Matcha Cookie Recipe: How to Make Soft and Flavorful Japanese Green Tea Cookies

Matcha cookies are the perfect fusion of traditional Japanese tea culture and modern baking. These delicate, green-hued cookies offer a subtle, earthy sweetness from finely ground green tea powder, making them a unique treat loved worldwide. Whether you’re a matcha fan or just curious to try something new, this matcha cookie recipe will guide you through making soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies right at home.

What is Matcha? Benefits & Flavor Profile

Matcha is a powdered form of specially grown green tea leaves, prized for its vibrant color, rich antioxidants, and distinctive flavor. Unlike regular green tea, matcha is whisked into water, so you consume the entire leaf, giving it a stronger taste and more health benefits. The flavor is grassy yet slightly sweet, with a creamy umami undertone that pairs beautifully with baked goods.

Ingredients Needed for Matcha Cookies

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp matcha green tea powder (culinary grade)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture

Step-by-Step Matcha Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.

Step 6: Add Optional Mix-Ins

Fold in any optional mix-ins like white chocolate chips or nuts.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your fingers.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Baking Perfect Matcha Cookies

• Use high-quality culinary grade matcha powder for the best flavor and color.
• Don’t overmix the dough; this keeps the cookies tender.
• Slightly underbaking the cookies ensures a soft, chewy texture.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Experiment with mix-ins like white chocolate or macadamia nuts to enhance flavor.

Variations and Add-ins

Try adding white chocolate chips for sweetness, toasted almonds or macadamia nuts for crunch, or even a drizzle of matcha glaze for extra green tea goodness.

Serving Suggestions for Matcha Cookies

Serve your matcha cookies with a cup of hot green tea or matcha latte to double down on the flavor experience. They also pair well with light desserts like fruit sorbets or vanilla ice cream. Pack them in decorative tins for gifts or enjoy as an afternoon snack with coffee.

Storing Matcha Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

This matcha cookie recipe is an easy and delicious way to bring the rich flavors of Japanese green tea into your kitchen. Soft, subtly sweet, and beautifully green, these cookies are perfect for any occasion — from casual tea time to festive celebrations. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the calming and refreshing taste of matcha in every bite!