Matcha cookies are a modern bakery favorite, combining the earthy, slightly bitter notes of Japanese green tea with the comforting texture of classic cookies. With their vibrant green color and balanced sweetness, matcha green tea cookies have become a popular dessert in cafés, bakeries, and home kitchens worldwide.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make bakery-style matcha cookies, choose the best matcha powder for baking, avoid common mistakes, and explore popular variations like matcha white chocolate cookies and vegan matcha cookies.
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What Are Matcha Cookies?
Matcha cookies are cookies made with matcha powder, a finely ground green tea powder traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. When used in baking, matcha adds:
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A natural green color
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A rich umami flavor
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A subtle bitterness that balances sweetness
They are often referred to as green tea cookies or Japanese matcha cookies, especially in Western bakeries.
Why Matcha Cookies Are So Popular
The growing popularity of matcha desserts has pushed matcha cookies into the spotlight. Key reasons include:
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Rising interest in Japanese-inspired desserts
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Visual appeal for cafés and social media
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Perceived health benefits of matcha
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Easy pairing with white chocolate, vanilla, and nuts
Popular Types of Matcha Cookies
Chewy Matcha Cookies
Soft centers with slightly crisp edges the most searched texture.
Soft Matcha Cookies
Light, tender, and cake-like.
Crispy Matcha Cookies
Thin and crunchy, similar to matcha shortbread.
Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies
A classic combination that balances matcha’s bitterness.
Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Cracked surfaces and powdered sugar coating for visual appeal.
Understanding Matcha and Popular Matcha Drink Recipes
Key Ingredients for Matcha Cookies
Matcha Powder for Baking
Choosing the right matcha is critical.
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Use culinary grade matcha powder
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Avoid low-quality matcha that turns brown
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Ceremonial grade is optional, not necessary
Other Essential Ingredients
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Unsalted butter
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Brown sugar and white sugar
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Egg
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Vanilla extract
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Salt
Classic Matcha Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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2–3 tablespoons matcha powder
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½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup white sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
How to Make Matcha Cookies (Step-by-Step)
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Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy
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Add egg and vanilla, mix well
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Sift flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt
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Combine wet and dry ingredients gently
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Chill the matcha cookie dough for 30–60 minutes
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Scoop and bake at 340°F (170°C) for 10–12 minutes
This method produces chewy matcha cookies with a bright green color.
How to Keep Matcha Cookies Green
One of the most common questions is: “Why are my matcha cookies brown?”
To maintain vibrant color:
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Bake at lower temperatures
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Avoid overbaking
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Use fresh, high-quality matcha powder
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Store cookies away from heat and light
Matcha Cookies Variations
These variations attract strong search volume:
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Vegan matcha cookies
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Gluten-free matcha cookies
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Dairy-free matcha cookies
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Eggless matcha cookies
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Matcha cookies with white chocolate
Are Matcha Cookies Healthy?
Compared to regular cookies, matcha cookies:
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Contain antioxidants from matcha
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Offer a mild caffeine boost
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Feel less heavy due to balanced sweetness
However, they are still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation.
How to Store Matcha Cookies
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Room temperature: 3–5 days in an airtight container
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Freezer (cookie dough): up to 2 months
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Reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes
Matcha Cookies FAQs (People Also Ask)
Do matcha cookies taste bitter?
No, when properly balanced, matcha cookies are mildly earthy and sweet.
Can I use ceremonial grade matcha for cookies?
Yes, but culinary grade matcha is more cost-effective for baking.
Can you freeze matcha cookie dough?
Yes, freezing dough preserves flavor and color well.
What pairs best with matcha cookies?
White chocolate, vanilla, almond, and milk are ideal pairings.
Are matcha cookies caffeinated?
Yes, they contain a small amount of caffeine from matcha.
Conclusion
Matcha cookies are a visually stunning, flavorful dessert that works equally well for home baking, cafés, and professional bakeries. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create bakery-style green tea cookies that are chewy, vibrant, and consistently delicious.
