Matcha Green Tea Shortbread Cookies – Elegant Adult Treats Perfect for Morning Tea

These delicate matcha-flavored shortbread cookies offer a subtle, refined bitterness balanced by gentle sweetness — ideal for adults seeking a sophisticated morning or afternoon snack. Enjoy them alongside a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk for a peaceful start to your day.

🕒 Prep & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ chilling time)
Bake Time: 15 minutes
Yield: About 11 cookies

📝 Ingredients

140 g all-purpose flour
70 g unsalted butter, softened
40 g granulated sugar
2 egg yolks
1 tbsp matcha powder (green tea powder)
Extra sugar for decorating

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
- In a food processor or using a hand mixer, blend the sugar and matcha powder together until well combined.
- Add the softened butter and pulse or mix until the mixture resembles a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the flour and mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing after each addition until fully incorporated.
Chill the Dough:
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Pro tip: For easier handling, roll the dough between two sheets of parchment or inside a plastic bag before chilling. This avoids stickiness and helps with clean cookie shapes.
Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1 cm thickness on a floured surface or between parchment sheets.
- Quickly cut out your desired shapes (e.g., hearts about 7 cm wide). Work swiftly to prevent the dough from warming up and becoming difficult to handle.
Decorate and Bake:
- Lightly coat the cookies by rolling or sprinkling them with sugar for a subtle sparkle and texture.
- Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spaced evenly.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain their delicate crispness.

💡 Tips & Variations

If you want a milder matcha flavor, reduce the powder to 2 teaspoons and balance with an additional tablespoon of flour.
For a richer cookie, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract with the egg yolks.
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of jasmine or green tea to complement the matcha aroma.
Experiment with different shapes and sizes to suit festive occasions or gifts.

🧾 Final Thoughts

Matcha shortbread cookies are a sophisticated twist on a classic treat, delivering a perfect balance of earthiness and sweetness. Their tender crumb and delicate green hue make them both visually appealing and delicious — ideal for anyone looking to elevate their cookie game beyond the usual. Enjoy with your favorite tea and savor each elegant bite.