Matcha Sable Cookies

If you’re a fan of the earthy, slightly bitter taste of matcha, then these Matcha Sable Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat! Imagine a cookie that’s crisp, buttery, and has that perfect hit of matcha that gently tingles your taste buds. The best part? These cookies are so easy to make, and the result is just beautiful. They have a delicate green hue that makes them look elegant enough for a tea party, yet they’re simple enough for an afternoon snack. Trust me, you’re going to love the combination of crispy edges and tender centers, all infused with the unique flavor of matcha. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, earthy, and totally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love Matcha Sable Cookies

Buttery and Crisp: These cookies have the perfect texture—crunchy and buttery on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth center. They are the ideal combination of light and indulgent.

Perfectly Balanced Matcha Flavor: The matcha adds a slightly earthy, subtly sweet flavor without being overpowering. If you’re new to matcha, this is a great introduction.

Simple Yet Elegant: The vibrant green color and the simplicity of the sable cookie make these perfect for impressing guests at a tea party or serving at a special event.

Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner baker, this recipe is simple to follow and doesn’t require any special equipment. No mixer needed, just a bowl and your hands.

Versatile: Whether you’re pairing them with tea, coffee, or even enjoying them on their own, these cookies work for any occasion. They’re also an excellent homemade gift!

Ingredients

For the Matcha Sable Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) – The key to making these cookies buttery and crisp. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Gives the cookies a delicate sweetness without being overly sugary.
• 1 large egg yolk – Adds richness to the dough and helps bind everything together.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough, creating a soft and slightly crumbly texture that’s perfect for sable cookies.
• 1 tbsp matcha powder – The star ingredient! It gives the cookies their vibrant green color and distinct flavor.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep your cookies from sticking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or do it by hand with a spatula—just make sure the butter is softened to room temperature.

3. Add the Egg Yolk and Flavorings:
Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well until fully combined and smooth.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, and salt until everything is evenly distributed. The matcha will give your cookies their signature green hue, so make sure to sift it well to avoid any lumps.

5. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and a little crumbly, but it will come together as you work with it.

6. Shape the Dough:
Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the dough. This makes it easier to slice and bake evenly.

7. Slice the Cookies:
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

8. Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They will still be soft when you take them out, but they will firm up as they cool.

9. Cool and Serve:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 120
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 35mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes

How to Serve Matcha Sable Cookies

With Tea: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of green tea or black tea. The subtle matcha flavor complements the tea without overpowering it.

As a Dessert: Serve these at your next dinner party for a delightful, sophisticated treat that’s bound to get compliments.

Gift Them: These cookies make for a thoughtful homemade gift. Pack them up in a cute jar with a ribbon for a charming and edible present.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Want to make these cookies extra special? Serve them with a scoop of vanilla or green tea ice cream for a matcha-inspired dessert.

Additional Tips

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for getting clean, even slices. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Customize the Matcha Flavor: If you prefer a stronger matcha flavor, feel free to add more matcha powder. Just keep in mind that too much might make the cookies overly bitter.

Experiment with Dipping: You can dip the cookies in white chocolate or dark chocolate for a delicious twist. The slight bitterness of the matcha pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of chocolate.

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—just layer them with parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use matcha green tea powder for this recipe?
A1: Yes, matcha powder is the best option for this recipe. Avoid using regular green tea powder, as it may not provide the same texture and vibrant color.

Q2: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for cookies.

Q3: Do I need to use unsalted butter?
A3: Yes, unsalted butter is preferred for baking as it allows you to control the salt level in the dough. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.

Q4: Can I use egg replacer?
A4: Yes, you can use an egg replacer, such as flaxseed or a store-bought egg substitute, for this recipe. It may alter the texture slightly, but the cookies should still turn out delicious.

Q5: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
A5: Sure! Chopped almonds or white chocolate chips would pair wonderfully with the matcha flavor. Just be sure to add them sparingly so they don’t overwhelm the dough.

Q6: How can I get my cookies to hold their shape?
A6: Be sure to chill the dough before slicing, and use a sharp knife to cut the logs into even pieces. This helps maintain a nice shape when baking.

Q7: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A7: Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into logs, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just slice and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.

Q8: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A8: The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. They may still feel soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.

Q9: Can I make these cookies without matcha?
A9: Yes, you can skip the matcha powder and make plain butter sable cookies, which will still be delicious. You can even try adding a different flavor like vanilla or lemon zest.

Q10: How should I store the cookies?
A10: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them later if you have any leftovers.

Conclusion

These Matcha Sable Cookies are the perfect balance of buttery, crisp, and earthy, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a matcha lover or trying it for the first time, these cookies are sure to hit the mark. With their simple ingredients and elegant flavor, they’re perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or gifting to friends and family. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!

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