Soft and Chewy Matcha Cookies: A Dreamy Green Delight
Matcha cookies are a delightful treat for any matcha enthusiast. But achieving the perfect texture can be tricky. Fear not! This recipe unlocks the secret to soft and chewy matcha cookies that are bursting with vibrant green color and captivating flavor.
What Makes Them Chewy?
The key to achieving a soft and chewy texture lies in the science behind baking. Here are the secrets to those melt-in-your-mouth cookies:
- Melted Butter: Unlike creamed butter, melted butter contributes to a chewier texture. The melted fat creates air pockets that expand during baking, resulting in a softer and less crumbly cookie.
- Egg Yolk: Adding an extra egg yolk compared to just the whole egg increases the chew factor. The yolk adds moisture and richness, leading to a softer and more tender cookie.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to chewiness due to its molasses content. Molasses attracts moisture and keeps the cookies soft and pliable.
- Cornstarch (Optional): A small amount of cornstarch can help achieve a slightly chewier texture by absorbing some of the moisture in the dough.
Matcha Magic: Choosing the Right Ingredient
Matcha powder is the star ingredient, so quality matters. Here's what to consider:
- Culinary Grade: Opt for culinary grade matcha, which is specifically meant for baking and has a vibrant green color and a pleasant, grassy flavor.
- Sieving: Before using, sift the matcha powder to remove any clumps and ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
The Recipe: Soft and Chewy Matcha Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (280 g)
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder (culinary grade)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (170 g or 6 oz)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar (100 g)
- 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup white chocolate chunks (or chips)
Instructions:
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure the matcha powder is evenly distributed.
- Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, cream together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the Eggs: Beat in the egg and egg yolk one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in the white chocolate chunks or chips using a spatula.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): While not mandatory, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the fat and contributes to a chewier texture.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly soft.
- Cool and Enjoy! Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- Measure Accurately: Using accurate measurements for both dry and wet ingredients is crucial for achieving the desired texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined, then stop.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking. Depending on your oven, the baking time may vary slightly. The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still slightly soft.
Variations:
- Matcha Frosting: Elevate your cookies with a delicious matcha frosting. You can find recipes online specifically designed for matcha.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of elegance, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies.
- Chopped Nuts: Add a nutty crunch by incorporating chopped almonds, walnuts, or pistachios into the dough.
With these tips and tricks, you'll be baking soft and chewy matcha cookies that are irresistible. The vibrant green color will be a delightful surprise, and the burst of matcha flavor will leave you wanting more.
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