If you’re looking for a delightful treat that dazzles with its unique flavor and charming appearance, the Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These irresistible little bites combine the earthy, vibrant notes of premium matcha powder with the rich nuttiness of pecans, all wrapped up in a tender, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth. Finished with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons, gifting, or simply indulging your sweet tooth with something a bit different.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and color of your Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe. From the creamy softness of butter to the delicate green hue of matcha powder, this combination is simple yet spectacular.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that ensures your cookies are tender and buttery with every bite.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structure of the cookie, creating that delicate crumb that holds everything together perfectly.
- Pecans (2 cups, finely chopped): Adds a wonderful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the matcha beautifully.
- Premium quality matcha powder (1 1/2 tbsp): The star ingredient that brings an earthy, vibrant green color and distinct flavor that makes these cookies truly special.
- Granulated white sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough just right, balancing the bitterness of matcha with a gentle sugary touch.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for rolling): Coats the cookies with a soft, snowy finish that enhances both taste and presentation.
How to Make Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Baking Sheets Ready
Preheat your oven to a steady 325°F to ensure even baking. Line two cookie sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine all ingredients except the powdered sugar. Start mixing on low speed, gradually increasing to medium, until the dough comes together in a beautiful, homogenous mixture. This step is crucial for incorporating the matcha and pecans evenly for that perfect bite.
Step 3: Shape Your Snowballs
Roll your dough into 1-inch diameter balls, shaping each with love and care. Space them about an inch apart on your prepared cookie sheets to allow even spreading and baking. This size is key for that classic snowball look — bite-sized and utterly inviting.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for around 20 minutes or until you see the edges start to develop a light golden brown. The scent of matcha and warm pecans will start filling your kitchen, signaling that magic is happening inside the oven.
Step 5: The Final Dusting
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, roll each cookie generously in the powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowy appearance. For an extra festive touch, dust another layer right before serving or gifting.
How to Serve Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, you can elevate their presentation by adding a sprinkle of extra matcha powder on top or even a light drizzle of white chocolate. It adds a little flair and enhances the green color, emphasizing their uniqueness.
Side Dishes
Matcha Snowball Cookies are excellent companions to a cup of hot green tea, warm milk, or even a refreshing iced latte. Their earthy matcha undertones harmonize beautifully with simple drinks, turning snack time into a mini ceremony.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, arrange your Matcha Snowball Cookies in a beautiful tin lined with parchment paper or seal them in a clear jar tied with a green ribbon to highlight their vibrant hue. Layering the cookies with parchment or tissue paper helps keep them intact and looks fantastic as a handmade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When you have extra Matcha Snowball Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from drying out and keeps that tender texture intact for up to a week, perfect for enjoying a little treat over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep your cookies fresh for even longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, pop your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft or chewy, but the oven keeps their texture just right and revives their buttery aroma.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut in this Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a wonderful flavor, walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives. Just be sure to chop them finely so they blend smoothly into the cookie dough.
What makes matcha powder “premium quality” and why is it important?
Premium matcha powder is finely ground, vibrant green, and has a fresh, sweet flavor without bitterness. Using high-quality matcha ensures your cookies have the bright color and authentic taste that make this recipe special.
Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
To make this recipe vegan, try substituting the butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but with the right butter alternative, these cookies can still be delicious.
Why is it important to let the cookies cool before rolling in powdered sugar?
Cooling prevents the powdered sugar from melting and turning into a glaze. This keeps your Matcha Snowball Cookies looking like freshly fallen snow and ensures that perfect, powdery coating.
How can I avoid the cookies spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your dough is well chilled before rolling and baking. Also, spacing the dough balls adequately on your cookie sheets gives them room to bake evenly without merging into one big cookie.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about these Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe that makes every bite feel special. The harmony of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and the unmistakable charm of matcha powder creates a cookie that’s not only beautiful but deeply satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — whether it’s for a cozy afternoon, a thoughtful gift, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something wonderfully different and delicious.
Print
Matcha Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 42 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Matcha Snowball Cookies are delicate, buttery treats infused with premium matcha powder and finely chopped pecans. Perfectly crumbly with a sweet dusting of powdered sugar, they combine classic snowball cookie texture with a unique earthy twist from green tea, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups pecans (finely chopped)
- 1 1/2 tbsp premium quality matcha powder
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
Coating
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling and dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two cookie sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine softened unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, finely chopped pecans, matcha powder, and granulated sugar. Mix on low to medium speed until the dough comes together and all ingredients are well combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing each ball approximately 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies start to turn lightly golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked with a tender crumb.
- Cool and sugar-coat the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat thoroughly. For an extra touch, dust a second layer of powdered sugar before serving or packaging the cookies for gifting.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is properly softened to achieve the best dough texture for rolling.
- Use premium matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Finely chop the pecans or pulse in a food processor for an even texture that blends well in the cookie dough.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before coating with powdered sugar to prevent melting and clumping.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and maintain their delicate texture.
- These cookies can be gifted as charming treats, especially with the additional powdered sugar dusting for a snowball effect.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
