As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of melting butter and sweet sugar began to weave its magic, instantly transporting me to a cozy café in Japan. Today, I'm excited to share my Soft & Chewy Matcha Crinkle Cookies, a delightful twist on a classic treat. These cookies perfectly blend comfort with a touch of elegance, offering a soft, fluffy texture that simply melts in your mouth. With their vibrant green hue and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, they not only taste divine but are visually stunning as well. Plus, this recipe requires just a few easily accessible ingredients, making it a no-fuss baking adventure that's perfect for any day of the week—or for adding a special touch to gatherings. Are you ready to bring a little taste of Japan into your home? Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Why Are Matcha Crinkle Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of earthy matcha and sweet sugar creates a delightful flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Visual Appeal: Their vibrant green color, dusted with powdered sugar, makes these cookies a showstopper for any occasion.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring a delightful experience without the fuss.
Chill Time Boost: Chilling the dough not only deepens the flavor but also enhances the texture for those perfect crinkles.
Perfect Pairing: These cookies pair beautifully with green tea or milk, making them an enjoyable treat for all ages.
For a cookie that’s sure to impress, be sure to check out my pistachio cream cookies for another sweet option!
Matcha Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Matcha powder (ceremonial-grade) – Infuses cookies with vibrant green color and distinct matcha flavor; use culinary-grade matcha for baking if ceremonial is not available.
- Baking powder – Helps cookies rise and maintain a fluffy texture.
- Salt – Enhances flavor balance.
- Large eggs (room temperature) – Acts as a binder and provides moisture; allowing eggs to warm improves blending.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in achieving the cookie's crisp outer layer.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Provides richness and moisture to the dough.
For Rolling
- Granulated sugar – Creates a slight crunch before baking.
- Powdered sugar – Gives the signature crinkle cookie appearance.
Now that you've gathered the ingredients for your Matcha Crinkle Cookies, you're just a step away from indulging in these delightful treats!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures that the matcha is evenly distributed, and there are no lumps in your mixture. Set this dry mix aside while we turn our attention to the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Gradually incorporate ½ cup of melted, unsalted butter while whisking continuously. This step adds the rich, buttery flavor that complements the matcha beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as the key to soft Matcha Crinkle Cookies is maintaining a light texture. You’ll know it’s ready when no visible dry flour remains.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for helping the cookies maintain their shape and create those beautiful crinkles when baked. While waiting, preheat your oven for the next step.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly, ensuring a delightful texture for your Matcha Crinkle Cookies.
Step 6: Prepare Sugars
Set out two shallow dishes—one with granulated sugar and another filled with powdered sugar. These sugars will give your cookies a crunchy outer layer and the classic crinkle appearance. Having everything ready now will streamline your cookie rolling process.
Step 7: Scoop Dough
Once the dough has chilled, use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar first for crunch, then in the powdered sugar for that signature snowy coat. Be sure the dough is well coated for the best visual and textural appeal.
Step 8: Bake
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, allowing 1-2 inches of space between each one. Bake the Matcha Crinkle Cookies in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes, or until they appear puffed and cracked. The edges should look set while the centers remain slightly soft.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This waiting period allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Matcha Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore unique twists that will take your matcha crinkle cookies to the next level!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to create a cookie that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing texture.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap out matcha powder for cocoa powder for a delightful chocolate version. These cookies will be rich and indulgent, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or almonds to the dough for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the soft bite of the cookies.
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White Chocolate Chips: Mix in ½ cup of white chocolate chips to introduce sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with matcha's earthiness.
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Minty Fresh: Infuse your dough with a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist that will elevate your cookie game.
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Spicy Kick: Include a dash of ground ginger or cinnamon for a warm spice that enhances the matcha flavor, making the cookies feel even cozier.
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Citrus Zing: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright citrus note that balances the rich matcha taste with invigorating freshness.
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Creamy Coconut: Toss in a little unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that adds both flavor and chewy texture.
These variations and substitutions have the potential to spark new flavors and textures, ensuring your cookie baking is always an adventure! Enjoy customizing your batch!
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture while keeping them fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, store in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed container. Allow to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container separated by parchment paper for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm Matcha Crinkle Cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their soft and delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Matcha Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps of the recipe. After mixing, simply cover the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. If you want to prep even further ahead, the dough can be frozen for up to one month; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking. This helps maintain the cookie's wonderful texture and flavor. When you're ready to enjoy these delightful treats, simply scoop and roll the dough in sugars, then bake as directed. You'll have fresh, irresistible Matcha Crinkle Cookies with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Chill the Dough: Ensuring the dough is chilled for at least an hour is vital; this helps achieve that beautiful crinkle effect when baking.
Watch the Bake Time: If you find that cookies seem undercooked after the suggested time, bake them an additional 1-2 minutes—the perfect Matcha Crinkle Cookies should remain slightly soft in the center.
Room Temperature Eggs: Always use large eggs at room temperature to blend seamlessly into the cookie dough for a moist and tender result.
Accurate Measurements: Using a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and sugar prevents mismeasurement, which can lead to tough or overly dry cookies.
Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can deflate the dough, affecting both texture and the adorable crinkle finish.
Experiment with Matcha: If you're new to matcha, start with culinary-grade matcha for baking. Once you fall in love, you might explore different grades for varied flavor profiles!
What to Serve with Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Indulging in these vibrant, soft cookies invites a moment of joy, making it essential to think about delightful pairings that will enhance your experience.
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Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea accentuate the matcha flavor, creating a serene moment akin to a Japanese tea ceremony. This soothing beverage adds depth to your cookie enjoyment.
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Milk: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of milk balances the cookie's earthy flavor, making each bite more delightful. Whether it's cold or warm, milk is a comforting companion.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cookies, creating a delightful balance of temperatures and flavors. A perfect summer treat!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a fresh, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the cookies. Their burst of flavor brightens every bite.
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Matcha Latte: For the ultimate matcha lover, pairing these cookies with a creamy matcha latte intensifies the experience and serves as a cozy pick-me-up.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache can elevate the indulgence, offering a sweet, luxurious layer to the matcha's unique flavor profile.
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Honey Citrus Dressing: A light honey citrus dressing drizzled over the cookies not only adds a hint of brightness but also complements the earthy undertones of matcha with a refreshing twist.
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Almond Milk: For a nutty twist, almond milk enhances the cookie’s flavors while offering a delightful creaminess that perfectly rounds out your treat experience.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: A light layer of cream cheese frosting can add a tangy twist that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, earthy notes of the cookies, turning each one into a mini dessert sensation.
Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best matcha powder for my cookies?
Absolutely! For baking delicious Matcha Crinkle Cookies, it's best to use culinary-grade matcha, as it offers a vibrant color and balanced flavor without breaking the bank. If you're feeling indulgent, ceremonial-grade matcha elevates the taste and presentation, but its higher cost might not be necessary for casual baking. Look for matcha that’s bright green, as this indicates freshness and quality.
How should I store my Matcha Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them warm to room temperature before biting in for that delightful chewy texture!
Can I freeze Matcha Crinkle Cookie dough?
Yes, it’s a great idea to freeze your cookie dough! After you prepare and chill the dough, scoop it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer the dough balls into an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and roll them in sugar before baking as directed—fresh cookies at your fingertips!
What should I do if my matcha cookies don't have the right flavor?
If your cookies taste bland or lack that distinct matcha flavor, it could be due to the quality of the matcha powder you used. Make sure to choose a high-quality matcha; sometimes, adding a little more (up to an extra tablespoon) can enhance the taste. Just be careful not to overdo it, as matcha can become bitter in large amounts. Also, blending the matcha well with the sugar and eggs ensures an even flavor throughout.
Will my Matcha Crinkle Cookies turn brown?
A light brown color can occur during baking if your oven is too hot or if the cookies are overbaked. Stick to the recommended temperature of 325°F (160°C) and keep an eye on the baking time. If they start browning excessively before they are fully baked, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet to set; the color will even out a bit.
Are Matcha Crinkle Cookies safe for my pets?
No, it’s important to avoid sharing any baked goods containing matcha with pets, especially dogs and cats. Matcha, like other forms of tea, contains caffeine, which is harmful to pets in any amount. Enjoy these cookies as a delightful treat for yourself and keep them out of reach from your furry friends!
Irresistibly Chewy Matcha Crinkle Cookies to Savor
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- cookie scoop
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- refrigerator
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder (ceremonial-grade) Use culinary-grade matcha for baking if ceremonial is not available.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature) Allow eggs to warm improves blending.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Crinkle Cookies
- Sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl.
- In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened for about 3 minutes, then incorporate ½ cup of melted, unsalted butter.
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined.
- Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set out two shallow dishes—one with granulated sugar and another with powdered sugar.
- Once the dough has chilled, use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough and roll in granulated sugar then powdered sugar.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, allowing 1-2 inches of space between each one and bake for about 11 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
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