Save Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies infused with matcha green tea and filled with a tangy cranberry jam, perfect for afternoon tea or festive occasions.
I first baked these cookies for a holiday gathering and they were the star of the dessert table
Ingredients
- For the Shortbread Dough: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 2/3 cup (80 g) powdered sugar, 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp (12 g) matcha powder (culinary grade), 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Cranberry Jam: 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar, 2 tbsp (30 ml) water, 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry jam:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 8 10 minutes). Stir in lemon juice. Set aside to cool completely.
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix butter and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Form dough balls:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Create indentations:
- Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, press an indentation into the center of each ball.
- Fill cookies:
- Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of cooled cranberry jam.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save These cookies always bring my family together during the holidays, sparking memories of warmth and joy
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Pair with green tea or a light white wine.
Required Tools
Stand or hand mixer, Mixing bowls, Saucepan, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Wire rack, Measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (butter), Gluten (flour). May contain traces of nuts if processed in shared facilities Double-check ingredient labels if unsure.
Save Enjoy these vibrant and delicious cookies fresh for the best flavor and texture
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of matcha is best for vibrant color and flavor?
Ceremonial-grade matcha offers a deeper green color and delicate flavor, ideal for these shortbreads.
- → Can I substitute the cranberry jam with another fruit preserve?
Yes, raspberry or strawberry preserves make excellent alternatives, providing a similar tart-sweet balance.
- → How should these shortbreads be stored to maintain freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to retain texture and flavor.
- → What baking tools are essential for preparing these cookies?
A mixer, baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling are key for best results.
- → Are these shortbreads suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain dairy but no meat products, making them suitable for a vegetarian diet.