Name: Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 1 h 36 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 150 g all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons matcha powder (ceremonial-grade); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 150 g granulated sugar; 60 g unsalted butter (melted); 50 g granulated sugar; 50 g powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 48 reviews

If you have a soft spot for delicate desserts with a vibrant twist, you are going to love this Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine the gentle earthiness of ceremonial-grade matcha powder with a delightful sugary crackle on top, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s both beautiful and delicious. With crisp edges and tender interiors, these crinkle cookies make the perfect companion for an afternoon tea or a sweet snack anytime you want a little green-hued happiness. Whether you are a matcha fan or just curious about exploring new flavors, this recipe is a wonderful way to add a fresh, fun touch to your baking adventures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a large mound of white flour sits on a white marbled surface. To the right of the bowl is a round wooden bowl filled with fine white sugar. Below the glass bowl are two brown eggs placed next to a stick of unsalted sweet cream butter wrapped in light yellow paper. Next to the eggs is a small white bowl holding a bright green powder. Above the green powder is a small wooden bowl containing white baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The scene is bright and clear with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward and each one plays an important role in crafting those perfectly textured and flavorful cookies. From the vibrant matcha powder that gives the cookies their signature color and earthy taste to the combination of sugars that create that irresistible crackled finish, every element is essential.

150 g all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing structure and a tender crumb.
2 tablespoons matcha powder (ceremonial-grade): For an authentic and vibrant green flavor; sifting helps avoid lumps.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and achieve the right puffiness.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and add richness.
150 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie dough and aids in creating a tender texture.
60 g unsalted butter (melted): Adds moisture and a subtle richness.
50 g granulated sugar (for rolling): Gives initial crunch and helps create the cookie’s exterior.
50 g powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates the beautiful cracked pattern on top when baked.

How to Make Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the flour mixture

Start by sifting the all-purpose flour with the ceremonial-grade matcha powder into a medium bowl to break up any clumps and ensure even color and flavor throughout. Add the baking powder and salt, then stir to combine all the dry ingredients. This mixture will provide the perfect base for your cookies.

Step 2: Whisk the egg mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture turns slightly pale and well combined—about 3 minutes. This step adds air to your cookies, making them light and fluffy. Slowly stream in the melted butter while continuing to whisk constantly, ensuring a smooth and cohesive batter.

Step 3: Combine flour and egg mixtures

Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the wet egg mixture using a spatula. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender and soft cookie texture. Stir just until everything is combined, with no flour pockets remaining.

Step 4: Chill the dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to scoop and helping the flavors meld for better taste.

Step 5: Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps ensure even baking.

Step 6: Prepare the rolling sugars

In two separate shallow dishes, place the 50 g granulated sugar in one and the 50 g powdered sugar in the other. These will coat the dough balls and create their iconic crackled top.

Step 7: Scoop and roll the dough balls

Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scooper, scoop portions of dough and drop them into the granulated sugar. Roll the dough ball around to coat it evenly, then gently roll between your hands to form a smooth ball. Finally, roll the dough ball generously in the powdered sugar, making sure it’s fully coated.

Step 8: Bake the cookies

Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 to 2 inches apart to give room to spread. Bake for about 11 minutes or until the powdered sugar cracks and the cookies puff up beautifully. These cracks reveal the signature crinkle look that makes this Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe so irresistible.

Step 9: Cool the cookies

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step ensures they maintain their delicate texture and don’t break apart.

How to Serve Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe

The image shows a cooling rack filled with round green cookies covered in irregular white powdered sugar patches, giving a textured, cracked look. The cookies have a soft, slightly crinkled surface with vibrant green color underneath the white patches. There are about eight cookies on the rack, spaced evenly, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of extra powdered sugar on top just before serving for a snowy finish. You could also add a few toasted white sesame seeds or finely chopped pistachios for a nutty crunch that complements the matcha flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot green tea or a frothy matcha latte to deepen the green tea experience. For a creamy contrast, consider serving alongside vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Place a few cookies in a decorative tin or cellophane bag tied with a pastel ribbon for charming homemade gifts. Serve on a rustic wooden board accompanied by fresh seasonal fruits like berries or kiwi slices to add color and freshness to your cookie spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Matcha Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy, preserving the perfect balance between soft insides and delicate crunchy edges.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cookies longer, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

Reheating

To bring back a freshly baked warmth, reheat the cookies in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture chewy rather than crisp and tender.

FAQs

Can I use culinary-grade matcha instead of ceremonial-grade?

While you can substitute culinary-grade matcha, ceremonial-grade matcha delivers a brighter color and a more delicate, smooth flavor that enhances these cookies perfectly. Culinary-grade matcha may have a slightly bitter or grassy taste that could alter the flavor balance.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies maintain their shape while baking. It also allows the flavors to meld and prevents excessive spreading, ensuring those picturesque crinkles form properly.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make a vegan version, you can experiment with flax eggs or other egg substitutes and use plant-based butter alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but the cookies can still be delicious with some tweaks.

What causes the crinkle effect on these cookies?

The crinkle appearance happens because the cookie dough is coated in powdered sugar before baking. As the cookies bake and expand, the sugar cracks and separates, giving them that signature crinkly pattern that is both eye-catching and tasty.

How can I store the cookie dough before baking?

You can refrigerate the dough covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This can actually deepen the flavor and improve the texture. Just be sure to bring the dough slightly to room temperature if it becomes too hard to scoop easily.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely think you are going to fall in love with these Matcha Crinkle Cookies Recipe—it’s such an easy and delightful way to bring new life to your baking lineup. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, these cookies are a little green treasure full of warmth and sweetness. Go ahead and give them a try; your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you plenty!