Matcha Cookies

Matcha is made up of finely ground young green tea leaves, and it has a long list of evidence-based health benefits. 

1. Jitter-free energy: Unlike coffee, matcha tends to have little to no jitters or caffeine crash due to L-theanine, an amino acid that alters the effects of caffeine. L-theanine promotes alertness for six to eight hours, while also calming the nervous system. Japanese Zen monks have been using matcha for thousands of years to enhance their ability to concentrate and aid meditation. 

2. Mood boost: Medical studies have shown that matcha can help relieve Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

3. Increase metabolism: Studies have shown that matcha gives your metabolism a kick, increasing your calorie burn during workouts. It helps your mood which helps you get to the gym or yoga class. 

4. Brain and memory support: The combination of L-theanine and caffeine helps sharpen your memory and improve your focus. 

5. Antioxidants: Matcha has ten times the amount of antioxidants as regular green tea, making it one of the planet's best natural sources of antioxidants (the wonder compounds that help remove free radicals, stop cellular damage, and support overall wellness).

6. Manage cholesterol: Studies show that individuals who drink matcha regularly have lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.  

7. Support heart health: The combination of antioxidants, amino acids, and heart-disease-preventing vitamins and minerals make matcha good for your heart. 

It’s easy to make matcha at home and start reaping its health benefits. It tastes earthy and grassy and can be consumed as a cup of tea or as a latte; both are delicious hot or cold. Matcha is a tasty ingredient in baked goods. You can find matcha at many health food stores, larger markets like Whole Foods or Lund’s and at Costco. You will need a whisk or milk frother.  

Making Matcha Tea - Method 1

1. Add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and 2 ounces of hot water just under the boiling point to a bowl or cup

2. Whisk vigorously in a zig-zag motion until it is frothy

3. Add 4 - 6 ounces of hot water

4. Optional: Add your favorite milk and/or sweetener to taste

Making Matcha Tea - Method 2

1. Add 1 teaspoon matcha powder and 6 - 8 ounces of hot water to a jar and shake vigorously

2. Optional: Add your favorite milk and/or sweetener to taste

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Making Matcha Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

•  2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tablespoons matcha powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• ½ cup sugar 

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

• Sift dry ingredients together: flour, matcha, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. 

• Mix wet ingredients: in a separate bowl using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer, cream butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and cream some more. 

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.  Don't over-mix. 

• Using a scooper or tablespoon, make balls that are a bit smaller than 2 tablespoons. Roll them between your hands until smooth balls are formed.  Roll the balls in sugar and place onto the prepared cookie sheets. Leave 1 ½ - 2 inches between the cookies to allow them to spread. 

• Bake for 8 - 10 minutes.  The cookies will appear soft in the middle and slightly golden on the edges. Let the cookies rest for about 5 minutes on the cookie sheet, then transfer to a cooling rack. 

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Practice with Maureen

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