Pin It Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies infused with matcha green tea and filled with a tangy cranberry jam, perfect for afternoon tea or festive occasions.
I first served these cookies at a holiday gathering and they were a festive hit with friends and family eager for something unique.
Ingredients
- For the Shortbread Dough: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 2/3 cup (80 g) powdered sugar, 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp (12 g) matcha powder (culinary grade), 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Cranberry Jam: 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar, 2 tbsp (30 ml) water, 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry jam:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 8 10 minutes). Stir in lemon juice. Set aside to cool completely.
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix butter and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Form dough balls:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Create indentations:
- Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, press an indentation into the center of each ball.
- Fill with jam:
- Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of cooled cranberry jam.
- Bake cookies:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pin It These cookies are a favorite at family tea times, bringing everyone together over a warm cup and sweet treat.
Required Tools
Stand or hand mixer, mixing bowls, saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (butter), Gluten (flour). May contain traces of nuts if processed in shared facilities. Double-check ingredient labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Calories 110 per cookie. Total Fat 6 g. Carbohydrates 13 g. Protein 1 g.
Pin It Enjoy these vibrant green cookies fresh for best flavor and texture every time.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of matcha is best for these cookies?
Culinary-grade matcha works well, offering vibrant color and balanced flavor; ceremonial-grade matcha can enhance the green hue and provide a richer taste.
- → How is the cranberry filling prepared?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are simmered with sugar and water until thickened, then lemon juice is added to brighten the flavor before cooling.
- → Can the cranberry jam be substituted?
Yes, raspberry or strawberry preserves can be used as alternatives for a different fruity twist.
- → How should these cookies be stored?
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to five days.
- → What baking tools are recommended?
A mixer for the dough, mixing bowls, saucepan for the jam, baking sheet with parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling are essential.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, containing butter, flour, and natural fruit preserves.