Name: Strawberry Matcha Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 1 h 7 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 120 g unsalted butter; 150 g granulated sugar; 50 g soft light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 230 g plain flour; 2 teaspoons matcha powder, sieved; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 100 g white chocolate, chopped; 100 g unsalted butter, softened; 100 g icing sugar, sieved; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons freeze dried strawberry powder; 200 g full fat cream cheese

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If you’re craving a treat that perfectly balances earthy green tea flavors with sweet, fruity strawberry notes, these Strawberry Matcha Cookies are exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie infused with vibrant matcha powder and studded with creamy white chocolate chunks, then topping it all off with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a bakery-worthy delight that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Get ready to fall in love with Strawberry Matcha Cookies — a unique fusion treat that’s sure to become a fast favorite in your baking repertoire.

Strawberry Matcha Cookies - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Matcha Cookies recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings its own magic to the final product, from the silken texture of the butter to the vibrant hue of matcha powder. Let’s dive in and see what makes this cookie recipe shine!

Unsalted butter: Melting the butter first ensures a soft, tender cookie texture you’ll adore.
Granulated sugar and light brown sugar: The combination balances sweetness with a subtle hint of molasses for depth.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
Egg: Acts as the perfect binder, holding everything together beautifully.
Plain flour: Provides structure while allowing other flavors to sparkle through.
Matcha powder (sieved): This earthy green tea powder brings a fresh, vibrant tea flavor and a stunning green color.
Salt: Balances sweetness and boosts the flavors.
Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the cookies a lovely rise without being cakey.
White chocolate (chopped): Sweet bursts of creaminess are hidden inside every bite.
Freeze dried strawberry powder: Used in the frosting, it delivers intense strawberry flavor and a gorgeous pink tint.
Icing sugar: Keeps the frosting silky smooth and sweet.
Full fat cream cheese: Adds tangy richness, making the frosting irresistibly creamy.

How to Make Strawberry Matcha Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by melting the unsalted butter to give your dough a soft base. Pour it into a large bowl, then whisk in both sugars and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. This sweetness and vanilla foundation creates a luscious backdrop for the matcha’s unique flavor. Next, add the egg and whisk it in completely, which will help bind the dough together.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, matcha powder, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Sifting is crucial here—it keeps your matcha powder lump-free and ensures even blending for that perfect green color throughout the cookie.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently but thoroughly. Then, toss in the chopped white chocolate, evenly distributing those sweet, creamy gems throughout the dough. This mixture is thick but easy to work with, full of flavors that promise a memorable bite.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into balls of about 90 grams each and place them on a tray. Pop these into the freezer for 30 minutes. This step solidifies the dough, helping your cookies hold their shape and develop a tender crumb when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C about 10 minutes before baking. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the cookie dough balls on the tray, making sure to leave enough space between each because they will spread. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the edges are set and the tops show that classic crackle but still look soft in the center.

Step 6: Shape and Cool

While the cookies are still warm, use a cookie cutter or a small bowl to gently press them into perfect rounds. This little detail takes them from homemade to bakery-quality in appearance. Let them cool completely on the tray before moving on to the frosting.

Step 7: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened butter, icing sugar, vanilla, and freeze dried strawberry powder for five minutes until the frosting is fluffy and beautifully pink. Add the cream cheese and continue beating until smooth and luscious. This delightful topping is the final note that makes these Strawberry Matcha Cookies truly unforgettable.

Step 8: Frost and Finish

Once your cookies have fully cooled, either pipe or spoon the strawberry cream cheese frosting on top. For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a little more freeze dried strawberry powder on each cookie. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your masterpiece!

How to Serve Strawberry Matcha Cookies

Garnishes

Adding a garnish to your Strawberry Matcha Cookies can instantly elevate their presentation. Try topping each cookie with a small mint leaf or a delicate edible flower to complement that vivid green and pink color palette. A dusting of powdered sugar can add a snowy touch, while a few white chocolate shavings offer a hint of extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of green tea to enhance the matcha notes or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For a special occasion, serve alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. The balance of richness and freshness makes these treats versatile company.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming tea party or a casual gathering, consider arranging the cookies on a tiered cake stand with fresh strawberries around. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies together with a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting to create delightful little cookie cakes. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine also makes a thoughtful homemade gift your friends will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Strawberry Matcha Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cookies soft and the frosting fresh. Avoid refrigerating to prevent the frosting from becoming too firm or the cookies drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookie dough balls or the fully baked cookies (without frosting) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature before adding the frosting. If you want to freeze already frosted cookies, flash freeze them first, then wrap individually to keep the topping intact.

Reheating

For warm, fresh-from-the-oven goodness, gently reheat the cookies in a low oven (around 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Be cautious not to melt the frosting too much when applying heat. Alternatively, enjoy them at room temperature to savor the full flavor and soft texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute matcha powder with green tea powder?

Matcha powder is finely ground green tea leaves that provide a stronger and more vibrant flavor than regular green tea powder. While you can try substituting, the flavor and color impact might be less intense, so adjusting the quantity and expecting a milder taste is key.

How do I avoid my cookies spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading. Also, make sure not to over-melt your butter. Keeping the butter melted but slightly cooled before mixing is the best approach to maintain cookie shape while baking.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried powder in the frosting?

Fresh strawberries contain water that can thin out the frosting, making it less stable. Freeze-dried strawberry powder is concentrated and dry, perfect for adding flavor without compromising texture. If you want to experiment, puree fresh strawberries and reduce the sugar slightly, but expect a softer frosting.

Are Strawberry Matcha Cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses plain flour which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking, but be prepared for slight differences in texture.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To veganize the Strawberry Matcha Cookies, replace butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg, and ensure white chocolate and cream cheese substitutes are vegan-friendly. The final texture might vary, but the flavor can still be fantastic!

Final Thoughts

Baking Strawberry Matcha Cookies is a joyful adventure that brings together unique flavors and simple ingredients for an extraordinary experience. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these cookies deliver a beautiful balance of sweetness, earthiness, and creamy indulgence that brightens any day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Strawberry Matcha Cookies will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!