Matcha Snowball Cookies

Matcha Snowball Cookies are a delightful and healthy treat that combines the unique flavor of matcha with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are not only delicious but also a great low-calorie option that can fit into your healthy eating plan. They’re perfect for meal prep and can satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt. So, let’s dive into making these tasty Matcha Snowball Cookies, which are also high in protein and gluten-free!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Matcha Snowball Cookies

These Matcha Snowball Cookies are a fantastic choice for those looking for a healthier dessert option. They are gentle on your waistline and are made with wholesome ingredients that contribute to overall health. With their subtle green tea flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are not just tasty but also a great way to incorporate matcha into your diet. Plus, since they are gluten-free and low in calories, they are suitable for many dietary restrictions. Enjoy these cookies as a part of your weight loss journey or as a healthy snack throughout the day!

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Equipment 1: Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer

A stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes mixing the ingredients easy and ensures a smooth dough. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer works well too.

Equipment 2: Parchment Paper

Parchment paper is essential for lining your baking tray. It prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Equipment 3: Baking Tray

A baking tray is needed to hold the cookies while they bake in the oven.

Equipment 4: Plastic Wrap

Plastic wrap is used to cover the dough while it chills in the fridge, helping it to firm up before baking.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredient 1: 3 tbsp + 1 tsp (50 g) Butter

Butter adds richness to the cookies and helps them achieve a tender, crumbly texture. Using a lighter option, like unsalted butter, can help manage salt content.

Ingredient 2: 3 tbsp (20 g) Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar sweetens the cookies and gives them a soft, delicate finish.

Ingredient 3: 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract enhances the flavor and aroma of the cookies, balancing the earthiness of the matcha.

Ingredient 4: Pinch of Salt (if using unsalted butter)

A pinch of salt brings out all the flavors of the ingredients, making the cookies taste more vibrant.

Ingredient 5: 1 tbsp (8 g) Milk Powder (optional)

Adding milk powder can enhance creaminess. It also adds a bit of protein to the cookies.

Ingredient 6: 3 tbsp + 1 tsp (25 g) Almond Flour

Almond flour is gluten-free and adds healthy fats and protein, making these cookies a healthier option compared to traditional flour.

Ingredient 7: 1 tsp (5 g) Matcha Powder

Matcha powder gives the cookies their vibrant green color and is rich in antioxidants. It also contributes to a variety of health benefits, including boosting metabolism.

Ingredient 8: 1/2 cup (60 g) Cake Flour

Cake flour gives the cookies a lighter texture. Combined with almond flour, it helps to keep these cookies tender.

this Recipe

HOW TO MAKE Matcha Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by adding the butter to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a medium bowl with a hand mixer). Beat the butter on medium speed (KitchenAid setting 4) for about 1 minute until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Add the Sweetness

Next, add the powdered sugar and continue mixing on medium speed. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. The powdered sugar will give the cookies a nice sweetness without being too overpowering.

Step 3: Infuse Flavor

Now, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter). Beat the mixture until smooth. The addition of vanilla is key to enhancing the flavor profile of the cookies, balancing the matcha’s earthiness.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the milk powder, almond flour, cake flour, and matcha powder to the bowl. Mix on low speed for a few seconds, then gradually increase to medium speed. Continue mixing until the dough is no longer powdery and everything is evenly combined, and the dough should come together when pinched.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is important as it helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents spreading during baking. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 weeks if you want to prepare it ahead of time.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Remove the dough from the fridge. Cut it into 12 equal pieces, approximately 14 g each. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray. This step ensures even baking and uniform size for all cookies.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F (170°C/338°F convection). Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes or until the bottoms are just lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Step 8: Finish and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the tray for about 10 minutes. While they are still warm, place powdered sugar into a bag or bowl and gently shake to coat the cookies evenly. Finally, let them cool completely before serving and enjoy your tasty Matcha Snowball Cookies!

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge or freezer.
• Meal Prep: The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for a quick treat.
• Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts or using different gluten-free flours based on your dietary needs.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve these cookies with a cup of green tea for a complete experience.

Matcha Snowball Cookies FAQ

Can Matcha Snowball Cookies fit into a diabetic-friendly diet?

Yes, these cookies can be suited for a diabetic-friendly diet by controlling the portion sizes and enjoying them as an occasional treat, especially since they are lower in calories and sugar compared to traditional cookies.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

To make these cookies even healthier, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar used or swap in a sugar substitute that fits your dietary needs. Additionally, incorporating more almond flour can increase the protein content.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Matcha Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Can I use other gluten-free flours instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can replace almond flour with any other gluten-free flour like coconut flour or oat flour. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture and flavor, so adjust accordingly.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, these Matcha Snowball Cookies are a delicious and healthy dessert option that brings the unique flavor of matcha into a classic cookie. They are perfect for meal prep and can fit into a variety of diets, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter treat without sacrificing flavor. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences or any fun variations you created. Enjoy your healthy baking!

Matcha Snowball Cookies

Delightful and healthy matcha cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for meal prep and satisfying sweet cravings without guilt.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Healthy, Japanese

Calories: 45

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 3 tbsp + 1 tsp Butter Using unsalted butter can help manage salt content.
• 3 tbsp Powdered Sugar Sweetens the cookies and gives them a delicate finish.
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor and aroma.
• Pinch Salt Only if using unsalted butter.
• 1 tbsp Milk Powder (optional) Enhances creaminess and adds protein.
• 3 tbsp + 1 tsp Almond Flour Gluten-free, adds healthy fats and protein.
• 1 tsp Matcha Powder Rich in antioxidants, gives vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup Cake Flour Provides a lighter texture.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Add the butter to a stand mixer and beat on medium speed for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and mix on medium speed until well combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat until smooth.
4. Add the milk powder, almond flour, cake flour, and matcha powder, mixing until evenly combined.
5. Gather the dough into a ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll into balls, and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.
7. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes.
8. Let cool on the tray for about 10 minutes, then coat with powdered sugar.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness. Dough can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 weeks.