Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy Matcha Cookies with Brown Butter combine the earthy, slightly bitter notes of matcha green tea with the nutty richness of browned butter for a uniquely flavorful treat. With a chewy center and crisp edges, they’re perfect for matcha lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike. The vivid green hue and complex taste make them stand out on any dessert table.

ingredients

Easy Matcha Cookies Recipe (with Brown Butter)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
unsalted butter (to be browned)
granulated sugar
brown sugar
matcha powder (culinary grade)
baking soda
salt
egg
vanilla extract

directions

Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then let it cool slightly.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, mix the browned butter with granulated and brown sugars until combined.

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Cover and chill the dough for 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.

Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

Add white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the matcha.
Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty accent.
Roll dough balls in sugar before baking for a sparkly finish.

storage/reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
They can be refrigerated for up to 10 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
To refresh, microwave a cookie for 5–8 seconds or warm in a low oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

What does matcha taste like in cookies?
Matcha adds a slightly grassy, earthy flavor with a touch of bitterness that balances sweetness beautifully.

Can I use ceremonial grade matcha?
You can, but it’s more expensive and subtle in flavor—culinary grade is ideal for baking.

Why brown the butter?
Brown butter enhances the cookie with a nutty, caramelized flavor that complements the matcha.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.

Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling helps control spreading and intensifies flavor.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Overmixing or not chilling the dough can cause them to spread too much.

Can I use matcha latte mix instead of pure matcha powder?
It’s not recommended—latte mixes contain sugar and milk powder, which can throw off the recipe.

Are these cookies caffeinated?
Yes, matcha contains caffeine, though less than coffee.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

What pairs well with matcha cookies?
They go great with green tea, milk, or a vanilla latte.

Conclusion

These Easy Matcha Cookies with Brown Butter are a delicious fusion of bold matcha flavor and rich, nutty undertones. Perfect for tea time, gifting, or indulging in something a little different, they offer a delightful twist on classic cookies. Make a batch and enjoy the balance of earthy and sweet in every vibrant green bite.