Pistachio Green Tea Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with matcha (green tea powder) and studded with crunchy pistachios. Delicately sweet, tender, and slightly earthy, they make a perfect treat for tea time, gifts, or festive occasions.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30–60 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: ~60–90 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp matcha green tea powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Cream butter & sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
2. Add flavorings
Mix in vanilla extract. Sift in flour, matcha powder, and salt. Fold until just combined.
3. Add pistachios
Gently fold in chopped pistachios. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
4. Shape & chill
Form dough into a log (~2 inches diameter) or roll out to ½-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate 30–60 minutes to firm up.
5. Preheat oven
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
6. Bake cookies
Slice chilled dough into ¼–½-inch thick rounds (or place cut shapes on tray). Bake 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool & serve
Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Use high-quality matcha for vibrant color and flavor
Chill the dough well to prevent spreading
Don’t overbake—cookies should be pale with just a hint of golden edges
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make them vegan?
Yes—replace butter with plant-based margarine and powdered sugar with coconut sugar or vegan alternative.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes—wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen (add 1–2 extra minutes).
Can I add more nuts?
Yes—almonds, cashews, or macadamias work beautifully.
Can I make them sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust powdered sugar slightly; these cookies are lightly sweet to balance earthy matcha.
Variations
White chocolate drizzle: Melt white chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies
Citrus twist: Add ½ tsp finely grated lemon or orange zest
Double pistachio: Sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top before baking
Matcha & cocoa swirl: Mix cocoa powder into half the dough for marbled effect
Nutritional Information
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 1 g