Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both elegant and delightfully unique, this Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These buttery, crumbly cookies melt in your mouth with a subtle earthy sweetness from the matcha powder, making them absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving them with afternoon tea or gifting them to someone special, the vibrant green hue and tender texture guarantee they’ll leave everyone asking for your secret. This simple yet sophisticated treat perfectly blends Japanese flavor with French technique, creating a stunning cookie that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the creamy butter giving richness, to the high-quality matcha powder imbuing that gorgeous green color and delicate flavor. Together, they create a texture that’s tender but holds its shape, making these cookies a true standout.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base essential for that tender shortbread texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Gives slight sweetness and helps create the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder: Adds vibrant green color and a clean, earthy tea flavor—use ceremonial-grade for best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and subtle complexity to every bite.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, lending structure and that classic sablé crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling, optional): Adds a charming sparkle and slight crunch when used on the edges.
How to Make Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together until they become light and fluffy—this is essential for the cookies’ tender texture. Take your time here; a well-creamed mixture ensures a delicate crumb.
Step 2: Incorporate Matcha and Flavorings
Next, sift in the matcha powder and salt to avoid any lumps, then add the vanilla extract. Gently mix until everything is well combined, letting that beautiful green color and fragrant scent come alive in your bowl.
Step 3: Add Flour and Form the Dough
Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until a soft dough forms. It should hold together easily without being sticky. Be careful not to over-mix, as this will keep the cookies tender.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Divide the dough into two equal parts and roll each into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for at least an hour to firm up—this step is key for easy slicing and perfect shape retention during baking.
Step 5: Slice and Prepare for Baking
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the dough logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds. For a lovely finishing touch, roll the edges of each cookie in granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheet about an inch apart.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to just begin to turn golden—this means they’re perfectly baked without losing their tender crumb. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and develop their signature crumbly texture.
How to Serve Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe

Garnishes
These cookies shine on their own, but you can elevate their presentation with a dusting of powdered sugar or a delicate drizzle of white chocolate. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top before baking also adds a lovely nutty contrast to the matcha’s earthiness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe with a cup of steaming green tea, jasmine tea, or even a creamy matcha latte. The subtle tea notes in the cookies complement their drink counterparts beautifully, creating a harmonious and soothing teatime experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, stack your sablé cookies in a glass jar wrapped with a pretty ribbon. Or arrange them on a slate platter alongside fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or raspberries to contrast the green cookies visually and taste-wise. You might even sandwich them with a thin layer of red bean paste or white chocolate ganache for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously crisp and tender for up to one week—perfect for enjoying all week long or bringing out for a special occasion.
Freezing
If you want to prepare them in advance, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Wrap the dough logs tightly and freeze for up to one month, then slice and bake straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze baked cookies in a sealed container to keep their freshness intact.
Reheating
To bring out that fresh-baked warmth, pop your cookies in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This gently revives their softness without losing any of their delicate texture or flavor.
FAQs
What is the best matcha powder to use for this recipe?
For the brightest color and most delicate flavor, use ceremonial-grade matcha powder. Culinary-grade matcha can work, but it may result in a slightly more bitter taste and muted color.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key to the characteristic sablé texture and taste, so substitutions aren’t recommended. The flavor and crumb might be compromised if you use margarine or oil.
How long do Matcha Sablé Cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to one week.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you could try a gluten-free flour blend, but expect some changes in texture.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
This recipe calls for butter, which is not vegan. You could experiment with plant-based butter alternatives, but the texture and flavor might differ from the classic sablé.
Final Thoughts
Making this Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe is like greeting an old friend—you get comfort, elegance, and a little bit of magic all in one bite. Whether you’re a matcha lover or just discovering its charm, these cookies bring a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that will brighten your baking adventures. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your go-to treat every time you want something special yet effortless.
Print
Matcha Sablé Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Matcha Sablé Cookies are delicate, buttery shortbread treats infused with vibrant ceremonial-grade matcha powder, offering a perfect blend of Japanese and French pastry traditions. Their crumbly texture and subtle sweetness make them an elegant dessert or tea-time snack.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a tender base for the cookies.
- Add Flavorings: Sift in the matcha powder and salt to avoid lumps, then add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, ensuring the matcha is evenly distributed for vibrant color and flavor.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms, taking care not to overwork it to maintain a tender texture.
- Form Dough Logs and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm to make slicing easier.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice and Sugar Coat (Optional): Remove the chilled dough logs and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If desired, roll the edges of each cookie in granulated sugar for a decorative, slightly crunchy finish.
- Bake Cookies: Arrange the cookie slices about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the most vibrant green color and delicate, authentic flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies freeze well; store in a sealed container or freezer bag and thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-French