Matcha Cake
The first time I made this Matcha Cake, I was captivated by its vibrant green color and rich, earthy aroma. It was a cozy afternoon, and I had just returned from a local bakery where I had discovered the wonders of matcha. Inspired, I decided to experiment in my own kitchen. This cake quickly became a favorite, not just for its unique flavor but also for its delightful texture. It’s the perfect dessert to share with friends or enjoy with a warm cup of tea. Each bite brings a sense of calm and happiness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. I can still remember the smiles on my friends’ faces when they took their first bites. The Matcha Cake was an instant hit!
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
25 mins
35 mins
Medium
275 kcal
3g g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12g g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl
The Magic of This Matcha Cake
Unique Flavor Profile
What I love most about this recipe is how the matcha powder infuses the cake with a subtle, yet distinct flavor. Unlike conventional cakes, the taste of matcha adds an intriguing twist that makes every bite memorable. It’s a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness that keeps you coming back for more.
Beautiful Presentation
The vibrant green color of the Matcha Cake is visually stunning. It’s a cake that commands attention, making it an excellent centerpiece for any gathering or celebration. When frosted and garnished with fresh strawberries, it transforms into a work of art that will impress your guests.
Simple Ingredients
This recipe is straightforward and utilizes ingredients that are often found in most kitchens. The combination of unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and eggs provides a deliciously rich base, while the all-purpose flour ensures a light texture. It’s the perfect recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile for Any Occasion
The Matcha Cake is versatile enough to be served on various occasions, from birthdays to casual weekday treats. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging yourself, this cake fits the bill beautifully.
Delicious Frosting
Don’t forget the frosting! The combination of unsalted butter and powdered sugar creates a creamy, fluffy topping that compliments the earthy tones of the cake perfectly. It’s this finishing touch that takes the Matcha Cake from good to absolutely divine.
Easy to Bake
Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious cake that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. The process is fun and engaging, making it a great activity to do with family or friends.
Recipe Ingredients for Matcha Cake
When it comes to baking the perfect Matcha Cake, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, making this cake a delightful treat. The star ingredient, matcha powder, is what sets this cake apart, giving it not only flavor but also its stunning color. The harmony of buttermilk for moisture, unsalted butter for richness, and the perfect balance of flour and baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture that beautifully showcases the matcha flavor.
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 5 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened, for frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, for frosting
- 1 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries, optional, for garnish
How to Assemble Matcha Cake
Making the Matcha Cake is a delightful experience, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you. Each phase of the process is simple and rewarding. By carefully following these instructions, you’ll be able to bake a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Let’s dive in!
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the exposed sides. This ensures that your cake doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out effortlessly once baked.
- In a medium bowl, beat the unsalted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer. You want to mix this until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. The air that gets incorporated at this stage will help your cake rise beautifully.
- Add in the eggs, matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; you want the batter to be smooth, but some lumps are completely fine.
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Sifting helps to aerate the flour, which contributes to the cake’s light texture. Gradually add half of this mixture to the wet ingredients, and stir gently.
- Now, mix in the buttermilk followed by the remaining flour mixture. Again, stir gently until just combined without overmixing. You should see a beautiful green batter forming!
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan. Make sure to spread it evenly; this helps the cake bake uniformly. Place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end; every oven is a bit different!
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial; it allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove.
- Gently run a knife along the edges and lift the cake out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
- For the frosting, beat the remaining unsalted butter with the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy. This will create a creamy, delicious topping for your cake.
- Slice the cooled cake in half to create two rectangular pieces. Spread a layer of frosting between them, and then use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides if there’s enough. Garnish with fresh strawberries if you like. This will not only add beauty but also a refreshing flavor contrast.
Things Worth Knowing
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated before you put the cake in. An oven that’s too cool can cause the cake to bake unevenly.
- Cooling Time: Let the cake cool completely before frosting it. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Matcha Quality: Use high-quality matcha for the best flavor. The better the matcha, the richer the taste and color of your cake.
- Frosting Thickness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the thickness of the frosting. If you want a lighter cake, use less frosting.
Ways to Customize
There are so many fun ways to put your own spin on this Matcha Cake. Whether you want to add flavors or adjust the appearance, it’s a versatile recipe that you can truly make your own!
- Add Citrus: Incorporate some lemon zest or orange zest in the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with matcha.
- Nutty Twists: Add some finely chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate on top of the frosting can create an indulgent treat.
- Alternate Frostings: Experiment with different frostings, such as cream cheese frosting or whipped cream, to create a unique taste.
- Layered Cake: For special occasions, consider making it a layered cake by doubling the recipe and stacking the layers with frosting in between.
- Flavored Buttercream: You can also infuse the frosting with different flavors, such as almond or coconut, to create a unique profile.
- Decorations: Get creative with decorations! Edible flowers or fresh fruit can elevate the look and taste.
Pairing Suggestions for Matcha Cake
When it comes to serving your Matcha Cake, think about what complements its flavor and makes the experience even more enjoyable. You’ll want to consider everything from beverages to side dishes that can enhance this delightful treat.
- Tea Pairing: This cake pairs exceptionally well with a warm cup of green tea. The flavors harmonize beautifully, enhancing the matcha experience.
- Coffee Friends: If you’re a coffee lover, serving it with a light roast can also be a great match, adding a rich contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Fresh Fruits: Consider serving it with a side of fresh fruits, like berries or slices of citrus, which provide a refreshing balance to the cake.
- Nutty Snacks: A handful of roasted nuts can add a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s softness.
- Occasions: This cake is perfect for afternoon tea, birthdays, or even as a delightful dessert for a dinner party.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. It can also be refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Warm it Up: For an extra special treat, warm a slice of cake in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Matcha Cake stands out not only for its exquisite taste but also for its vibrant color and simplicity in preparation. It’s a delightful dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any table. I encourage you to try making this cake and share the experience with your loved ones. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a quiet afternoon treat, this recipe promises to deliver joy in every bite!
Matcha Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the exposed sides.
- Next, in a medium bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the eggs, matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Add half of this mixture to the wet ingredients, and stir gently.
- Then, mix in the buttermilk followed by the remaining flour mixture. Stir until just combined without overmixing.
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then gently run a knife along the edges and lift the cake out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened unsalted butter with sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy.
- Slice the cooled cake in half to create two rectangular pieces, spread a layer of frosting between them, and then use the remaining frosting to cover the top (and sides, if there is enough extra frosting).
- Garnish with fresh strawberries, if you like.
