Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Matcha Butter Cookies You'll Adore
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 91 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 cup Cake Flour (Can be replaced with all-purpose flour, but texture may vary.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder (Culinary grade matcha can be used but may alter flavor intensity.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (European butter is recommended for best flavor.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 4 large Egg Yolks; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/4 cup Whole Milk (More milk can be added for a thinner consistency if needed.)

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As the kettle quietly steams in the corner, my mind drifts to the vibrant green hue of matcha gently dusting freshly baked cookies. These delicate Matcha Butter Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful indulgence for the palate, featuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you reaching for more. With the rich taste of ceremonial-grade matcha infused into every buttery bite, this simple baking recipe is perfect for both seasoned chefs and home-cooking enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are a quick triumph that elevates your everyday baking. And the best part? They can easily be customized to suit your cravings! Ready to bring a touch of Asian Fusion to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are Matcha Butter Cookies So Irresistible?

Delicate flavors: Each cookie bursts with the unique taste of ceremonial-grade matcha, offering a light yet satisfying sweetness.
Impressive simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe!
Customizable options: Add your twist by incorporating chocolate chips or nuts, creating a cookie that’s uniquely yours.
Perfect pairing: Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal afternoon treat. For a different flavor experience, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp or delightful Mango Cookies Delightful.
Crowd-pleaser: From family gatherings to casual get-togethers, these cookies have wide appeal, pleasing friends and family alike!

Matcha Butter Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and bulk to the cookies. Substitution Note: Can use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Cake Flour – Lighter flour that contributes to a tender texture. Substitution Note: Can be replaced with all-purpose flour, but texture may vary.
Salt – Enhances flavor.
Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder – Provides a vibrant green color and earthy flavor. Substitution Note: Culinary grade matcha can be used but may alter flavor intensity.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Note: European butter is recommended for best flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in browning.
Egg Yolks – Adds moisture, richness, and helps bind the cookies.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture to the dough and helps achieve the desired consistency. Note: More milk can be added for a thinner consistency if needed.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Environment
Start by preheating your refrigerator, and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to ensure your delicate Matcha Butter Cookies don’t stick. This initial step is crucial for cookie success, as it creates a non-stick surface and prepares for easy cooling after piping the dough.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cake flour, salt, and ceremonial grade matcha powder. Sift this mixture well, using a whisk to aerate and evenly incorporate the ingredients. This step not only enhances the texture but also ensures that the vibrant matcha is evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. The goal here is to create a rich and creamy base that will contribute to the melt-in-your-mouth quality of your Matcha Butter Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and whole milk to the creamed butter mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until all components are well integrated and the mixture appears smooth and homogenous. This step is essential for adding richness and moisture to your cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix the sifted dry ingredients into your butter mixture in two parts. Using low speed, combine until no visible flour remains. Be careful not to overmix; the dough for your Matcha Butter Cookies should come together beautifully, creating a perfect texture for piping.

Step 6: Pipe Cookie Shapes
Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 2-inch rounds onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie for even baking. Once piped, place the sheets in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough, preventing overspreading during baking.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking Matcha Butter Cookies, allowing them to develop a lightly golden edge while maintaining a soft center. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking your first tray to achieve consistent results.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Once chilled, bake the cookies one tray at a time in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn just lightly golden; this indicates they’re ready. Avoid overbaking to maintain the tender texture that makes these Matcha Butter Cookies delightful.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. This resting period helps set their structure while also preventing breakage. Once cooled, enjoy your perfectly baked Matcha Butter Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage Tips for Matcha Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Keep any leftover baked cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; ensure they’re in a sealed container to retain their soft texture.

Freezer: Freeze cookie dough for up to 3 months. For convenience, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for your Matcha Butter Cookies.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality!

Expert Tips for Matcha Butter Cookies

Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, affecting the delightful texture you’re aiming for.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough that enhances your Matcha Butter Cookies.
Chill for Perfection: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough prevents overspreading and helps the cookies maintain their lovely shape during baking.
Check Baking Time: Since ovens vary, start checking your cookies at the 9-minute mark. Remember, they should have lightly golden edges for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Variability in Matcha: Feel free to experiment with different matcha intensities. Some brands may offer a more robust flavor, so adjust the quantity to match your taste preference.

What to Serve with Delicate Matcha Butter Cookies?

Indulging in Matcha Butter Cookies opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your afternoon treat.

Jasmine Green Tea: The floral notes of jasmine harmonize beautifully with the earthy matcha, creating a soothing experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the delicate buttery cookies, providing a refreshing contrast. Enjoy them together for a decadent dessert!
Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or sweet strawberries add a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the cookies wonderfully.
Dark Chocolate Truffles: Rich, bitter chocolate enhances the sweet matcha flavor and makes for a luxurious dessert option.
Honey-Lemon Iced Tea: This refreshing drink’s sweetness and citrus notes blend flawlessly with the matcha’s earthy taste, making it a perfect thirst-quencher.
White Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm, silky drizzle of white chocolate adds a touch of sweetness and indulgence to every bite, enhancing the flavors of matcha cookies.
Coconut Macaroons: Pairing these chewy treats with matcha cookies offers a delightful textural contrast that will have you reaching for more!
Almond Milk Latte: This creamy beverage’s nutty notes perfectly complement the buttery cookies, making it a cozy pairing for a perfect afternoon break.
Chai Spice Cake: The warm spices in chai cake echo the flavors of matcha while offering a hearty element to your dessert table.

Make Ahead Options

These Matcha Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain freshness. Alternatively, once piped onto baking sheets, the cookies can chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough directly into the preheated oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it easy to whip up a batch of delightful Matcha Butter Cookies whenever cravings strike, saving you valuable time without sacrificing quality!

Matcha Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Matcha Butter Cookies with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat that still captures that buttery goodness.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips before piping for a luscious chocolatey contrast to the matcha flavor.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the cookies.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon or orange zest for a zesty twist that brightens up the matcha’s earthy flavor.
Culinary Matcha: If you have culinary grade matcha on hand, use it instead of ceremonial grade for a more intense matcha flavor—just be mindful of the slight taste variation.
Spiced Cookies: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice that adds a cozy depth to each cookie, perfect for chilly afternoons.
Coconut Crunch: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with the green tea notes.
Cowboy Cookies: For a heartier option, mix in oats and a handful of chocolate chips for a cookie that’s chewy, satisfying, and oh-so-yummy!

Each of these variations provides an opportunity to explore different flavors, making your Matcha Butter Cookies a delightful centerpiece, whether enjoyed alone or as part of a larger spread. With a cup of tea or coffee on the side, you’re all set for a comforting afternoon snack! For more delightful recipes, don’t forget to try my Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies for a different but equally enjoyable treat!

Matcha Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of matcha should I use for the best flavor?
For the most delightful Matcha Butter Cookies, I recommend using ceremonial-grade matcha. This type not only provides a vibrant green color but also offers a rich, earthy flavor that culinary-grade matcha may not fully replicate. If you’re on a budget, culinary-grade matcha can work, but be prepared for a milder taste.

How should I store my Matcha Butter Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftover cookies, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week—just ensure they are sealed to maintain their soft and delicate texture.

Can I freeze cookie dough for Matcha Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. To do this, scoop the piped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer the dough to a sturdy freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Matcha Butter Cookies spread too much, it often means the dough was either too warm or not chilled long enough before baking. Make sure to thoroughly refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can affect its texture.

Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just ensure the specific type you choose measures similarly to regular all-purpose flour. Additionally, if you’re concerned about eggs, you could experiment with an egg substitute, although this may slightly alter the texture of your cookies.

What should I do if my butter is too hard to mix?
If your butter is too hard, it might not combine well with your other ingredients, affecting the final texture. To soften butter, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using, or briefly microwave it in 5-second intervals until just softened (but do not melt!). This ensures a smooth blend, achieving the creamy consistency needed for your Matcha Butter Cookies.