Perfect Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies Recipe
These Perfect Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies combine the earthy richness of culinary-grade matcha powder with the delicate floral notes of lavender frosting. Soft and tender sugar cookies are infused with matcha for a unique flavor and vibrant green color, topped with a creamy lavender-infused frosting for a lovely, fragrant finish. Ideal for afternoon tea, special occasions, or any time you crave a sophisticated sweet treat.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion - Japanese inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Matcha Sugar Cookies:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons culinary-grade matcha powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Lavender Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1–2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon culinary lavender buds
- Light purple gel food coloring (optional)
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together 2 3/4 cups flour, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons matcha powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents and matcha flavor.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This aerates the dough, helping it to be tender.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined, ensuring a moist dough.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until a thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Form and chill dough: Scoop dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls, place them on a baking sheet, and slightly flatten the tops. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to improve cookie texture and prevent spreading during baking.
- Bake cookies: Bake chilled dough for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Remove from oven and cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare lavender frosting: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream and steep 1 teaspoon culinary lavender buds in it for 4 to 5 minutes to infuse flavor. Strain out the lavender buds.
- Mix frosting: Beat 1/2 cup softened butter and 2 cups sifted powdered sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the lavender-infused milk, adjusting to reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Add color and frost: If desired, add light purple gel food coloring for a pretty hue. Use a knife or piping bag to frost the fully cooled matcha cookies, then serve or store.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade matcha powder for best flavor and vibrant color.
- Chilling the dough helps control spread and creates a better texture.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds moisture and tenderness, but can be substituted with an equal amount of whole milk if needed.
- Steep lavender in warm milk carefully to avoid bitterness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate.
- For vegan adaptation, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: matcha sugar cookies, lavender frosting, green tea cookies, floral cookies, matcha dessert, tea time cookies