Matcha Cheesecake Recipe – Creamy, Delicious & Easy Japanese
If you love matcha and cheesecake, this Matcha Cheesecake Recipe is a perfect fusion of earthy, slightly bitter green tea flavors with rich, creamy cheesecake. The vibrant green hue, combined with a velvety texture, makes this an eye-catching dessert that’s ideal for tea lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this Japanese-inspired matcha cheesecake will impress both in taste and presentation.
Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, is known for its antioxidants and subtle umami notes, making it a unique ingredient for desserts. This recipe provides step-by-step guidance to create a smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy cheesecake with a delicate balance of flavors.
Nutrition & Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Active Time: 1 hour
- Resting Time: 4 hours (chilling)
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Japanese, Fusion
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 10 slices
- Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Fine mesh sieve
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Aluminum foil
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 2 tbsp matcha powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp matcha powder (sifted)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for stability)
For the Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup whipped cream
- 1 tsp matcha powder (for dusting)
- White chocolate shavings or fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, matcha powder, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, forming an even crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Sift the matcha powder over the mixture and blend until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, and mix until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix to avoid air bubbles.
- Sift in the cornstarch and fold gently to ensure a smooth texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (water bath method).
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly wobbly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Before serving, whip the cream and pipe it onto the cheesecake. Dust with matcha powder and garnish with white chocolate shavings or berries.
Tips for Best Results
- Use High-Quality Matcha – Ceremonial or culinary-grade matcha provides the best color and flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can create too much air, leading to cracks.
- Water Bath is Essential – This ensures an even bake and prevents cracks.
- Chill for the Best Flavor – Letting the cheesecake set overnight enhances the taste and texture.
- Sift the Matcha – This prevents clumps and ensures even distribution.
Pairing Suggestions
This matcha cheesecake pairs wonderfully with:
- A cup of hot or iced matcha latte
- Jasmine or green tea for a complementary tea experience
- Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness
- A dusting of cocoa powder for a unique twist
Conclusion
This Matcha Cheesecake Recipe offers a delightful fusion of creamy, rich cheesecake and the earthy notes of green tea. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or new to this ingredient, this dessert is sure to impress with its smooth texture, vibrant color, and perfectly balanced flavors. Try this recipe today and indulge in a decadent Japanese-inspired treat!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.