There’s something truly enchanting about the first sip of a matcha latte—the rich, earthy flavor combined with a touch of creamy sweetness. Inspired by this delightful beverage, I created my Matcha Latte Cookies, a treat that perfectly captures that essence in a soft, chewy bite. Picture vibrant green cookies topped with a luscious mascarpone cream, ready to elevate any gathering or cozy afternoon snack.
I came up with this recipe one rainy afternoon when I craved something special, steering clear of boring fast food options. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these thick cookies that not only look stunning but taste divine. Whether you’re hoping to impress guests or simply indulge on your own, these cookies are the answer. Let’s dive into baking this mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite!
Why will you adore Matcha Latte Cookies?
Irresistible Visuals: The vibrant green hue is a showstopper at any gathering, making these cookies perfect for special occasions or a chic afternoon treat.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can create a delicious dessert without any complicated steps—ideal for the busy home cook!
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of earthy matcha and creamy mascarpone creates a delightful taste experience that’s far from ordinary.
Texture Bliss: Thick, chewy cookies with a soft center paired with a light, fluffy topping for the ultimate mouthfeel.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a tea party with friends, these cookies are sure to leave everyone raving and coming back for seconds!
Matcha Latte Cookies Ingredients
• To make your baking experience seamless, here’s everything you need!
For the Cookies
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture to cookies; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds structure; replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor beautifully; opt for pure extract for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie base; no direct substitutes recommended without affecting the texture.
- Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder for perfect puffiness.
- Matcha Powder – Imparts the unique flavor and vibrant green color; use ceremonial grade for optimal taste.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
For the Mascarpone Cream
- Mascarpone – Creates a decadent topping; versatile for various desserts, with cream cheese as a suitable substitute.
- Confectioners Sugar – Sweetens and adds a creamy consistency to the mascarpone cookie topping.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and allows the mascarpone to whip to stiff peaks.
- Honey or Agave – Provides sweetening to the mascarpone; a great vegan option compared to refined sugar.
Now you’re all set to create enchanting Matcha Latte Cookies that are sure to impress!
How to Make Matcha Latte Cookies
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Melt Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, let it cool in the fridge until it reaches room temperature to keep the cookies tender.
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Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is beautifully integrated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, matcha powder, and salt. Gradually combine this mixture with the wet ingredients until just mixed, ensuring not to overwork the dough.
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Shape Dough: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough, rolling each piece into a ball and slightly flattening it. Place the shaped cookies on a lined baking tray and chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes.
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Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Cool on the tray for 3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make Mascarpone Cream: While the cookies are cooling, whip together the mascarpone, vanilla extract, confectioners sugar, and heavy cream until stiff peaks form, creating a dreamy creamy topping.
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Assemble and Decorate: Once the cookies are thoroughly cooled, use a piping bag to pipe the mascarpone cream onto each cookie. Finish with a delightful dusting of matcha powder for that extra flair!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a lovely texture contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Matcha Latte Cookies
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Quality Matcha Matters: Use high-quality ceremonial grade matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant color; lower grades can result in a bitter taste.
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Perfect Dough Texture: Avoid overmixing the cookie dough. Mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies; allow ingredients to blend naturally.
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Butter Temperature: Ensure the melted butter cools to room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve the right texture and prevents cookie spread.
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Chill Before Baking: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps the cookies retain their shape and improves texture while baking.
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Cool Cookies Properly: Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to avoid breaking; patience results in perfectly shaped treats.
What to Serve with Matcha Latte Cookies?
Experience the joy of creating a delightful spread that complements these vibrant cookies, enhancing your sweet treat experience.
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Steaming Matcha Latte: The ultimate pairing! Enjoy the smooth, earthy flavors of matcha that beautifully mirror the cookies’ taste, creating a comforting, café-inspired moment.
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Iced Coffee: A chilled coffee drink brings a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ warmth, offering a perfect balance of flavors while keeping your afternoon light and invigorating.
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Coconut Macaroon Dip: For a tropical twist, serve with a sweet coconut dip. The moisture and sweetness harmonize perfectly with the chewy texture of the cookies.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like strawberries and raspberries provide a burst of flavor and a fresh, tart contrast that elevates every bite of matcha goodness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top of the cookies before serving. The richness cuts through the sweetness, adding a decadent touch to your treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream can transform your dessert into an indulgent sundae, complementing the flavors and textures in a truly delicious way.
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Lavender Lemonade: This floral, refreshing drink is not only delightful to sip but adds an elegant touch when enjoyed alongside your cookies, bringing springtime vibes to your gathering.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty biscotti paired alongside your cookies for added texture makes an intriguing duo, perfect for dunking and enhancing your dessert experience.
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Latte Cookies
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; this keeps them soft and chewy.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week; just ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 30 days; wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie experience, reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Matcha Latte Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the ingredients and chill the shaped cookies in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, if you’re planning further ahead, the dough can be frozen for up to 30 days; just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. To maintain quality, make sure the dough is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, bake the cookies as instructed, then whip up the mascarpone cream just before enjoying, ensuring that each cookie is fresh and just as delicious!
Matcha Latte Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity with these delightful variations, making your matcha experience even more special!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with whipped coconut cream for a light and luscious topping. It provides a tropical twist that complements the matcha beautifully.
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Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water). It binds the ingredients perfectly while keeping everything plant-based.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the mascarpone cream for an extra layer of brightness that elevates the flavor profile.
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Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy spice that pairs wonderfully with the earthy matcha.
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Chocolate Twist: Add white or dark chocolate chips into the cookie dough for a decadent, sweet contrast to the matcha flavor.
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Matcha Swirl: For a visual treat, blend some baking matcha into the mascarpone cream, creating an elegant marbled effect that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
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Maple Flavor: Substitute granulated sugar in the mascarpone cream with maple syrup for a subtle twist of flavor that brings a delightful sweetness and earthiness.
Each of these variations offers an opportunity to make these cookies uniquely yours, so don’t hesitate to play around and find your perfect matcha cookie creation!
Matcha Latte Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose matcha powder for my cookies?
Absolutely! You want to look for ceremonial grade matcha when making your Matcha Latte Cookies. This type is finely ground, vibrant green, and boasts a rich, earthy flavor that elevates your cookies. Avoid lower grades, as they can taste bitter and dull the delightful experience you’re aiming for!
How should I store my Matcha Latte Cookies for optimal freshness?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture. If you prefer to keep them for a bit longer, move them to the refrigerator, where they will last up to 1 week. Just make sure to store them properly to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze my Matcha Latte Cookies for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Matcha Latte Cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, or pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
What if my cookie dough seems too sticky or dry?
If the dough is sticky, it may need a little chilling; a quick 15 minutes in the fridge can help. If it’s too dry and crumbly, try adding a tiny splash of milk or water, a teaspoon at a time, to reach the right consistency. The dough should come together nicely but still be manageable to scoop and shape.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) for a vegan option. Additionally, using coconut oil instead of butter will make these cookies dairy-free. And for allergies, ensure you’re using gluten-free flour based on your preference if gluten is a concern.
How can I enhance the flavor of my mascarpone cream?
If you’d like to mix things up, try adding a teaspoon of almond or citrus extract to your mascarpone cream for an exciting twist. You could also fold in finely chopped, fresh herbs, like mint for a refreshing flavor—just be sure to adjust the sweetness with extra confectioners sugar to balance it out!
Mouthwatering Matcha Latte Cookies with Creamy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat and let it cool in the fridge until it reaches room temperature.
- Whisk together the cooled butter and granulated sugar until well combined, then add the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, matcha powder, and salt. Gradually combine this mixture with the wet ingredients.
- Scoop out the dough, roll into balls, flatten slightly, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C) and bake the cookies for about 10-11 minutes until lightly golden. Cool for 3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Whip together the mascarpone, vanilla extract, confectioners sugar, and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Once cookies are cooled, pipe the mascarpone cream onto each cookie and dust with matcha powder.