Save Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies infused with matcha green tea and filled with a tangy cranberry jam, perfect for afternoon tea or festive occasions.
This recipe has become a festive favorite in my family especially for afternoon tea gatherings, where the unique fusion of Japanese flavors and traditional shortbread delights everyone.
Ingredients
- For the Shortbread Dough: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter coated, 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 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 to 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 Cookies:
- 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 With Jam:
- Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of cooled cranberry jam.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13 to 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 Making these cookies is a cherished activity where the whole family enjoys shaping and filling each cookie, creating sweet memories together.
Required Tools
Stand or hand mixer, mixing bowls, saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter) and gluten (flour). May contain traces of nuts if processed in shared facilities. Double-check ingredient labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110 per cookie, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 1 g
Save These cookies bring together unique flavors in a simple shortbread, perfect for sharing or gifting during festive occasions.
Kitchen Questions
- → What matcha grade is best to use?
Culinary-grade matcha works well for a balanced flavor, but ceremonial-grade matcha can be used for a deeper green color and finer taste.
- → Can I substitute cranberries with other fruits?
Yes, raspberry or strawberry preserves can replace cranberry jam for a different fruity twist.
- → How should the dough be prepared for baking?
Mix softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy, then incorporate dry ingredients. Shape into balls, create an indentation, and fill with cooled cranberry jam before baking.
- → What is the best way to store these shortbread bites?
Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to five days.
- → Which beverages pair well with these cookies?
Green tea or a light white wine complement the earthy matcha and tart cranberry flavors beautifully.