30-Minute Strawberry Matcha Neapolitan Cookies – A Colorful Bakery-Style Treat
There’s something undeniably joyful about a cookie that looks just as good as it tastes, and these 30-Minute Strawberry Matcha Neapolitan Cookies are exactly that kind of dessert. Inspired by the classic Neapolitan flavor trio, these cookies bring together sweet strawberry, creamy vanilla, and earthy matcha in one thick, soft, bakery-style cookie. Every bite delivers a different note, yet the flavors work together in perfect harmony.
What makes these cookies especially irresistible is how quickly they come together. In just 30 minutes, you can go from pantry staples to a tray of warm, colorful cookies cooling on your counter. No chilling, no complicated techniques, and no special equipment required. That makes this recipe ideal for last-minute cravings, weekend baking sessions, or when you want something impressive without spending all day in the kitchen.
The strawberry layer is naturally flavored using freeze-dried strawberries, which provide a concentrated fruitiness without adding excess moisture. The vanilla layer keeps everything balanced and familiar, while the matcha layer adds a subtle bitterness and depth that elevates the entire cookie. Together, they create a cookie that feels playful yet refined, bold yet comforting.
These cookies aren’t just a treat—they’re a conversation starter. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to friends, or simply treating yourself, strawberry matcha Neapolitan cookies stand out on any dessert table. Their soft centers, lightly crisp edges, and vibrant colors make them as satisfying to look at as they are to eat.
Because the dough is divided and flavored separately, this recipe also invites creativity. You can swirl the doughs together for a marbled look, stack them for defined layers, or slightly twist them for a rustic bakery finish. No two cookies need to look exactly the same, which only adds to their charm.
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 tablespoon milk (for matcha dough, if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough evenly into three separate bowls.
- In the first bowl, mix in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries until the dough turns pink and fragrant.
- Leave the second bowl plain to serve as the vanilla layer.
- In the third bowl, mix in matcha powder. Add milk if needed to keep the dough soft.
- Take a small scoop from each dough and gently press them together to form one large tri-color cookie dough ball.
- Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2½ inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
30-Minute Strawberry Matcha Neapolitan Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare cookie dough and divide into three portions.
- Flavor one portion with strawberries, one with matcha, and leave one vanilla.
- Form tri-color dough balls and place on baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until edges are set.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use high-quality matcha for better color and flavor.
- Crush freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder for even distribution.
- Slightly underbake for soft, chewy centers.
- For cleaner layers, stack dough portions instead of twisting.
Variations
- Chocolate Neapolitan: Add cocoa powder instead of matcha.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and an egg substitute.
- Extra Sweet: Add white chocolate chips to the vanilla layer.
- Swirled Cookies: Twist the doughs together for a marbled effect.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with milk, strawberry lattes, or matcha tea. They’re perfect for dessert platters, afternoon tea, or as a colorful addition to holiday cookie boxes.
Storage Information
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature.
FAQ
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- Do I need food coloring? No, the natural ingredients provide color.
- Why freeze-dried strawberries? They give intense flavor without excess moisture.
History / Fun Facts
Neapolitan desserts originated from the classic Italian ice cream trio, traditionally featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Modern bakers have reimagined this concept in countless ways, and these strawberry matcha Neapolitan cookies are a contemporary twist that blends global flavors into one visually stunning treat.
