Japanese Matcha Cookies (抹茶クッキー, Matcha Kukkī) are delicate butter cookies infused with premium Japanese matcha green tea powder. Known for their vibrant green color, crisp texture, and rich earthy flavor, these cookies perfectly balance the slight bitterness of matcha with the sweetness of buttery shortbread.

A favorite in Japanese bakeries, tea houses, and cafés, Matcha Cookies are commonly served with green tea, coffee, or as elegant homemade gifts. Their simple ingredients and beautiful appearance make them an ideal treat for holidays, afternoon tea, or everyday snacking.

What Are Matcha Cookies?

Matcha Cookies are Japanese-style butter cookies made with finely ground matcha powder, flour, butter, sugar, and egg. Unlike heavily sweetened cookies, they highlight the natural umami and subtle bitterness of ceremonial or culinary-grade matcha while maintaining a tender, crumbly texture.

Some versions include white chocolate, almonds, or black sesame seeds for additional flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

  • 200g all-purpose flour
  • 20g matcha powder (culinary grade)
  • 150g unsalted butter, softened
  • 100g powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins

  • 50g white chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
  • 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds

Kitchen Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Fine sieve
  • Plastic wrap
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters (optional)
  • Baking tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

How to Make Japanese Matcha Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

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

Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, matcha powder, and salt.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

If using white chocolate chips, almonds, or sesame seeds, gently fold them into the dough.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a log or flatten it into a disc.

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for 1 hour to make slicing and shaping easier.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).

If using a log, slice the dough into 5–7 mm (¼-inch) thick rounds.

Alternatively, roll out the dough and cut it into shapes using cookie cutters.

Arrange the cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between each one.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Avoid overbaking to preserve the bright green color of the matcha.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Matcha Cookies

  • Use high-quality Japanese matcha for the best color and flavor.
  • Sift the matcha to prevent lumps in the dough.
  • Chill the dough thoroughly to help the cookies keep their shape.
  • Do not overbake, as excessive heat can dull the vibrant green color and create a bitter taste.
  • Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.

Popular Variations

Matcha White Chocolate Cookies

Fold white chocolate chips into the dough for a creamy sweetness that complements the earthy matcha.

Matcha Almond Cookies

Add chopped roasted almonds for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.

Matcha Black Sesame Cookies

Mix black sesame seeds into the dough for a classic Japanese flavor combination.

Vegan Matcha Cookies

Replace the butter with plant-based butter and use a flaxseed egg or another suitable egg substitute.

Matcha Sandwich Cookies

Fill two cookies with white chocolate ganache or sweet red bean paste for an elegant dessert.

What to Serve with Matcha Cookies

These cookies pair beautifully with:

  • Matcha Green Tea
  • Sencha Tea
  • Hojicha (Roasted Green Tea)
  • Genmaicha (Green Tea with Roasted Rice)
  • Black Coffee
  • Latte
  • Vanilla Ice Cream

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks if your kitchen is warm.
  • Freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 2 months.
  • Freeze baked cookies for up to 1 month and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

  • Calories: 115
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 35mg

Nutrition values are approximate and vary depending on the ingredients used.

Health Benefits

  • Matcha is naturally rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins.
  • Contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus.
  • Homemade cookies allow better control over sugar and ingredient quality.
  • Matcha provides a small amount of caffeine for a gentle energy boost.
  • Using quality butter and fresh ingredients enhances both flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of matcha should I use?

Culinary-grade matcha is ideal for baking because it retains its flavor and color well during cooking. Ceremonial-grade matcha can also be used for a more refined taste but is generally more expensive.

Why did my cookies lose their bright green color?

Overbaking or using low-quality matcha can cause the cookies to turn brownish-green. Bake only until the edges are lightly set.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 2 months before baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking flour blend designed for cookies.

Why are my cookies too hard?

Overmixing the dough or baking them too long can make the cookies firm. Mix gently and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges begin to set.

Final Thoughts

Japanese Matcha Cookies are a delightful blend of buttery richness and the distinctive flavor of premium green tea. Their crisp texture, vibrant color, and elegant taste make them perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gift boxes, or everyday treats. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a warm cup of matcha or coffee, these authentic Japanese cookies bring the refined flavors of Japan into your home with every delicious bite.