How do you know when shortbread cookies are done?

Shortbread cookies are done when the edges feel firm and the center is set but not browned. For matcha shortbread cookies , avoid waiting for golden edges. They should come out slightly soft in the middle—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. If they begin to brown, they’ve likely been in the oven too long.

Why do my matcha cookies turn brown?

Matcha is sensitive to heat. High oven temperatures or overbaking cause oxidation, which turns your green cookies brown or yellow. Bake your cookies at 325°F and avoid using dark baking sheets, which retain more heat. Always chill the dough before baking to help preserve the vibrant color.

Why did my shortbread cookies spread?

Spreading happens when the dough is too warm or contains too much butter. Always chill your cookie dough after shaping and use precise measurements. With matcha shortbread cookies , it’s especially important to maintain a firm dough so they keep their shape and don’t flatten during baking.

How do you keep shortbread cookies from crumbling?

If your cookies are too dry or crumble easily, you may have added too much flour or overbaked them. Use room-temperature butter, measure accurately, and avoid mixing the dough for too long. Let cookies cool completely on the tray to help them firm up without cracking or falling apart.

Matcha Shortbread Cookies: 5 Perfect Secrets

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ tablespoons matcha powder (culinary grade)
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

In a bowl, sift together the flour, matcha powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract if using.
Gradually add dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Smooth and vibrant green dough, ready to chill
Shape the dough into a log or flatten for cut-outs, then wrap in plastic wrap.
Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice or cut dough into desired shapes.
Place cookies on the baking sheet and chill for another 10–15 minutes.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are just set. Do not overbake.
Cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Use high-quality matcha powder to preserve color and flavor.
For added flavor, mix in white chocolate chips or chopped pistachios.
Always chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking.

Author: chef Nada
Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 1 hour chilling)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 45mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: matcha shortbread cookies, easy matcha cookie recipe, green tea cookies