Matcha button cookies are a delightful fusion of rich, buttery texture and the distinct umami flavor of matcha. These bite-sized treats are perfect for tea lovers, offering a balance of sweetness and earthy notes that make them irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, fun, and rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about matcha button cookies: the key ingredients, step-by-step preparation, baking tips, health benefits of matcha, and even creative variations to try.
Why Matcha Button Cookies?
Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, is widely celebrated for its unique taste and health benefits. Combining matcha with the buttery goodness of cookies creates a sophisticated treat that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee. Here’s why you’ll love these cookies:
Aesthetic Appeal: Their vibrant green color makes them stand out.
Rich and Buttery Texture: The butter and almond nibs provide a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Health Benefits: Matcha is packed with antioxidants, which can boost metabolism and improve focus.
Simple and Fun to Make: With a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready in no time.
Ingredients Breakdown
1. Butter (250g, salted & softened)
Butter is the foundation of these cookies, providing richness and a soft texture. Using salted butter enhances the flavor, but you can also use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt separately.
2. Powdered Sugar (150g)
Powdered sugar dissolves easily, giving the cookies a smooth and tender texture. It’s preferred over granulated sugar for this recipe.
3. Egg Yolks (2 yolks)
Egg yolks add richness and help bind the dough. They also contribute to the soft texture of the cookies.
4. Milk Powder (60g)
Milk powder enhances the flavor and gives the cookies a creamier, more indulgent taste.
5. Cornstarch (60g)
Cornstarch makes the cookies extra tender and prevents them from becoming too dense.
6. All-Purpose Flour (300g)
Flour provides structure to the cookies. Sifting it with the other dry ingredients ensures an even and lump-free dough.
7. Matcha Powder (15g)
The star ingredient! Matcha adds a distinct, earthy flavor and beautiful green color. Always use high-quality ceremonial or culinary-grade matcha for the best taste and color.
8. Almond Nibs (150g, for coating)
These add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, balancing out the smoothness of the cookies. You can also use chopped almonds or skip them if you prefer a plain cookie.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 170°C (340°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheating ensures even baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, making the cookies tender.
Step 3: Add the Egg Yolks
Mix in the egg yolks one at a time until fully combined. The yolks enrich the dough and improve texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift together the milk powder, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and matcha powder to remove lumps. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls to form button-sized cookies.
Step 6: Coat with Almond Nibs
Gently press each dough ball into the almond nibs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step adds crunch and visual appeal.
Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the cookies on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps them firm up while retaining their buttery softness.
Tips for Perfect Matcha Button Cookies
Use High-Quality Matcha – Cheap matcha can taste bitter and appear dull in color. Opt for a vibrant green, fresh-smelling matcha.
Do Not Overmix the Dough – Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until everything is combined.
Chill the Dough (Optional) – If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before shaping to prevent the butter from melting too quickly.
Experiment with Nuts – Instead of almonds, try coating the cookies in crushed pistachios or hazelnuts for a unique twist.
Pair with Green Tea or Coffee – These cookies taste amazing when enjoyed with a hot cup of matcha latte or espresso.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha isn’t just delicious; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Here are some of its top benefits:
Rich in Antioxidants – Matcha contains catechins, which help fight oxidative stress and boost immunity.
Boosts Metabolism – Studies show that matcha can increase calorie burning, making it great for weight management.
Enhances Focus and Energy – Unlike coffee, matcha provides a steady caffeine boost without jitters, thanks to its amino acid, L-theanine.
Supports Heart Health – Regular consumption of matcha can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Creative Variations to Try
Matcha White Chocolate Cookies – Add white chocolate chips to the dough for extra sweetness.
Matcha Coconut Cookies – Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Gluten-Free Version – Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Vegan Matcha Cookies – Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of egg yolks.
Final Thoughts
Matcha button cookies are the perfect blend of buttery goodness, earthy matcha flavor, and a satisfying crunch. They are easy to make, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or a special occasion, these cookies are sure to impress!
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how they turn out. Happy baking!
Must try Fudgy Chocolate Cake Recipe
Matcha Button Cookies Recipe

Enjoy this Matcha Button Cookies Recipe! Buttery, crunchy cookies with earthy matcha and almond nibs. Easy to make and perfect for tea lovers!
Type: Dessert, Cookies
Cuisine: Japanese, Fusion
Keywords: Matcha Button Cookies Recipe, matcha cookies, green tea cookies, almond matcha cookies, easy matcha dessert
Recipe Yield: 30-35 cookies
Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per cookie (varies based on ingredients)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Recipe Ingredients:
- Butter (250g, salted & softened)
- Powdered Sugar (150g)
- Egg Yolks (2 yolks)
- Milk Powder (60g)
- Cornstarch (60g)
- All-Purpose Flour (300g)
- Matcha Powder (15g)
- Almond Nibs (150g, for coating)
Recipe Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Cream Butter and Sugar:
Add the Egg Yolks:
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Coat with Almond Nibs:
Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Bake the Cookies: