Your Grandma’s Cookies Just Got Schooled by Matcha and Macadamia
If you’re looking for a unique twist on a classic cookie, these matcha and macadamia cookies might just become your new favorite. They’re crisp on the edges, chewy in the middle, and offer a beautiful balance of earthy, nutty, and sweet flavors. Even better, they’re surprisingly easy to make.
Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown green tea leaves, has long been praised for its antioxidants and distinctive umami-rich flavor. When combined with buttery macadamia nuts in a cookie, you get a treat that feels both comforting and refined.
Why Matcha and Macadamia?
The grassy, slightly bitter notes of matcha are a perfect match for the creamy richness of macadamia nuts. Unlike overly sugary cookies, this recipe leans into contrast—earthy meets buttery, subtle meets indulgent. Plus, the bright green color from the matcha gives these cookies a vibrant look that sets them apart from the usual cookie jar suspects.
Ingredients (Makes ~18 cookies)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tbsp culinary-grade matcha powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup chopped macadamia nuts
- Optional: ½ cup white chocolate chips for added sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. - Add Eggs:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and stir just until combined. - Fold in Nuts (and Chocolate, if using):
Gently mix in the chopped macadamia nuts and any optional white chocolate chips. - Scoop and Bake:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft. - Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Final Thoughts
These cookies are proof that gourmet flavor doesn’t have to mean complex technique. With just a few pantry staples and a scoop of good matcha, you can bake something that tastes like it came from a specialty café.
They pair beautifully with a cup of tea, make thoughtful gifts, and can even be frozen for a quick treat later on. Whether you’re already a matcha lover or just looking for a new cookie adventure, these matcha and macadamia cookies are sure to impress.
Would you like a printable recipe card or storage tips for keeping them fresh?