Matcha Cake is a vibrant, flavorful dessert that’s both eye-catching and delicious. Made with finely ground green tea powder, it offers a unique taste and a boost of antioxidants. Whether you’re a longtime matcha fan or trying it for the first time, this cake is sure to impress with its earthy flavor and striking green color.
Why We Love This Matcha Cake Recipe
There’s something undeniably exciting about a matcha cake. The enchanting matcha flavor offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, creating a complex taste that excites the palate. Unlike your standard cake, this recipe bridges tradition and modern cuisine, making each bite feel special. Besides its distinctive flavor, it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional sugary treats, thanks to the antioxidants found in matcha. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or enjoying it as a quiet afternoon snack, this matcha cake never fails to impress. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience.
Ingredients for Matcha Cake
To make this matcha cake delightful and memorable, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tablespoons matcha powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup buttermilk
For the Frosting:
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries (optional for garnish)
How to Make Matcha Cake Directions
Preparing a matcha cake is both engaging and rewarding. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking. Next, line the bottom of an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, which will help your cake come out smoothly post-baking. Don’t forget to lightly spray the exposed sides of the pan with cooking spray to avoid any sticky situations.
In a medium bowl, take your softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat these together until the mixture turns light and fluffy—this should take around 2-3 minutes. The lighter the batter, the fluffier your cake will be! Then, add in your eggs, one at a time. This helps to incorporate air and achieve a perfect texture. Now, mix in the vanilla extract and the matcha powder, creating a tantalizingly vibrant green batter.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. Gradually add half of this dry mixture to your butter mixture, stirring gently to combine. Once integrated, pour in the buttermilk. This ingredient will add moisture to your cake, preventing it from becoming dry. Finally, mix in the remaining flour mixture until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Now, pour the batter into your prepared pan and make sure it is evenly distributed. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 30 to 33 minutes. To check for doneness, simply insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is ready. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow your cake to cool completely before frosting.
While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, whip together the softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat these ingredients together until the frosting is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This frosting will add a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the earthy matcha flavor.
Once your cake has cooled completely, slice it in half, spread a generous amount of frosting between the layers, and stack them back together. You can then decorate the top with remaining buttercream, a dusting of powdered sugar, and some fresh strawberries if you desire. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing flavor to every bite. Lastly, it’s time to slice and serve your gorgeous matcha cake.
How to Serve Matcha Cake
Serving your matcha cake can be just as delightful as baking it. When it comes to presentation, consider using a decorative cake stand to show off your creation. You can serve it plain, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of ice cream perfectly complements the earthy notes of matcha, offering a satisfying balance.
If you’re hosting, consider placing some fresh strawberries on each plate for a pop of color and a refreshing taste. Pairing your matcha cake with a hot cup of green tea or chai can elevate the experience even further. The warmth of the tea will enhance the flavors in the cake, making it a comforting and appealing dish for both gatherings and quiet moments at home.
Expert Tips for Making Matcha Cake
Creating the perfect matcha cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Quality Matcha Matters: Choose high-quality culinary grade matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color. The fresher the matcha, the better your cake will taste.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This affects how well they blend together, leading to a better texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Once you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. This will help maintain the cake’s lightness.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so always check a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If a toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
- Experiment with Flavors: While the frosting recipe provided is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors. Consider adding a hint of almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist.
- Serve It Fresh: For the best flavors and textures, serve your matcha cake the same day it’s made. The longer it sits, the denser it may become.
How to Store Matcha Cake
If you find yourself with leftover matcha cake (though that’s unlikely!), proper storage is essential to keep it fresh. Allow your cake to cool completely before wrapping it. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to extend the lifespan, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Slice it into individual portions, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This will retain the cake’s texture, allowing you to enjoy a slice of matcha cake whenever a craving strikes!
Variations of Matcha Cake
While the classic matcha cake recipe is delightful on its own, feel free to get creative! Here are some variations to inspire you:
- Layered Matcha Cake: Make a tiered cake using multiple layers of matcha cake and various frostings, like cream cheese or even a chocolate ganache. This will create a stunning visual and flavor experience.
- Matcha and Lemon: Incorporate lemon zest and juice into the batter for a matcha cake that has a citrusy kick. The tanginess will contrast beautifully with the earthiness of matcha.
- Matcha Cupcakes: Transform the cake into cupcakes for a portable dessert option. Follow the same recipe, adjusting the baking time to approximately 18-20 minutes.
- Matcha Drizzle: Prepare a matcha glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little bit of matcha and milk. Drizzle it over the frosted cake for an added touch of sweetness.
- Fruit-Infused Matcha Cake: Add chopped fruits like raspberries or mangoes to the batter, infusing the cake with additional flavors and colors.
FAQ
What is matcha cake?
Matcha cake is a delightful dessert made with matcha powder, a finely ground green tea powder that adds a beautiful color and unique flavor profile. It’s often combined with ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour to create a moist and flavorful cake.
How does matcha cake taste?
Matcha cake has a distinct taste that combines the bitterness of green tea with the sweetness of the sugar. It’s aromatic and earthy, with a slightly grassy flavor that can be very refreshing and unique.
Can I make matcha cake in advance?
Yes, you can make matcha cake ahead of time. Just ensure that you store it properly in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It’s best enjoyed within a few days of baking.
What can I do with leftover matcha cake?
Leftover matcha cake can be enjoyed as a snack, served with ice cream, or even crumbled over yogurt. You can also make cake pops by mixing the leftover cake with frosting and rolling them into bite-sized balls.
How do I improve the color of my matcha cake?
Using high-quality matcha powder can enhance the color of your cake. Additionally, ensure that you’re mixing thoroughly but not overmixing, as this can affect the vibrancy.
Matcha Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 tablespoons matcha powder Use high-quality culinary grade for best flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup buttermilk Add moisture to the cake
For the Frosting
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries (optional for garnish) Adds visual appeal and flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line the bottom of an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the sides of the pan with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and matcha powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, then pour in the buttermilk, and finally mix in the remaining flour until just combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 33 minutes.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, whip together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Slice the cooled cake in half, spread frosting between the layers, and stack them back together.
- Decorate the top with remaining frosting and optional fresh strawberries.
Serving
- Serve the matcha cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair it with green tea or chai for an enhanced flavor experience.