Matcha Sugar Cookies with Lavender Frosting
A Delightful Baking Experience: Matcha Sugar Cookies with Lavender Frosting
Imagine a sunny afternoon spent in your kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. That’s what you get with these Matcha Sugar Cookies adorned with a delicate Lavender Frosting. This delightful recipe perfectly blends the earthy taste of matcha with the floral notes of lavender, making these cookies a unique treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy gathering with friends or a special family celebration, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this recipe truly special is its fusion of flavors. The enticing green hue of matcha not only appeals visually but also brings a host of health benefits, including antioxidants and a gentle energy boost. The sweet, floral lavender frosting adds a luxurious touch that elevates these sugar cookies from traditional treats to gourmet desserts.
This recipe is perfect for many occasions:
- Quick treats for afternoon tea
- A unique addition to holiday cookie assortments
- A delightful way to impress guests at a brunch
“These cookies are a game-changer! The matcha flavor balances so well with the floral taste of the lavender. I’ve never tasted anything like them!” – Happy Baker
Preparing Matcha Sugar Cookies and Lavender Frosting
Creating these exquisite cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The entire recipe involves simple steps – from mixing the dough to frosting the cooled cookies – you’re in for a delightful baking session. Let’s break down how to transform these ingredients into scrumptious treats.
What You’ll Need
For the Matcha Sugar Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lavender Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of dried culinary lavender, finely ground
Note: If you’re unable to find culinary lavender, feel free to skip it or substitute it with lemon zest for a different refreshing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare Your Oven and Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing well until combined.
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Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
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Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter, and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
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Bake: Place the sheets in your preheated oven, baking for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
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Prepare Lavender Frosting: In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Slowly add in the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground lavender until fluffy.
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Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, enhance each with a generous layer of lavender frosting. For an elegant touch, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of matcha powder or add a single lavender bud on top.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These Matcha Sugar Cookies with Lavender Frosting are as beautiful as they are delicious. To serve, arrange them on a pretty platter alongside a pot of freshly brewed tea for a charming afternoon delight. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly sealed, they can last about a week, though they’re sure to disappear well before then! For longer storage, you can freeze the undecorated cookies for up to three months, making them an ideal make-ahead treat.
Tips for Success
- Butter Softening: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture – it should be pliable but still cool to the touch.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender.
- Experiment with Lavender: If you’re unsure about the strength of lavender, start with a tiny pinch and taste the frosting. You can always add more to suit your preferences.
Creative Twists
Feel free to jazz up this recipe with many variations:
- Add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) for a zingy contrast to the matcha.
- Swap lavender for other floral extracts, like rose water, for an entirely new flavor profile.
- Try different frostings; a simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting also works beautifully.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare and bake these cookies?
The whole process, from mixing to baking, takes about 30-40 minutes, plus additional cooling time for the cookies.
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may differ slightly.
How do I know if the cookies are fully baked?
The cookies are done when the edges are faintly golden and the tops are set. Gently touch the tops; they should feel firm but not hard.
Get ready to experience the delightful combination of matcha and lavender in these delicious sugar cookies. Happy baking!
Matcha Sugar Cookies with Lavender Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing well until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Slowly add in the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground lavender until fluffy.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost each with a generous layer of lavender frosting. Optionally, sprinkle a tiny bit of matcha powder or add a single lavender bud on top.
