Matcha Green Tea Cookies

Name: Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Green Eating

I absolutely love baking, and these Matcha Green Tea Cookies are one of my favorite treats. The unique earthy flavor of matcha, combined with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, makes these cookies irresistible. Each bite is a delightful experience, transporting me to a serene Japanese tea garden. I enjoy sharing them with friends and family, and they always ask for more! What's great is how simple the ingredients are, yet the results are impressive and sophisticated.

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:34:19.516Z

When I first tried baking with matcha, I was captivated by its vibrant color and unique flavor. The subtle bitterness of matcha pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful balance. I initially experimented by adding matcha to traditional cookie recipes, and it quickly became a favorite among my family.

One tip I've learned is to sift the matcha powder before mixing it in, as this prevents clumps and ensures a smooth dough. This simple step makes a big difference in texture, resulting in a lovely cookie that is both crisp on the edges and soft in the center.

Why You Will Love These Cookies
Unique earthy flavor of matcha that stands out
Melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves
Perfect for tea time or as a unique gift

Choosing the Right Matcha

Not all matcha powders are created equal, and choosing the right one can significantly impact the flavor and color of your cookies. For baking, it's best to opt for culinary-grade matcha, which is specifically designed for recipes rather than ceremonial-grade matcha used for drinking. Look for a vibrant green color that indicates freshness. A dull or yellowish hue suggests older matcha that might not provide the desired flavor profile in your cookies.

When measuring the matcha, consider using a sifter to avoid clumps, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough. This way, each cookie will embody that distinct earthy essence, maximizing the unique flavor that makes these Matcha Green Tea Cookies so special. I often double-check the measurement to confirm it's level for consistency.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Cookies

Achieving the perfect texture is key. Make sure your butter is at room temperature but not too soft; it should yield slightly when pressed but still hold its shape. This state helps create air pockets during creaming, leading to light and fluffy cookies. If you're short on time, you can microwave the butter in short intervals, but be cautious not to melt it completely, as that can lead to denser cookies.

When you scoop the dough onto the baking sheet, using a cookie scoop or measuring spoon can ensure uniform size, which is important for even baking. Remember to leave ample space between each scoop; unfortunately, overcrowding can lead to cookies merging into each other for an unappealing result. If you prefer a slightly flatter cookie, gently press them down with a fork before baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious Matcha Green Tea Cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to mix well and enjoy the baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Matcha Green Tea Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In another mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.

Combine Mixtures

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

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious matcha cookies!

Serve the cookies with a cup of green tea for an authentic experience.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough.

Storage and Freshness

These Matcha Green Tea Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the dough before baking. Simply scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, just bake straight from the freezer—add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.

For a fun twist, you can also sandwich a layer of creamy frosting or ganache between two cookies after they're fully cooled. This will elevate the cookie experience and add a delightful contrast to the matcha flavor.

Variations to Explore

While these cookies are delicious on their own, don't hesitate to get creative! Consider adding white chocolate chips or macadamia nuts for a sweet twist. The harmonizing flavors enhance the richness, enhancing both the texture and taste of your cookies. Alternatively, dried cranberries or cherries will add a tart note that beautifully complements the matcha.

For those who appreciate a bit of spice, try incorporating a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom into the dry mix. It adds a warm depth to the flavor profile, making these cookies perfect year-round but especially delightful during autumn.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.

→ Can I add other flavors?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors such as lavender or citrus zest for a unique twist.