Green apple-like cookies

Ingredients

Pastry

2 egg yolks
170 grams (6 ounces) sugar, plus a little for sprinkling
150 grams (5.3 ounces) butter
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon limoncello
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon matcha tea
350 grams (12.35 ounces) flour

Decoration

Carnation spices, to taste
Apple seeds

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Ensure you have various sizes to handle different ingredients separately. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best.
Electric Mixer
Perfect for whipping the butter and sugar to a fluffy texture. A hand mixer will also work if you don't have a stand mixer.
Baking Sheets
Use non-stick or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Spatula
Helpful for scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading dough evenly.
Rolling Pin
Crucial for rolling out the dough to the right thickness. If you can, use a wooden one.
Plastic Wrap and Aluminum Foil
These materials are essential for chilling the dough and maintaining its shape before baking.

Instructions

Step 1

Let's treat ourselves and our loved ones with homemade cookies! These cookies are truly delicious, and your family and friends will surely appreciate the effort. This recipe has been a favorite for about 7 years, making it a great opportunity to involve children in the cooking process. Here’s a fun and interesting idea for you!

Step 2

First, for the pastry, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. For a smoother cookie surface, consider using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar. Add the lemon zest and limoncello, then mix until combined.

Step 3

Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add them to the butter mixture to form a soft dough. Separate about one-quarter of the dough and knead the matcha tea into this portion until well combined. Avoid over-kneading to prevent the dough from becoming tough.

Step 4

Roll the plain dough into a cylinder. Roll out the matcha dough into a thin square between two layers of plastic wrap for easier handling. The size of the matcha dough should correspond to the length and diameter of the plain dough cylinder.

Step 5

Remove the top layer of plastic wrap from the matcha dough. Place the plain dough cylinder on top of the matcha dough and roll it up to envelop the plain dough in the matcha layer. Sprinkle some sugar on the remaining plastic wrap and roll the wrapped dough log in it. Wrap the dough log in foil and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 6

After chilling, take the dough log out of the refrigerator and cut it into discs about 1 to 1.5 cm (0.4 to 0.6 inches) thick. Slightly flatten each disc with your fingers. You can use a small jar or cup to press the discs evenly.

Step 7

To create an apple look, make two small indents on opposite sides of each disc. Stick a clove into each indent and press an apple seed into the center. You can also use melted chocolate to draw seeds if you prefer.

Step 8

Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden. Enjoy your delicious homemade cookies!

Servings

These charming cookies aren’t just pretty to look at; they're a flavor sensation begging to be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon tea or looking to add some excitement to a picnic, these cookies pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of matcha or a refreshing lemonade.

For special occasions, consider serving them on a decorative tiered platter alongside a selection of fresh fruits. The balance of the sweetness from the sugar and the subtle tartness from the lemon zest combined with the earthy notes of matcha makes them a perfect addition to any dessert collection.

If you’re feeling fancy, garnish your serving platter with edible flowers or a scattering of mint leaves. And don’t forget the kids! These cookies are excellent conversation starters and engaging treats for children’s parties – get them involved by letting them add their favorite decorations on top!

Variations

For gluten-free variations, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend compatible with baking. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free. Almond flour or coconut flour can add a different dimension in flavor, though they may alter the texture slightly.

To make these cookies vegan, replace the egg yolks with flax seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water per egg, let it sit for a few minutes). Substitute butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil, taking care to get the proportions right to avoid overly greasy dough. You can also use a splash of almond milk instead of Limoncello for a non-alcoholic touch while maintaining that nutty aroma.

Faq

What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
It's always best to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it in and ending up with too much flour.
Can I prepare the dough in advance and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
How can I make sure my cookies have a smooth surface?
Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar can help create a smoother surface on the cookies.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The cookies should be lightly golden on the edges. They may still be soft when you take them out, but they will firm up as they cool.
Can I use different spices for decoration?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a different flavor twist.
What if I don’t have Limoncello?
You can replace Limoncello with another citrus liqueur, or simply use a bit more lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for that tangy kick.