As the vibrant green of matcha swirls into my bowl, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. There’s something truly special about creating a treat that not only delights the palate but also offers a pop of color that brightens any gathering. These Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies (No Chilling Required) are my go-to whenever I need a quick, yet impressive dessert. Each bite reveals a perfect balance of soft, chewy texture paired with that unmistakable earthiness of matcha, all flamboyantly cloaked in powdered sugar.
What makes these cookies even more alluring is their stunning visual appeal and effortless preparation; no chilling the dough means you can satisfy your sweet tooth in practically no time! Whether you’re looking to impress guests during the holidays or simply indulge in a delightful afternoon snack, these cookies are bound to be a hit. So, grab your whisk and let’s bring a little magic to your kitchen today with these mouthwatering treats!
Why will you love The Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies?
Quick and Easy: With no chilling required, these cookies can be mixed and baked in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat!
Stunning Visuals: The vibrant green matcha color dusted with powdered sugar creates a show-stopping presentation that’s bound to impress at any gathering.
Rich Flavor Profile: The earthy taste of matcha combined with the sweetness of sugar results in a deliciously unique cookie that stands apart from typical desserts.
Versatile Treat: Whether served as an afternoon snack or an elegant party dessert, these cookies adapt beautifully to any occasion.
Unforgettable Texture: Expect soft and chewy cookies with a delightful crinkle surface, offering a contrast that’s irresistible.
Take your baking to the next level with these crowd-pleasers! Don’t forget to explore the variation ideas to personalize your cookies further.
Matcha Crinkle Cookie Ingredients
• Get ready to bake with these easy ingredients!
For the Cookie Dough
- Softened Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 114g) – Provides fat for richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Sweetens the cookies and aids in creating a crinkled texture; swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking Soda (1/8 tsp) – Provides additional leavening and helps cookies spread; crucial for achieving the perfect rise.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavor balance; reduce or omit if using salted butter.
- Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients and creates structure; flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.
- Flour (2 cups / 260g) – The main structure component; all-purpose flour is recommended, but gluten-free flour can also work.
- Matcha Powder (2-3 tbsp) – Provides the distinctive flavor and color; using high-quality matcha ensures the best taste.
- Granulated Sugar (¼ cup / 50g) – For rolling the dough balls before baking, creating a lovely crisp sugar layer.
- Powdered Sugar (½ cup / 50g) – For rolling after baking, adding sweetness and decoration; feel free to sift in extra matcha for visual appeal.
How to Make Matcha Crinkle Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures an even bake and prevents sticking, so your cookies come out perfectly!
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Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer, creating a lovely base for your cookies.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully blended. The eggs act as a binder, giving your cookies structure and moisture for that delightful chew.
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Sift matcha powder into the flour, then gradually mix the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep that tender texture!
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Scoop out 1.5 tbsp portions of dough using a cookie scoop. Roll the dough balls first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar, creating that lovely crinkle effect when baked.
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Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. Bake for approximately 11 minutes or until they’re set but still soft to the touch—perfectly soft cookies are a joy!
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Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps preserve their soft and chewy interior while allowing them to firm up on the outside.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra matcha on top of the cookies before serving for an extra pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply roll them in sugar, freeze on a baking sheet, and transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: When ready to indulge, warm cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to refresh that delightful texture of these Matcha Crinkle Cookies.
What to Serve with The Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies?
Pair your delightful matcha treats with a few simple accompaniments that elevate the experience.
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Matcha Latte: The creamy richness of a matcha latte mirrors the earthy flavors in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing perfect for afternoon tea.
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Green Tea: A steaming cup of traditional green tea offers a refreshing balance, highlighting the matcha’s unique flavor without overpowering it.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies, adding a delightful sweetness to each bite.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries add a lovely brightness to the dessert, enhancing its visual appeal and taste.
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White Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the cookies not only amplifies the sweet factor but also adds a creamy texture that complements the earthy notes of matcha.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea create an intriguing flavor contrast, making this pairing a cozy option for spice enthusiasts seeking a little adventure.
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Nuts: A handful of toasted almonds or pistachios provides a crunchy contrast that rounds out the soft and chewy texture of the cookies, bringing in a nutty flavor.
These delightful combinations will ensure that your Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies are truly unforgettable!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your baking experience even easier! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients according to the recipe, scoop the dough, and roll them in granulated and powdered sugar. Arrange the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap to refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven, transfer the dough balls directly from the refrigerator to the baking sheet, and bake as instructed. This method allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime, just as delicious and vibrant!
Expert Tips for The Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies
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Use Quality Matcha: Always choose high-quality matcha to ensure the best flavor and vibrant color in your cookies. Lower-quality matcha can lead to a bitter taste.
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Freshness Matters: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; stale leavening agents can result in flat cookies. Check expiration dates to ensure light and fluffy results!
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Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing and even baking. Manual shaping can lead to irregular textures and uneven baking.
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Roll for Crinkles: Don’t skip rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar first; this creates the signature crinkle effect in your cookies. Skipping it could result in flat cookies.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. They should look set but still soft in the center when you take them out.
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Kitchen Temperature: If your kitchen is warm, work in shorter intervals or chill the dough briefly. This helps maintain the cookie shape during baking, ensuring you enjoy the best Matcha Crinkle Cookies.
Matcha Crinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the traditional recipe, unlocking new flavor possibilities in every bite!
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Mocha Matcha: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious mocha twist that brings a rich chocolate flavor to each cookie.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft cookie base.
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Berry Bright: Incorporate dried berries, such as cranberries or blueberries, for a fruity explosion that adds a natural sweetness and cheerful color.
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Citrus Burst: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing citrus kick, brightening the matcha’s earthy notes.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a spicy touch, creating a warm flavor profile that perfectly balances the sweetness.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle in some caramel sauce just before baking. The melting caramel hearts will create a decadent surprise in the center of each cookie.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a safe option, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy these cookies too!
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Sweet Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a fully vegan cookie that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best matcha powder?
Absolutely! When choosing matcha powder, look for vibrant green color and fine texture, as this indicates high quality. Authentic culinary-grade matcha has a smoother taste and is less bitter, making it perfect for baking. Brands that specifically state “ceremonial” or “culinary” grade will ensure you’re getting the best flavor for your cookies!
How should I store my Matcha Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-5 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider refrigerating them; they can last for up to a week when stored properly. Just remember to keep them in a container that seals well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the unbaked dough! Form the dough into balls as instructed, roll them in granulated sugar first, and then place them on a baking sheet to freeze for an hour. Once they’re set, transfer them to a zip-top bag and label with the date. They can be stored for up to 3 months! When ready to bake, you can pop them directly into the oven; just add a minute or two to the baking time.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Matcha Crinkle Cookies spread too much, it may be due to a few factors! Make sure your butter is softened and not melted, as melted butter can lead to excess spreading. Additionally, if your kitchen is warm, try working in shorter intervals to keep the dough cooler before baking. If needed, you can chill the dough for 10-15 minutes to help maintain the cookie shape during baking.
Are Matcha Crinkle Cookies suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Very! You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, so it’s a good idea to experiment with different brands to find one that works best for your taste and desired chewiness.
Can my pets have any of these ingredients?
No, it’s essential to be cautious! Many ingredients in cookies, like chocolate and sugar, aren’t suitable for pets. While matcha powder itself is generally safe for dogs in small amounts, it still contains caffeine, which can be harmful in larger doses. It’s best to keep these cookies as a delightful human treat and allow your furry friends to stick to their own special snacks.
These Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs should help you navigate the baking process and enjoy these delightful treats to their fullest!
The Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies No Chilling Needed for Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully blended.
- Sift matcha powder into the flour, then gradually mix the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Scoop out 1.5 tbsp portions of dough using a cookie scoop. Roll the dough balls first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar.
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. Bake for approximately 11 minutes.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.