Matcha Cookies

Short Description

Matcha Cookies are a delightful fusion of traditional cookie indulgence and the earthy sophistication of Japanese green tea. These vibrant green treats offer a unique balance of sweetness and subtle bitterness, making them a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or a stand-alone dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Distinctive Flavor: The earthy notes of matcha combined with the sweetness of white chocolate create a harmonious taste experience.
• Visually Appealing: Their striking green hue makes them stand out on any dessert table.
• Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies are accessible even to novice bakers.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Matcha green tea powder
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Eggs
• White chocolate chips

Directions

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sifted matcha powder to eliminate any clumps.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the vanilla extract and eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, beating until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently mix in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor and prevent excessive spreading during baking.
7. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft.
10. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Matcha Cookies: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement. Opt for dairy-free white chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
• Matcha Shortbread Cookies: Omit the white chocolate chips and increase the butter slightly for a denser, crumbly texture.
• Matcha Almond Cookies: Add finely chopped almonds to the dough for a nutty flavor and added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What type of matcha powder is best for baking?

Culinary-grade matcha is ideal for baking due to its robust flavor and cost-effectiveness compared to ceremonial-grade matcha.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.

Why is it important to chill the dough?

Chilling solidifies the fat in the dough, preventing cookies from spreading too much during baking and resulting in a chewier texture.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely. Dark chocolate provides a richer contrast to the matcha flavor, offering a less sweet alternative.

How do I prevent the cookies from turning brown?

Avoid overbaking and ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Baking at a lower temperature can help maintain the vibrant green color.

Are these cookies caffeinated?

Yes, matcha contains caffeine, though the amount per cookie is relatively low. However, sensitivity varies by individual.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Certainly. Chopped macadamia nuts or almonds complement the flavors well and add texture.

How do I achieve a more intense green color?

Using high-quality matcha powder and avoiding overbaking will help maintain a bright green hue.

Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?

Yes, while an electric mixer makes the process easier, you can cream the butter and sugars by hand using a sturdy spoon or whisk.

What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

For accuracy, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to excess.

Conclusion

Matcha Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional cookies, combining the unique flavor of green tea with the sweetness of white chocolate. Their striking appearance and balanced taste make them a favorite for both casual snacking and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe provides a straightforward path to creating a treat that’s sure to impress.

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