Ever bite into a cookie that feels like pure luxury? That’s exactly what these Ultimate Matcha Pistachio Shortbread Cookies deliver. A buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with earthy matcha and nutty pistachios—pure magic! 🍵✨
Last weekend, I whipped up a batch for a cozy afternoon tea, and let’s just say they disappeared before the kettle even cooled. Bonus? They’re ridiculously easy to make, yet look like something straight from a bakery window. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging solo!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Stunning presentation: The vibrant green of matcha paired with golden pistachios is so eye-catching.
- Easy to make: Only a few simple steps for bakery-quality cookies.
- Customizable: Swap out nuts or tweak the sweetness to suit your taste.
Whether you’re a matcha lover or just looking for a unique dessert, this recipe is bound to be your new favorite. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients (and Substitutions)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (swap for vegan butter if needed!)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (use almond flour for a gluten-free version)
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder (culinary grade gives the best color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (or try almonds or hazelnuts)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: White chocolate drizzle for extra flair
Pro Tip: Use fresh, high-quality matcha powder for the brightest green and boldest flavor. Cheap matcha can taste bitter!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by softening your butter to room temperature. Cream it with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
2. Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the flour, matcha powder, and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped pistachios for that delicious crunch.
3. Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
4. Roll and Cut
Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use cookie cutters or a knife to shape into rounds, squares, or your favorite design.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12-15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden.
6. Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool completely before adding an optional drizzle of melted white chocolate for a Pinterest-perfect finish.
Pro Tips and Variations
- For extra matcha flavor: Dust cooled cookies with a sprinkle of matcha powder.
- Feeling festive? Add dried cranberries for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Make ahead: Freeze the dough for up to 3 months to whip up cookies anytime.
Pin-worthy Tip: Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board with a steaming cup of matcha latte for a photo that’s Pinterest gold. Don’t forget a sprinkle of pistachios for contrast!
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These cookies pair beautifully with green tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. Serve them at holiday gatherings, bridal showers, or cozy afternoons at home.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Want to keep them longer? Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Pinterest-Friendly Styling Tips
- Use natural lighting when photographing—the green matcha color pops beautifully!
- Stack cookies with a linen napkin underneath for a warm, inviting vibe.
- Include props like a whisk, matcha bowl, or pistachio shells for extra visual interest.
Don’t forget to pin and share! Tag your cookie creations with #MatchaPistachioLove on Pinterest and Instagram to show off your baking skills. 🍪✨
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious.
What’s the best matcha powder to use?
Culinary-grade matcha is ideal for baking—it has a vibrant green color and balanced flavor. Avoid lower-quality matcha, as it can be bitter.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.
Ready to bake these beauties? Save this recipe to your Pinterest board and let the matcha magic begin! 🌿