There’s something truly special about the union of flavors in soft Strawberry Matcha Cookies—it’s like a burst of spring in every bite! Imagine the sweet notes of ripe strawberries harmonizing with the earthy richness of matcha, beautifully draped under a tangy cream cheese frosting. When I first took a batch out of the oven, the inviting aroma wafting through my kitchen was impossible to resist, and watching my family indulge in these cookies was sheer joy.
This delightful recipe is the perfect antidote for anyone tired of the same old treats; it’s an easy-to-follow guide that leads you through the simple process of creating mouthwatering cookies that are sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these Strawberry Matcha Cookies are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with their vibrant colors. Get ready to elevate your baking game and indulge in a snack that feels as good as it tastes!
Why love Strawberry Matcha Cookies?
Delightful fusion: These cookies beautifully blend the refreshing taste of strawberries with the earthy notes of matcha, creating a unique flavor combination.
Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up a batch quickly and effortlessly.
Visually stunning: The vibrant green and soft pink colors make these cookies a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests.
Versatile indulgence: They can be enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a sweet treat for any occasion.
Crowd favorite: The rich cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies to a new level, ensuring everyone will be reaching for more!
Strawberry Matcha Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (120 g) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it is softened for easier mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (150 g) – Provides sweetness to balance flavors; can substitute with coconut sugar for a caramel-like taste.
• Soft Light Brown Sugar (50 g) – Enhances moisture and adds a hint of molasses flavor; brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar, but texture will vary.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Introduces warmth and depth of flavor; use pure vanilla extract for best results.
• Large Egg (1) – Binds ingredients together and helps cookies rise; a flax egg can be used for a vegan version.
• Plain Flour (230 g) – Forms the base structure of the cookies; replace with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Matcha Powder (2 teaspoons, sieved) – Provides earthy flavor and vibrant color; high-quality culinary-grade matcha recommended for the best taste.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; essential for overall flavor depth.
• Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Leavening agent that aids in cookie rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Baking Soda (1/4 teaspoon) – Helps cookies spread and adds to the chewy texture.
• Chopped White Chocolate (100 g) – Adds richness and sweetness; dark chocolate can be a good substitute for a less sweet flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese (200 g, full-fat) – Creates a creamy, tangy topping that pairs perfectly with the cookies; for a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese.
• Icing Sugar (100 g, sieved) – Sweetens the frosting to balance tanginess; sifting ensures a smooth texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle sweetness to the frosting; pure extract works best.
• Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the fruity flavor and adds a beautiful pink color; alternatively, use fresh strawberry puree for a different texture.
Enjoy these Strawberry Matcha Cookies that will surely steal the spotlight at any gathering!
How to Make Strawberry Matcha Cookies
-
Prepare Cookie Dough: In a bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined, creating a rich base for your cookies.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the plain flour, matcha powder, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well blended. This mixture provides the essential structure and flavor to your cookies.
-
Mix Together: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. This step is crucial; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies. Finally, fold in the chopped white chocolate for extra sweetness.
-
Chill Dough: Form the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time prevents excessive spreading while baking, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies.
-
Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chilled dough for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are slightly golden. The centers should still appear soft for that gooey texture.
-
Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on a tray until set before handling. They will be soft when hot, so patience is key for perfect cookies!
-
Prepare Frosting: In a separate bowl, whip together the cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and freeze-dried strawberry powder until creamy and smooth. This frosting adds a delightful tangy flavor to your cookies.
-
Frost Cookies: Once cookies are completely cooled, generously frost them with your cream cheese mixture. Use dollops or a piping bag for a decorative touch that makes these cookies even more irresistible!
Optional: Drizzle some melted white chocolate over the frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Matcha Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious cookies and customize them to suit your taste!
-
Gluten-Free: Replace plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delightful texture. Your gluten-sensitive friends will thank you!
-
Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
-
Flavor Twist: Swap matcha for 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version that’s equally irresistible. Indulge in a new flavor adventure!
-
Fruit Medley: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for added texture and flavor. This little twist will surprise your taste buds.
-
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch in every bite. The contrast in texture will make things exciting!
-
Frosting Variation: Make a citrus frosting by adding lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing zing. Just imagine that burst of flavor!
-
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a hint of heat, balancing with the sweetness of strawberries and cream cheese frosting. Get ready for a spicy surprise!
-
No Frosting: For a simpler treat, skip the frosting altogether or drizzle with melted chocolate instead. Perfect for those who prefer a less sugary bite!
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy tailoring these Strawberry Matcha Cookies to your palate!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Matcha Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just allow the cookies to reach room temperature before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container or tightly wrapped. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the cookies in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Matcha Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Matcha Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply form the dough into balls and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just pop them straight into a preheated oven. Frosting can also be made a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you’ll have delicious Strawberry Matcha Cookies ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Strawberry Matcha Cookies?
A delightful spread of flavors awaits to elevate your cookie experience!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, balancing sweetness with tangy notes.
- Iced Matcha Latte: This delicious, creamy drink highlights the matcha flavor, creating a harmonious pairing that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream lends a delightful texture, enhancing the cookie’s softness while adding a sweet touch.
- Green Tea: This classic beverage complements the earthy tones of matcha, making each bite feel like a luxurious treat.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These decadent bites offer a luscious chocolate contrast, celebrating the strawberry flavor found within the cookies.
- Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of zesty sorbet provides a crisp, cool refreshment that cuts through the richness of the cookies, keeping your palate lively.
No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Strawberry Matcha Cookies will undoubtedly be a highlight of your dessert table!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Matcha Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. Skipping this step can lead to overly flat cookies!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda; old leavening agents can result in dense cookies that don’t rise properly.
- Quality Matcha Matters: Invest in high-quality culinary-grade matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color in your Strawberry Matcha Cookies.
- Keep It Gentle: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, fold gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can make the cookies tough.
- Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool completely on the tray before moving them, as they will be too soft to handle right away.
Strawberry Matcha Cookies Recipe FAQs
What are the best strawberries to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, use ripe, fresh strawberries that are bright red and firm. Avoid strawberries with dark spots or signs of spoilage; they should be fragrant and juicy.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Matcha Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer extended freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them warm up to room temperature before enjoying again!
Can I freeze Strawberry Matcha Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months! Simply place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. If baking the cookie dough, you can freeze the dough balls directly and bake from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What could I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you notice your cookies spreading excessively, it could be due to warm dough. Ensure to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking; this step is key to achieving the perfect texture! If they still spread, check the freshness of your baking soda and powder, as using old leavening agents might affect the rise.
Are Strawberry Matcha Cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
These cookies can be adapted! If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free blend. For a vegan option, opt for a flax egg instead of a large egg and reduce the sugar in the frosting. Note, however, that the cream cheese frosting isn’t dairy-free, but you could use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
How long do the cookies keep their texture after baking?
The cookies are best enjoyed fresh for that soft and chewy experience. However, if stored correctly, they will maintain their texture for up to 5 days at room temperature or 1 week in the fridge. Always let them cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container!
Irresistibly Soft Strawberry Matcha Cookies with Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the plain flour, matcha powder, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well blended.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped white chocolate.
- Form the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chilled dough for about 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a tray until set before handling.
- In a separate bowl, whip together the cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and freeze-dried strawberry powder until creamy and smooth.
- Once cookies are completely cooled, generously frost them with your cream cheese mixture.