Recipe - Matcha Shortbread Cookies: A Delightful Fusion of Tradition and Indulgence

Matcha, the finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has long been revered in Japanese tea ceremonies for its rich umami flavor and numerous health benefits. When combined with the buttery, crumbly texture of classic shortbread cookies, matcha transforms an already beloved treat into a sophisticated and slightly earthy indulgence.

These matcha shortbread cookies are perfect for an afternoon tea, a holiday gift, or simply as a way to enjoy the delightful blend of matcha’s vegetal sweetness with the melt-in-your-mouth richness of shortbread. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of shortbread, why matcha is a perfect ingredient for baking, and provide you with a foolproof recipe to make these delectable cookies at home.

The History of Shortbread

Shortbread originated in Scotland and dates back to the 12th century. Originally, it was made with leftover bread dough that was dried and hardened into a biscuit-like consistency. Over time, the yeast was removed, and the modern version of shortbread—consisting of just butter, sugar, and flour—was born. The high butter content gives shortbread its signature crumbly texture and rich flavor.

Today, shortbread is enjoyed worldwide, often customized with different flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or citrus. The incorporation of matcha into this timeless treat brings a unique twist by adding a subtle bitterness that perfectly balances the cookie’s natural sweetness.

Why Bake with Matcha?

Matcha’s delicate balance of sweetness and umami makes it an excellent ingredient for desserts. Beyond its distinct flavor, matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which can help support overall health. Additionally, matcha is naturally vibrant green, giving these cookies a beautiful hue without the need for artificial coloring.

When choosing matcha for baking, opt for culinary-grade matcha rather than ceremonial-grade. Culinary matcha is slightly more robust in flavor, making it ideal for baking, and it is also more affordable than its ceremonial counterpart.

Matcha Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons (10g) matcha powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Optional: 1/4 cup (50g) powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls

• Hand or stand mixer

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Fine mesh sifter

• Parchment paper

• Baking sheet

• Rolling pin

• Cookie cutters (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the vanilla extract and mix to incorporate.

3. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, and salt to remove any lumps and ensure an even distribution.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold its shape when pressed.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a sheet of parchment paper and shape it into a disk.

2. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps develop the flavors and makes it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

3. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.

4. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.

2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the cookies with powdered sugar once they have cooled completely.

2. Serve with a cup of green tea or your favorite warm beverage and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Matcha Shortbread Cookies

• Use High-Quality Matcha: The quality of your matcha will significantly impact the flavor and color of your cookies. Look for fresh, vibrant green culinary matcha.

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dough comes together.

• Chill the Dough: This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and enhances their texture.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase the sugar slightly or drizzle the finished cookies with white chocolate.

Storage and Variations

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: Freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

Variations:

• Chocolate-Dipped Matcha Shortbread: After cooling, dip half of each cookie into melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent finish.

• Matcha-Almond Shortbread: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds to the dough for added texture and nuttiness.

• Citrus-Infused Matcha Shortbread: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrus contrast.

Matcha shortbread cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the delicate flavors of matcha combined with the rich, buttery goodness of classic shortbread. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to baking with matcha, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Perfect for tea time, gifting, or simply indulging in a sophisticated treat, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of matcha shortbread cookies bring joy to your kitchen!