There’s something magical about biting into a warm cookie that’s crisp on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. I still remember the first time I made matcha crinkle cookies — it was a chilly afternoon, and I had leftover matcha from testing a batch of brownies. As the cookies baked, the kitchen filled with this earthy vanilla aroma that felt like a hug in dessert form. That bright green crackle effect was just the cherry on top.
If you’re new to baking with matcha, you might wonder if it’s too bold or too grassy. But don’t worry — when paired with the right ingredients like vanilla and white chocolate, it becomes a beautifully balanced flavor. These cookies are more than just a pretty face; they’re soft, chewy, and subtly sweet, with a crisp sugar-dusted crust.
What makes this recipe even more exciting is how versatile it is. You can even turn leftovers into toppings for matcha overnight oats. Talk about leveling up your breakfast! Plus, with matcha being packed with antioxidants (Healthline confirms it’s one of the healthiest green teas), this indulgence feels just a little more virtuous.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting a treat, or just want a twist on classic crinkle cookies, this version deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box. And with a simple mix, chill, roll, and bake method, they’re perfect for any skill level.
Table of Contents
The Cookie Chemistry & Matcha Magic
Why Matcha Works So Well in Cookies
Baking with matcha might seem a little intimidating if you’ve only used it in lattes or traditional tea. But matcha is incredibly versatile in desserts — especially cookies. Its natural grassy notes and slight bitterness balance beautifully with rich, sweet ingredients. Instead of overwhelming the dough, it adds subtle depth and color. When baked into a crinkle cookie, the result is pure magic: crisp edges, soft centers, and that classic powdered sugar crackle.
Here’s why the ingredients work so well together:
- Matcha powder – provides a beautiful green hue and earthy, slightly umami flavor
- Butter – adds richness and moisture
- Granulated sugar – gives sweetness and structure
- Eggs – act as a binding agent for the dough
- Powdered sugar – helps create that signature crinkle texture
- Vanilla extract – softens the edges of the matcha’s flavor
- (Optional) White chocolate chips – for a creamy contrast
Unlike cocoa, matcha doesn’t turn bitter in the oven — as long as you use a good ceremonial or culinary grade. But here’s the catch: avoid acidic ingredients like lemon juice, as they can dull the matcha’s color and flavor.
Texture, Taste & That Signature Crinkle Finish
So, what do matcha cookies taste like? Think soft sugar cookie with a gentle green tea twist — mellow, sweet, and just a hint of earthiness. When paired with vanilla or white chocolate, it becomes a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Want that perfect crinkle? Chill the dough. This helps it hold shape while baking, allowing the top to split just right. Curious how matcha holds up in other desserts? You’ll love our rich and fudgy matcha brownies — same flavor magic, just in brownie form.
How to Make the Best Matcha Crinkle Cookies at Home
Making matcha crinkle cookies doesn’t require fancy skills—just thoughtful ingredients and a few expert tricks. Start with high-quality matcha powder. It’s the key to getting that rich, earthy flavor and beautiful green hue. Use culinary-grade matcha, which holds its color and doesn’t turn dull during baking. Lower-grade powders can taste off or even “fishy,” which turns people away from matcha in desserts.
To build the dough, matcha is whisked directly into the dry ingredients to ensure even distribution. Then comes softened butter for richness, eggs for structure, and both granulated and powdered sugar to balance flavor and create that signature crackled surface.
Each ingredient plays a specific role. Matcha brings flavor and color. Butter delivers moisture and a soft texture. Eggs bind the dough while adding richness. Granulated sugar helps with a gentle crunch, and powdered sugar gives the cookies their snowy, crinkled finish. Together, they form a soft, chewy center with a crisp, delicate edge.
Here’s the golden rule: chill the dough. After mixing, let the dough rest in the fridge for at least an hour. This prevents spreading in the oven and ensures those classic cookie cracks. When you’re ready to bake, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar first, then in powdered sugar for maximum crinkle effect.
Bake at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the centers should feel slightly soft. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes to firm up before transferring to a wire rack.
If you love layering matcha into your treats, don’t forget to check out my matcha overnight oats for a breakfast version of your favorite green tea flavor.
Matcha Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, matcha, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll chilled dough into balls, coat first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar.
- Place on baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set.
- Cool on tray 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!FAQs + Health Benefits of Baking with Matcha
What do matcha cookies taste like?
They’re soft and sweet with a mild earthy flavor from matcha, like a sugar cookie with green tea notes.
What does matcha taste like in baking?
Matcha tastes smooth and slightly grassy in baking—balanced by sugar and butter for a mellow flavor.
What can you not mix with matcha?
Avoid acidic ingredients like lemon and low-quality matcha, as they can dull the flavor and color.
Is baking with matcha healthy?
Yes, matcha is rich in antioxidants and nutrients that stay intact even after baking.
Does all matcha taste fishy?
No. Only old or low-quality matcha tastes fishy—fresh matcha should be grassy and clean.
Conclusion
Matcha crinkle cookies aren’t just beautiful—they’re a perfect blend of bold flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re already a matcha lover or just curious to try something new, these cookies offer a satisfying twist on a classic. With just a handful of ingredients and a few smart tips, you’ll get those perfect green crinkles every time.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with quality matcha and flavor pairings that suit your taste. From cozy tea-time treats to holiday cookie boxes, these cookies check every box. Once you bake a batch, you’ll see why they deserve to be called the best matcha crinkle cookies—and why you’ll keep coming back for more.