Paleo Matcha Almond Butter Cookies

Those cookies are made with only 5 ingredients (well, six if you count the tiny pinch of salt!) because when you’re craving a cookie that is both indulgent and nourishing, simplicity is key. These matcha almond butter cookies are definitely a wholesome treat. With their soft texture, earthy matcha flavor, and natural sweetness, they’re a satisfying choice for dessert or a mid-day pick-me-up. Plus, they’re quick to make and packed with good-for-you ingredients. 

Naturally gluten-free, grain-free, they are easily customizable. Dare I say, that they are the perfect solution to a healthy treat or great gift for friends. Who doesn’t love received a home made box of cookies?

Desserts and restrictive diets

Finding desserts or baking options that align with restrictive diets like keto, paleo, or gluten-free can be a real challenge. Many recipes rely heavily on ingredients like refined sugars, dairy, or grains, which are often off-limits. These matcha almond butter cookies offer a delicious solution that fits easily into these diets without sacrificing flavor or texture. With simple, nourishing ingredients, they prove that enjoying a snack while staying true to your dietary goals is absolutely possible. 

This recipe uses raw honey, but if you’re avoiding sugar altogether, substitute erythritol for a sweet taste without the impact of refined sugar.

How Matcha elevates treats

Matcha has gained a world-wide popularity in recent years, especially in lattes, but it has been a very well known ingredient in Japan for centuries. While we are familiar with green tea, which is made by steeping dried leaves in hot water, matcha is a bright green, finely ground powder made from whole tea leaves that are mixed directly with water or milk. Although both come from the same plant, they are grown and processed differently.

Beyond its stunning bright green color, matcha offers numerous health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and provides a gentle energy boost thanks to its caffeine content. Incorporating matcha into baked-goods not only adds a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with almonds but also elevates the nutritional value.

When choosing matcha, always opt for high-quality products. Vibrant, bright green powder indicates freshness and purity. Avoid dull green powders or pre-mixed versions often containing added sugars or milk powders which we try to avoid in this case. For this recipe, use culinary-grade matcha specifically designed for baking.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

1. Rich in Nutrients: Almond butter and almond flour are packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, making these cookies both satisfying and nutritious.
2. Matcha Boost: Matcha powder provides a natural energy boost and is loaded with antioxidants, giving these cookies a unique green hue and earthy flavor.
3. Diet-Friendly: Whether you’re following a paleo or keto diet, these cookies are easily adaptable. Sweeten them with honey for paleo or erythritol for keto.
4. Quick & Easy: With just one bowl and a handful of ingredients, these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.

Suitable Diets

• Paleo-Friendly: Use raw honey as the sweetener to keep these cookies paleo-compliant.
• Keto-Friendly: Swap honey for erythritol to keep the net carbs low.
• Gluten-Free & Grain-Free: Almond flour ensures these cookies are naturally gluten-free and grain-free. You could also use a different kind of nut flour and butter, like hazelnut for example. Just check the consistency of the batter adding a bit of water or more nut flour.
• Dairy-Free: No problem—there’s no butter or milk involved in this recipe!

How to Customize

Want to switch things up? Try these variations:

• Turmeric Almond Butter Cookies: Swap matcha powder for turmeric to create vibrant yellow cookies with a slightly spicy, earthy flavor. Add a dash of cinnamon or powder ginger for a warm twist.
• Strawberry Almond Butter Cookies: Use strawberry powder for a pink version that’s sweet and fruity—perfect for kids or special occasions.
• Chocolate Matcha Swirl: Mix in a small amount of cocoa powder in half of the batter for a marbled effect and a delicious combination of earthy and rich flavors.

Tips for Perfect keto and paleo cookies

• You can find some almond butter made with peeled almonds which makes it lighter in color. This allows the bright green of the matcha to shine even more. 
• You can actually obtain almond flour and almond butter at home by simply grounding whole almonds in a powerful blender. Roast them before hand for a more powerful nutty flavor.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels sticky, chilling it for 10 minutes makes it easier to shape.
• Depending on the brand of your almond butter, the texture of the batter might vary slightly if you find the batter too tick and crumbly, you can add one or two teaspoon of water before mixing again. 
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies firm up as they cool, so take them out of the oven when the edges are just lightly golden. Don’t let them color too much, you want to keep the beautiful and vibrant green color as well as the soft texture inside. 
• Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month.