Have You Ever Seen a Cookie That Looks Like a Chessboard?
What if I told you there’s a cookie that isn’t just a treat, but a piece of edible art? Something that catches your eye before it even reaches your taste buds? Meet the Matcha Checkerboard Cookies (披茶アイスボックスクッキー) a delicious twist on a traditional icebox cookie that brings both flavor and flair to your kitchen. If you’re a fan of matcha-based desserts, don’t miss our Japanese Strawberry Matcha Boba Recipe it’s the perfect refreshing drink to pair with your Matcha Checkerboard Cookies.
What Makes Matcha Checkerboard Cookies Special?
These cookies Matcha Checkerboard Cookies are more than a sweet snack. They are a form of expression, combining the bold green of 抹茶 (matcha) with a subtle vanilla base. They reflect the Japanese principle of “wabi-sabi” finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection. This recipe brings a calm rhythm to baking, requiring some precision and care but rewarding the effort with beautiful and flavorful results.
Time Required: Approximately 2 hours, including chilling time.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate.
🌸Table of Contents
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies 抹茶アイスボックスクッキー
What Are Matcha Checkerboard Cookies?
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies are classic icebox cookies, known in Japan as アイスボックスクッキー. The dough is chilled, then sliced, producing neat cookies with alternating squares of green matcha and creamy vanilla. Their crisp edges and tender bite make them ideal for serving with hot 茶 (cha, tea) or presenting as elegant omiyage (お土産, gift).
The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of matcha balances the sweetness of the cookie, creating harmony in each bite. This balance is an important concept in Japanese cuisine, called 和 (wa), meaning harmony.
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies @JapanDishes
Ingredients and Their Roles
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups + 2 tbsp gluten-free flour (approximately 240g)
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted vegan butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 tsp unsweetened milk (e.g., soy or almond)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Flavor:
- 2 tbsp matcha powder (culinary grade)
Optional:
- Sanding sugar for finishing
Ingredient Notes:
- Gluten-Free Flour: Maintains texture while being accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
- Arrowroot Starch: Enhances softness and helps bind ingredients.
- Matcha Powder: Offers a vibrant green hue and an umami-rich flavor profile. Culinary-grade matcha is perfect for baking.
- Vegan Butter: Keeps the recipe plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
Substitutions:
- Use regular all-purpose flour if gluten-free isn’t needed.
- Butter or plant-based margarine can replace vegan butter.
- If matcha isn’t available, try unsweetened cocoa powder or instant espresso for a unique twist.
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
Start by whisking together flour, starch, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, use a stand mixer or electric mixer to cream the softened vegan butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This process, known in Japanese baking as クリーム状 (kurīmu-jō), is essential for incorporating air into the dough.
Add the vanilla extract and plant-based milk, mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until combined.
Split the dough in half. To one half, mix in the matcha powder until the color is evenly distributed. You now have two doughs: matcha and vanilla.
2. Shape and Chill the Dough
Form each half into a rectangular log approximately 2 inches tall and 6 inches long. Use your hands and a flat tool such as a bench scraper or pastry cutter to help create sharp corners and smooth sides. Wrap each log in plastic wrap or wax paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for firming the dough and making it easier to slice evenly later.
3. Slice Into Strips
After chilling, unwrap each log. Using a sharp knife and a ruler for accuracy, slice each rectangle lengthwise into three equal parts. Then, turn those three slices on their side and cut again into thirds, resulting in nine strips from each dough.
4. Build the Checkerboard Pattern
Begin assembling by alternating strips:
- Bottom layer: matcha, vanilla, matcha
- Middle layer: vanilla, matcha, vanilla
- Top layer: matcha, vanilla, matcha
Press the strips together gently but firmly to form a compact block. Wrap and chill again for at least 30 minutes.
Secrets to Success
Chill the Dough: Cold dough helps maintain clean lines and sharp corners. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Uniform Strips: Use a ruler or a piece of cardboard as a guide when cutting strips. Consistent sizing is the key to the checkerboard look.
Alternative Flavors: If matcha is not to your taste, cocoa powder or instant coffee powder can offer flavorful substitutes. They will still create a visually stunning contrast.
Final Assembly and Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.
Slice the chilled checkerboard log into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Arrange them with space between each on the baking sheet. Bake for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. During this cooling time, the cookies will firm up and develop their final texture.
Hana’s Recipe Tips
- Keep your knife clean while slicing to preserve sharp lines.
- If you notice the dough getting too soft while assembling, return it to the fridge.
- Want a decorative finish? Lightly brush the log with plant-based milk and roll it in sanding sugar before slicing.
- Package cooled cookies in washi paper or simple craft boxes for a Japanese-style homemade gift.
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies @JapanDishes
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Unbaked Dough: Wrap and freeze the assembled dough block for up to 2 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen.
- Baked Cookies: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Baked cookies can also be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature.
Variations on the Recipe
- Three-Layer Flavor: Add a third dough using cocoa powder to create a triple-color effect.
- Sakura-Inspired: Replace vanilla extract with cherry blossom extract and add a drop of pink coloring to create a spring-themed cookie.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or yuzu zest for a Japanese citrus twist.
- Geometric Fun: Try creating striped or spiral patterns instead of a checkerboard for a modern take.
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies 抹茶アイスボックスクッキー
Course: Dessert, SnacksCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy24 cookies
servings30
minutes12
minutes95
kcalThese eye-catching Matcha Checkerboard Cookies are a delightful combination of rich vanilla and earthy matcha flavors. Crafted with precision, these slice-and-bake cookies reveal a stunning green-and-white checker pattern that makes them as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for gifting or pairing with afternoon tea.
Ingredients
1½ cups + 2 tbsp gluten-free flour (approx. 240g)
1 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted vegan butter, softened
½ cup sugar
4 tsp unsweetened plant milk (e.g., almond or soy)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp matcha powder (culinary grade preferred)
Sanding sugar (optional, for rolling)
Directions
- Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, starch, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the vanilla and milk, mixing until smooth. Gradually blend in the dry mixture until dough forms. - Split and Flavor
Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain. Mix the matcha powder into the other half until the green color is consistent. - Shape and Chill
Form each dough half into a rectangle about 2 inches high and 6 inches long. Smooth the edges using your hands or a bench scraper. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. - Slice into Strips
Cut each chilled block lengthwise into three strips. Turn the pieces and cut into thirds again, making nine even strips from each flavor. - Assemble the Checkerboard
Layer the strips in alternating colors to form a 3×3 grid. For example:
Bottom: matcha, vanilla, matcha
Middle: vanilla, matcha, vanilla
Top: matcha, vanilla, matcha
Gently press the dough into a single block and chill again for 30 minutes. - Slice and Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice the block into ¼-inch thick cookies. Place on a lined baking tray and bake for 11–12 minutes. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Keep dough chilled during all stages for best results.
Use a ruler when slicing to keep the checker pattern clean.
You can freeze unbaked dough for up to 2 months.
For variation, substitute matcha with cocoa powder or coffee for a different look and flavor.
Conclusion
Matcha Checkerboard Cookies are a beautiful blend of Japanese flavor and Western baking technique. They require attention to detail and a little patience, but the result is a cookie that delights the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re preparing for a tea party, a seasonal gathering, or just want to explore the art of baking, this recipe Matcha Checkerboard Cookies offers a creative and flavorful project.
Remember the Japanese phrase 手作り (tezukuri), meaning handmade with care. These cookies are just that an expression of creativity, culture, and craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use dairy-based butter and milk?
A: Yes, the recipe is adaptable. Just be sure to chill the dough well.
Q: What grade of matcha should I use?
A: Culinary grade is best for baking. It balances cost and flavor.
Q: How do I keep the checkerboard design neat?
A: Measure carefully, use a ruler, and chill frequently during the process.
Q: Are these cookies suitable for kids?
A: Yes, children can help assemble the checkerboard. Adult supervision is needed for slicing and baking.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Slightly, but too little sugar may affect texture. Try using coconut sugar as a natural alternative.
Enjoy baking, and take pride in each square of these delicious Matcha Checkerboard Cookies. Each one is a moment of calm and creativity from your kitchen.
Love all things Japanese? After baking your Matcha Checkerboard Cookies, explore Japan’s culture through art by checking out teamLab Borderless one of Tokyo’s most mesmerizing digital museums.
