Pistachio Matcha Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures—crisp edges, buttery centers, and a beautiful natural green hue from high-quality matcha. These slice-and-bake cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday cookie trays, or anytime you want to serve something a little more elegant and unique.
The combination of nutty pistachios and earthy matcha powder creates a flavor that’s both subtle and complex. Plus, the sparkling sugar on the outside adds just the right touch of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re a matcha lover or simply looking to elevate your cookie game, these cookies are a must-try.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of these delicious cookies:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (90g) confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons (10g) ceremonial-grade matcha powder
- ½ cup (70g) finely chopped pistachios
- ½ cup (150g) white sparkling sugar (for rolling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Beat them together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Egg and Almond Extract
Crack in the egg and pour in the almond extract. Beat until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture might look slightly curdled at this point—don’t worry, it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and matcha powder to prevent any clumps. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a dough begins to form.
Step 4: Add Chopped Pistachios
Add in the finely chopped pistachios and mix just until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Shape and Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap. To get a smoother, more uniform shape, you can place the wrapped dough logs inside a paper towel roll or use a bench scraper to press the sides evenly. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 7: Roll in Sugar and Slice
Take the chilled dough logs out of the fridge. Roll each log in sparkling sugar to coat the outside evenly. This will add a lovely crunch and shine to the cookies. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the sliced cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Halfway through baking, rotate the pans and switch their positions (top rack to bottom and vice versa) to ensure even baking.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, the cookies will have a tender, buttery texture with crisp edges and a subtle matcha flavor complemented by the pistachios.
Tips for Success
- Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the brightest green color and smoothest flavor.
- If the dough feels too soft while shaping, chill it for another 30 minutes before slicing.
- For the cleanest slices, use a very sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Dough logs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months—just thaw slightly before slicing and baking.
Storage
Store your Pistachio Matcha Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage—just place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Perfect For…
These cookies are perfect for:
- Elegant tea parties
- Holiday cookie boxes
- Matcha enthusiasts
- A refined twist on everyday treats