The vibrant colors of these Neapolitan Matcha Cookies almost leap off the plate, but it’s the delightful fusion of flavors that truly captured my heart. Picture layers of creamy vanilla, earthy matcha, and sweet strawberry, each bite offering a whimsical escape from the ordinary. These cookies came to life during a relaxing afternoon spent experimenting with what I had on hand, and the result was nothing short of magic.
With their kaleidoscopic appeal and a taste that dances on your palate, these cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. Perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these easy-to-make delights bring a touch of elegance to cookie tins and dessert platters alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone craving a break from the fast food routine, this recipe promises to bring joy and flavor to your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create some unforgettable memories, one delicious cookie at a time!
Why are Neapolitan Matcha Cookies so special?
Colorful layers: The vibrant matcha, vanilla, and strawberry dough create a stunning visual masterpiece that will impress any guest.
Unique flavor blend: Sweet strawberry and earthy matcha harmonize beautifully for a delightful twist on classic cookies.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll be baking these flavorful layers in no time.
Great for sharing: Perfect for parties or treating friends, these cookies are sure to be a conversation starter.
Versatile option: You can easily customize colors and flavors—feel free to experiment with your favorite additions!
Each bite of these delightful cookies is a reminder that homemade sweets can be both beautiful and delicious.
Neapolitan Matcha Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup, to sweeten your cookies and create a light texture.
• Large egg – 1, which helps bind the dough together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, for that warm, comforting flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• All-purpose flour – 2.5 cups, the backbone of your dough, bringing structure to your cookies.
• Baking powder – 0.5 teaspoon, to help your cookies rise and stay soft.
• Salt – 0.25 teaspoon, enhancing the sweetness and balancing the flavors.
For the Flavor Layers
• Matcha powder – 1.5 tablespoons, which gives the green layer its vibrant color and earthy taste.
• Freeze-dried strawberry powder – 0.33 cup, infusing the cookies with fruity sweetness and a lovely pink hue.
• Pink food coloring – a couple of drops (optional), for those wanting a pop of color in the strawberry layer.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating delightful Neapolitan Matcha Cookies that will charm everyone who tries them!
How to Make Neapolitan Matcha Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release of your cookies later on.
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Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aeration creates a delightful texture in your cookies.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, blending them in well makes for a uniform dough that bursts with flavor.
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Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture, stirring just until the dough forms. It should be slightly sticky yet manageable.
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Divide the dough into three equal parts, making sure to use a scale or just eyeball it if you prefer. Each layer will have its unique flavor!
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Mix in 1.5 tablespoons of matcha powder to one portion of the dough until evenly colored. You want a vibrant green hue that reflects the earthy flavor.
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In another portion, mix in 0.33 cup of freeze-dried strawberry powder and the optional pink food coloring. This will give your cookies that sweet, fruity aroma and charming appearance.
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Leave the third portion plain for the vanilla layer, giving a well-rounded taste palette to your cookies.
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Roll each dough portion into a rectangular shape on a lightly floured surface. Aim for about ¼ inch thick; this helps with layering later.
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Layer the matcha, strawberry, and vanilla dough on top of one another, gently pressing them together so they bond. This creates the beautiful stripes you’ll see when baked.
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Refrigerate the layered block for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the dough, making it easier to slice.
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Slice the chilled dough into quarter-inch thick pieces, spacing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures even baking for all the cookies.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden brown. Watch closely, as you want the colors to stay vibrant!
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Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Optional: Drizzle with white chocolate for a decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Neapolitan Matcha Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps their chewy texture and fresh flavors intact.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Neapolitan Matcha Cookies Variations
Embrace the adventure of baking and let your creative spirit shine through! Each of these variations adds an exciting twist to your already delightful cookies.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly treat. You’ll still enjoy that wonderful texture without worry!
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. This makes it possible for everyone to enjoy these colorful cookies without any dairy.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pistachios, for an added crunch and unique flavor profile. The nutty goodness pairs beautifully with matcha and strawberry!
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Chocolate Chips: Add 1 cup of white or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that contrasts perfectly with the earthy matcha and tart strawberry. Chocolate lovers will adore this twist!
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Flavor Infusion: Replace vanilla extract with almond or hazelnut extract for a nutty aroma. This small change can elevate the cookie’s overall flavor impact.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for those who dare to be bold. This unexpected heat adds a fun surprise in each bite!
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Seasonal Spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a cozy, seasonal touch that complements the fruity layers. Perfect for autumn or winter gatherings!
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Citrusy Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a lovely citrus note. The bright flavors can enhance the overall freshness of your cookies.
With these variations, your Neapolitan Matcha Cookies can be uniquely yours! Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Neapolitan Matcha Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who love meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing each colored layer separately in the refrigerator (this helps maintain their vibrant hues). Simply layer the matcha, strawberry, and vanilla dough as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy, slice the chilled dough and bake as directed. For optimal freshness and flavor, bake these delightful cookies the same day you plan to serve them, ensuring they remain just as delicious as when they were first made!
What to Serve with Neapolitan Matcha Cookies?
Indulging in these vibrant cookies is just the start; let’s enhance your dessert experience with delightful pairings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the cookies’ flavors, creating a luscious ice cream sandwich experience. The creaminess balances the chewy texture of the cookies beautifully.
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Fresh Strawberries: Their natural sweetness and tartness bring out the fruity notes of the strawberry layer while adding a refreshing touch. Slice them up for a colorful garnish that elevates your dessert.
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Matcha Latte: This drink mirrors the cookie’s green layer, bringing a warm, earthy contrast that enhances the matcha flavor. Serve hot or iced for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Lemon Zest Drizzle: Add a pop of tangy brightness with a simple lemon glaze. The citrus cuts through the sweetness and complements the earthy notes.
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Chocolate Dipped Edges: For a decadent twist, dip the edges of each cookie in melted chocolate. The richness adds depth while balancing the lighter flavors.
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Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea harmonize with the cookies’ unique flavors, creating a warm and comforting pairing. This duo is perfect for a cozy gathering or an afternoon break.
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Nutty Trail Mix: Serve alongside a crunchy nut mix for a delightful textural contrast. The salty, crunchy elements balance the sweetness, making for a satisfying snack.
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Coconut Macaroons: Offering a chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor, these are perfect companions for your cookies, giving a tropical twist to your dessert platter.
Expert Tips for Neapolitan Matcha Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Use softened butter to ensure proper creaming with sugar, which contributes to a light cookie texture.
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Layering Technique: Gently press the layers together to avoid separation during baking; this will maintain the beautiful color strata.
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Chilling Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step; it firms up the dough, making the slicing process easier and helping cookies maintain their shape.
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Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the bake time; underbaking slightly will preserve the chewy texture while overbaking can dry them out.
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Customizing Flavors: Feel free to swap out matcha or strawberry powder for flavors you love; experimenting can lead to your own delicious twist on these Neapolitan Matcha Cookies!
Neapolitan Matcha Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for the freeze-dried strawberry powder?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are vibrant red in color, firm to the touch, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid any that have dark spots or mold. If you’re using fresh strawberries, slice them and dehydrate them at 135°F (57°C) until fully dried—a process that can take up to 24 hours, depending on moisture content.
How long can I store Neapolitan Matcha Cookies?
For room temperature storage, keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, they can be refrigerated for up to a week—just wrap them snugly to prevent drying out. Trust me, it’s best to keep them stored well!
Can I freeze Neapolitan Matcha Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your cookies! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven for that freshly baked taste!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If you find your dough is too sticky, try adding a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Just be gentle, as you don’t want to overwork the dough, which could affect the texture. Additionally, chilling the dough for longer can help make it easier to handle!
Are Neapolitan Matcha Cookies suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! These cookies contain gluten and dairy, so they may not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease or lactose intolerance. However, you can use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter alternatives to make a delightful version that caters to dietary restrictions. Always double-check your own ingredients for any allergens!
Can I add other flavors or colors to the layers?
Very! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and colors based on your preference. You could use cocoa powder for a chocolate layer, or even matcha in one layer and replace the strawberry with raspberry or cherry powder. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing these delightful Neapolitan Matcha Cookies!
Irresistible Neapolitan Matcha Cookies for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture, stirring just until the dough forms.
- Divide the dough into three equal parts.
- Mix in 1.5 tablespoons of matcha powder to one portion of the dough until evenly colored.
- In another portion, mix in 0.33 cup of freeze-dried strawberry powder and the optional pink food coloring.
- Leave the third portion plain for the vanilla layer.
- Roll each dough portion into a rectangular shape on a lightly floured surface, about ¼ inch thick.
- Layer the matcha, strawberry, and vanilla dough on top of one another, gently pressing them together.
- Refrigerate the layered block for about 30 minutes.
- Slice the chilled dough into quarter-inch thick pieces and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.