Name: Heavenly Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies for Unique Flavor Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Added for tenderness.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Check for freshness.); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Optional for a denser cookie.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Use light salts for health.); 2 tablespoons culinary-grade matcha powder (Can substitute with cocoa powder.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (Can use margarine or vegan butter.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Coconut sugar is a substitute.); 1 large egg (For vegan option, use 1/4 cup applesauce.); 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (Plain yogurt or buttermilk works too.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (No substitutes recommended.); 2 cups powdered sugar (Syrup can be an alternative.); 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream (Almond or coconut milk can be substituted.); 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds (Ensure it's culinary grade.); light purple gel food coloring (Optional for aesthetic charm.)

A quiet afternoon tea party is a splendid backdrop for my latest culinary delight: Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies. With their vibrant green hues and delicate floral notes, these cookies bring a touch of elegance to any gathering. This unique recipe not only boasts a quick prep time but also offers the chance to impress your friends with a beautiful fusion of earthy matcha and fragrant lavender. The chewy texture combined with pastel frosting makes each bite feel like a luxurious treat without a bakery price tag. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just want to indulge yourself on a cozy evening, these cookies are sure to elevate your dessert game. Could you imagine a better way to bask in the warmth of homemade goodness?

Why Choose Matcha Lavender Cookies?

Unique Flavor: The delightful combination of earthy matcha and floral lavender creates a truly unforgettable cookie experience that stands out as a conversation starter.

Quick Prep Time: With straightforward steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time, leaving you more moments to savor the sweet results or enjoy a cup of tea with your Cotton Candy Cookies.

Visual Appeal: The vibrant green color paired with pastel frosting makes these cookies not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes—perfect for impressing guests!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for gatherings, these cookies will enchant both friends and family alike, making them a must-have treat for your next tea party or special occasion.

Versatile Recipe: Don’t hesitate to explore variations, like a chocolate twist using cocoa powder, or trying different frostings such as lemon. Let your creativity shine!

Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
• Cornstarch – Added for tenderness, ensuring a soft cookie texture; no direct substitute needed.
• Baking powder – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise; always check for freshness.
• Baking soda – Works alongside baking powder for additional lift; optional if you prefer a denser cookie.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to use light salts for a healthier option.
• Culinary-grade matcha powder – Gives a unique earthy flavor and vibrant green color; substitute with cocoa powder for a chocolate alternative.
• Unsalted butter, softened – Contributes to moisture and richness; margarine or vegan butter can be used.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies while adding to their texture; coconut sugar is a suitable substitute.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together; for a vegan option, use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and a touch of tang; plain yogurt or buttermilk works too.
• Vanilla extract – Provides depth of flavor; no substitute recommended, but vanilla bean can be used for a richer taste.

For the Frosting
• Powdered sugar – Delivers sweetness and a smooth finish for frosting; syrup can be an alternative.
• Whole milk or heavy cream – Makes the frosting creamy and delightful; almond milk or coconut milk can be substituted.
• Culinary lavender buds – Infuses the frosting with a floral flavor; ensure it’s culinary grade for safety.
• Light purple gel food coloring (optional) – For aesthetic charm; feel free to omit if you prefer a natural look.

These Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they offer an engaging baking experience bursting with unique flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready for the delicious Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies that await. This preparation step is essential for easy cookie removal and a nice, even bake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and culinary-grade matcha powder until well combined. This dry mixture forms the base of your cookie dough, so be sure to break up any clumps of matcha and ensure everything is evenly distributed. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want the mixture to become light and fluffy, which will introduce air into the dough for chewy Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add in one egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture looks smooth and creamy. The wet ingredients add moisture and flavor, creating a rich dough for your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms. This step is crucial, as you want to ensure the ingredients are evenly blended without overworking the dough, which can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Shape and Chill the Dough
Using your hands or a spoon, form the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly to help achieve the perfect shape while baking. Chill the formed dough balls in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to enhance their texture before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Once chilled, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges set but the centers still appear a little soft. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Lavender Frosting
To make the frosting, gently heat whole milk in a small saucepan. Add the culinary lavender buds and steep for 4-5 minutes, allowing the flavor to infuse. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the lavender buds and let it cool while you prepare the frosting.

Step 9: Beat the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy. Gradually mix in the lavender-infused milk, adjusting the quantity to achieve your desired frosting consistency. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable, perfect for topping your cookies.

Step 10: Add Color and Frost
If you desire a pastel finish, mix in a few drops of light purple gel food coloring to the frosting. Once the cookies are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to frost each Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookie generously, capturing the wonderful flavors of lavender alongside the matcha.

Step 11: Let the Frosting Set
Allow the frosted cookies to sit at room temperature for a few minutes so the frosting can set slightly. This will create a lovely finish and make them ready to serve for your next gathering or tea party, showcasing a unique and delicious treat.

Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delicious twists that will take your Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies to the next level!

Chocolatey Delight: Substitute cocoa powder for matcha for a rich and indulgent chocolate version. These cookies will appeal to chocolate lovers and still maintain a lovely texture.
Zesty Frosting: Try a lemon frosting instead of lavender for a bright and tangy flavor. This citrusy twist pairs beautifully with the cookies’ subtle chewy goodness.
Nutty Goodness: Add chopped pistachios or almonds to the dough for extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. Not only do they enhance the taste, but they also add visual appeal!
Floral Fusion: Experiment with other edible florals like rose or chamomile in place of lavender for an intriguing flavor profile. This adds complexity and brings new aromas to your baking.
Spicy Touch: Incorporate a hint of cardamom or cinnamon for unexpected warmth and depth in your cookies. A sprinkle will elevate their cozy aroma, perfect for chilly evenings.
Vegan Alternative: Substitute vegan butter and replace the egg with a flax egg for a totally plant-based delight. Enjoy these cookies guilt-free while maintaining the unique flavor they bring.
Sugar Sensation: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar to create a deeper caramel-like flavor, adding a unique twist that complements the matcha beautifully.
Creamy Center: Add a dollop of cream cheese frosting to the centers of the cookies before baking for an unexpectedly decadent treat. The creaminess will melt into the cookie, making each bite wonderful.

As you explore these variations, let your taste buds guide you. Consider pairing a floral edition with a soothing cup of chamomile tea, or treat your family to the chocolatey delight alongside a tall glass of almond milk! And if you’re in the mood for something sweet after a tea party, why not whip up some delicious Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins for a delightful treat? Enjoy the journey of baking!

Expert Tips for Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature, not melted. Melted butter can lead to flat cookies that lack the desired chewiness.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough for 20 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Stale leavening agents can lead to cookies that don’t rise properly, affecting your Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies’ texture.
Frost When Cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and lose its beautiful pastel look.
Lavender Quality: Use culinary-grade lavender buds to ensure safety and optimal flavor in your frosting. Regular lavender from garden stores may not be food-safe.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Try adding different extracts or using cocoa powder for a chocolate variation to mix it up while enjoying the core essence of matcha and lavender.

Storage Tips for Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies

Fridge: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Frost before serving for the best taste.

Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies within a couple of days, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To refresh frozen or refrigerated cookies, let them sit at room temperature for a bit, or gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2-3 days in advance by shaping it into balls and refrigerating them. Simply chill for about 20 minutes prior to baking to ensure they maintain their lovely texture. If you prefer, the dough can also be frozen for up to one month—just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. For the frosting, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring it to room temperature and rewhip to regain its fluffiness before frosting the cookies. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy fresh, delightful Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Dreamy Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies

Elevate your baking experience with delightful pairings that complement the unique flavors of these elegant treats.

Jasmine Tea: This floral tea highlights the delicate lavender notes in the cookies, creating a serene pairing that soothes the senses.
Honey Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with honey and fresh berries adds a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, making for a delightful exploration of flavors and textures.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet bites echo the softness of the sugar cookies while bringing a tropical twist that enhances the overall enjoyment of your dessert table.
Lemonade: A chilled glass of tart lemonade refreshes the palate, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with its zesty brightness—perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Peach Bellini: This bubbly fruit cocktail brings a touch of elegance, making it a classy pairing that enhances the cookies’ sophisticated vibes at any gathering.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla on the side warms up the flavors of matcha, forming an indulgent dessert duo that feels like a special treat any day of the week.

Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select culinary-grade matcha powder?
When selecting matcha powder, look for a vibrant green color and a fine, silky texture. Culinary-grade matcha is typically less expensive than ceremonial-grade and is perfect for baking. Ensure the packaging indicates it’s food-safe, as some matcha varieties can be intended for whisking in tea only.

How should I store my Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies after baking?
Store your frosted Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for optimal freshness. If you prefer to keep them at room temperature, ensure the container is sealed and store for up to 3 days. Enjoy the delightful flavor as they meld together!

Can I freeze the Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, opt for unfrosted ones to preserve their texture. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze initially. Once they are hard, transfer them to a ziplock bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 1 month. Frost them right before serving for the best experience!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, a few factors might be at play. Ensure your butter was softened and not melted, as this can cause spreading. Also, chilling the dough for 20 minutes before baking is crucial. If your butter was too soft, consider chilling the completed dough before baking.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets with these cookies?
While the ingredients in these Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies are safe for human consumption, be cautious of feeding them to pets. Ingredients like chocolate (if substituted), high sugar content, and certain additives may not be healthy for animals. Always consult your vet for any specific dietary guidance regarding your pets.