheat the oven: Always preheat to the right temperature for even baking.
Baker’s Insider Secrets
Baking matcha cookies might seem simple, but small tweaks can take them from good to extraordinary. Here are some expert tips to ensure you achieve the best possible results:
1. Sift the Matcha Powder
Matcha powder can clump together, which could result in uneven distribution in the dough. To avoid this, always sift your matcha powder before adding it to your dry ingredients. This ensures a smooth, even blend and helps the cookies maintain that vibrant green color.
2. Use Room Temperature Butter
When preparing cookie dough, it’s essential to use softened butter. Cold butter doesn’t mix as well with sugar, which can lead to a dense, uneven texture. Let your butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting to make the dough. It should be soft but not melty.
3. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients, gently fold them in until just combined. The key is to stop mixing as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour.
4. Chill the Dough
For the best texture, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies spread evenly during baking and enhances their chewy, soft texture. It also improves the overall flavor as it gives the ingredients time to meld together.
Flavor Variations to Try Next
One of the best things about matcha cookies is their versatility. Whether you prefer them sweeter, more savory, or want to mix in some unexpected ingredients, the basic recipe can be easily adapted. Here are a few exciting variations to try:
1. Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adding white chocolate chips to matcha cookies creates a perfect sweet contrast to the slightly bitter taste of matcha. The creamy sweetness of the white chocolate enhances the delicate flavor of matcha, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. This variant is ideal for those who enjoy sweeter cookies with a luxurious feel.
How to Make It:
Simply fold in about ½ cup of white chocolate chips into the dough when you mix in the dry ingredients. Feel free to add more or less depending on your sweetness preference.
2. Matcha Coconut Cookies Recipe
Coconut and matcha are a match made in heaven! The richness of shredded coconut complements the earthy flavor of matcha, adding a tropical twist to your cookies. This version has a slightly chewy texture from the coconut flakes and a nice contrast in flavor.
How to Make It:
Add ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough along with the dry ingredients. For an extra coconut kick, you can also drizzle a little coconut milk over the cookies before baking.
3. Matcha Sesame Cookies
For a savory twist, try adding sesame seeds to your matcha cookies. Sesame’s nutty flavor provides a delightful contrast to the slightly bitter, sweet matcha. The sesame seeds also add a lovely crunch, making these cookies both flavorful and texturally interesting.
How to Make It:
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds into your dough when you fold in the dry ingredients. For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the cookies before baking.
FAQ about Matcha Cookies Recipe
It’s best to use culinary-grade matcha for baking. It has a vibrant green color and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for cookies, without the higher cost of ceremonial-grade matcha.
Yes! If you prefer a milder matcha flavor, reduce the matcha powder by half a teaspoon. For a stronger matcha taste, add an extra half teaspoon, but be careful—too much can make the cookies taste bitter.
Store your matcha cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Health Benefits of Matcha Cookies Recipe
You might be wondering are matcha cookies just a delicious treat, or do they offer some health benefits? The answer is yes! While these cookies are certainly indulgent, they also come with a boost of nutrients, thanks to the matcha powder.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, specifically catechins, which help protect the body from free radical damage. Antioxidants are known for their potential to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and even support cardiovascular health.
2. Boosts Energy and Focus
Matcha contains caffeine, but unlike coffee, it provides a smooth, sustained energy boost without the jitters or crash. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine (an amino acid found in matcha) helps improve focus, concentration, and mental clarity.
3. Supports Metabolism
The green tea catechins in matcha have been linked to increased metabolism and fat burning. While eating a cookie might not directly lead to weight loss, the ingredients in matcha are supportive of a healthy metabolism, making these cookies a guilt-free indulgence.
4. Promotes Relaxation
Despite the caffeine content, matcha also contains L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. This makes matcha cookies a perfect snack for enjoying a peaceful moment with your favorite cup of tea.
A Sweet Ending with Matcha Magic
Matcha cookies are a delicious and versatile treat that offer a perfect balance of earthy, slightly bitter flavor and sweet, buttery texture. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations like white chocolate chips or sesame seeds, these cookies are sure to impress.
They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and offer some hidden health benefits that elevate them beyond just a simple dessert. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea, these cookies are a treat you’ll want to keep coming back to.
If you like this easy matcha coockies, try to accompany them with this copycat of Starbucks Matcha Latte!
Leave a Reply