Description
Matcha Sablé Cookies combine the delicate sweetness of buttery French shortbread with the earthy, vibrant flavor of matcha green tea powder. These crisp, tender cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or as an elegant treat, offering a unique fusion of Japanese and French baking traditions. Rolled in sugar for an optional crisp edge and easily customizable with a white chocolate dip, these cookies impress with taste and presentation.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional
- Granulated sugar (for rolling)
- White chocolate (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and smooth, creating a fluffy base for the dough.
- Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract thoroughly until fully incorporated, ensuring the dough develops a rich flavor and smooth consistency.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha green tea powder, and salt, evenly distributing the matcha and salt particles for a balanced taste.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, gently folding and mixing until a soft dough forms without overworking it, to maintain tender texture.
- Shape Dough Logs: Divide the dough into two equal halves, shaping each into a log approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. For a crisp exterior, optionally roll the logs in granulated sugar before wrapping.
- Chill Dough: Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm, which helps the cookies maintain shape during baking.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Slice and Arrange Cookies: Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden, indicating perfect doneness with a crisp edge and tender crumb.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for optimal texture and flavor development.
- Optional Decoration: For an elegant finishing touch, once fully cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate and let set before serving.
Notes
- For a more intense matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Dipping cookies in white chocolate enhances presentation and adds complementary sweetness.