Matcha Jasmine Cookies

Have you ever wondered what would happen if the earthy richness of green tea met the delicate fragrance of jasmine in a single, buttery bite? It might sound like an unusual combination, but that’s exactly what makes these Matcha Jasmine Cookies so special. They’re not your everyday cookie—these are elegant, melt-in-your-mouth treats with a gentle floral aroma and a vibrant green hue that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

If you’ve only ever had plain sugar cookies, prepare to be surprised. This recipe brings together the comforting familiarity of a homemade cookie with the sophistication of matcha and jasmine tea. The result is a treat that feels both comforting and refined, perfect for tea time, gifting, or simply enjoying on a cozy afternoon.

Overview

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Why this recipe is special:

• Combines the unique flavors of matcha (green tea powder) and jasmine tea for a balanced, aromatic treat.
• Offers a visually stunning green color without artificial dyes.
• Delivers a soft, slightly crisp texture that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.

Time requirement:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended for best shape)
• Bake time: 12–14 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour

Difficulty level: Easy – Even beginner bakers can master these cookies with a few simple steps.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your Matcha Jasmine Cookies:

• All-purpose flour – 1 ½ cups (190g)
• Unsalted butter – ½ cup (113g), softened
• Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100g)
• Brown sugar – ¼ cup (50g) for added depth and softness
• Egg yolk – 1 large (for richness)
• Matcha powder – 1 ½ tablespoons (culinary grade for baking)
• Jasmine tea leaves – 1 tablespoon, finely ground
• Baking powder – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Substitutions & Variations

• Flour alternative: You can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Butter alternative: Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar swap: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more caramel-like sweetness.
• Matcha level: If you like a stronger green tea flavor, add an extra teaspoon of matcha powder.
• Jasmine infusion: Instead of tea leaves, you can steep 2 tablespoons of jasmine tea in melted butter, strain, and chill before using for a subtle floral note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Jasmine Tea

• If using loose leaf jasmine tea, grind it into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. The finer it is, the smoother your cookies will be.
• If you only have jasmine tea bags, simply cut them open and grind the contents.

Tip: Avoid brewing the tea first—you want the dry, aromatic leaves in your cookie dough.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until pale and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed.

Tip: Proper creaming helps your cookies become light and tender.

3. Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla

• Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This enriches the dough and enhances flavor.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, matcha powder, and ground jasmine tea. Make sure there are no lumps in the matcha.

Tip: Sift the matcha if needed for a smoother texture.

5. Mix Wet and Dry

• Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.

6. Shape the Dough

• Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

7. Slice and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.

Tip: The cookies should stay mostly green—overbaking can dull the vibrant color.

Assembly and Presentation

These cookies don’t need fancy assembly, but a thoughtful presentation can make them extra special:

• Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-kissed look.
• Dip half in white chocolate and sprinkle with extra jasmine tea leaves for an elegant touch.
• Serve with tea—a pot of jasmine green tea or a matcha latte makes a perfect pairing.

Serving tip: Use a white plate or wooden tray to highlight the cookies’ green color.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep dough logs wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days before baking.
• Freezer: Freeze shaped dough slices or whole logs for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, you can warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes to revive their texture.

Recipe Variations

1. Matcha Almond Cookies – Add ½ cup chopped almonds for a nutty crunch.
2. Lemon Jasmine Cookies – Mix 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the dough for a bright citrus note.
3. Matcha Coconut Cookies – Stir in ¼ cup shredded coconut for extra texture.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Matcha Jasmine Cookies – Dip cooled cookies halfway into melted dark chocolate and let set.
5. Extra Floral Blend – Combine jasmine with lavender for a stronger floral profile.

Conclusion

Matcha Jasmine Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a moment of calm in your day. With their earthy, floral aroma and delicate sweetness, they’re the kind of cookie you linger over with a warm cup of tea. The recipe is simple enough for beginners, but the flavors are complex enough to impress any guest.

So go ahead—experiment with the matcha and jasmine ratios, try a variation or two, and make them your own. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are a little bite of serenity.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies without jasmine tea?
Yes! You can simply omit the jasmine tea for a pure matcha cookie, or replace it with another floral tea like chamomile or rose.

Q: How can I make the green color more vibrant?
Use fresh, high-quality matcha powder and avoid overbaking. Sifting the matcha before adding it to the dough also helps.

Q: Are Matcha Jasmine Cookies healthy?
While they’re still a treat, matcha provides antioxidants, and jasmine tea may have calming benefits. However, they do contain sugar and butter, so enjoy them in moderation.

Q: Can I make them vegan?
Yes—use plant-based butter and replace the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water (let it sit for 5 minutes before adding).

Q: Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.