Matcha Green Tea Cake Recipe – Matcha has become a worldwide sensation—not only as a soothing tea but also as a flavor that elevates baked goods with its earthy aroma, vibrant green color, and delicate bitterness. When used in cakes, matcha adds a refined depth that balances sweetness beautifully. A matcha cake stands out instantly with its jade-green crumb and fragrant scent, making it ideal for celebrations, afternoon tea, or even minimalist modern dessert tables.
Recipe Overview
-
Cuisine: Japanese / Asian Fusion
-
Course: Dessert
-
Servings: 10–12 slices
-
Calories per Serving: ~330 kcal
-
Prep Time: 20 minutes
-
Active Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
-
Resting & Cooling Time: 1 hour
-
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
-
1 ¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
-
2 tbsp high-quality matcha green tea powder
-
1 ½ tsp baking powder
-
¼ tsp baking soda
-
¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
-
3 large eggs
-
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
-
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
-
¾ cup (180ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
3 tbsp sour cream or yogurt (for extra moisture)
Equipment Needed
-
2 mixing bowls
-
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
-
Whisk
-
Rubber spatula
-
Fine-mesh sieve (for sifting matcha)
-
8-inch round cake pan (or two for layers)
-
Parchment paper
-
Cooling rack
-
Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment to prevent sticking.
Because matcha is sensitive to heat, proper baking temperature ensures vibrant color and a smooth crumb.
Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together:
-
Flour
-
Matcha powder
-
Baking powder
-
Baking soda
-
Salt
Sifting matcha is crucial. It prevents clumps and ensures the cake achieves a smooth, even green tone without dark specks.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar on medium speed for 3–4 minutes, until thick, pale, and fluffy.
This incorporates air for a light, tender cake.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix into the egg mixture:
-
Oil or melted butter
-
Milk
-
Vanilla
-
Sour cream or yogurt
Blend until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the sifted matcha-flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
Use folding motions—don’t whisk vigorously.
This prevents overmixing and keeps the cake soft.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
Tap the pan lightly to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until:
-
A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
-
The top is set and lightly springy
Avoid overbaking—matcha cakes can dry out quickly.
Step 7: Cool the Cake Completely
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack for at least 1 hour.
Cooling ensures the crumb sets properly and prevents frosting from melting.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~330 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 170 mg |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
Values may vary based on frosting choice.
Tips for the Best Matcha Cake
✔ Use High-Quality Matcha
Ceremonial-grade gives the brightest color and cleanest flavor.
Culinary-grade works too—but choose a fresh, vibrant green powder.
✔ Do Not Overmix
This prevents a dense texture and preserves the cake’s fluffiness.
✔ Avoid Direct Sunlight
Light can dull matcha’s green color; store the cake in an airtight container.
✔ Add White Chocolate
Fold ½ cup white chocolate chips into the batter for sweetness that complements matcha.
✔ Use Sour Cream for Moisture
It creates a soft, bakery-style crumb.
Serving Suggestions
-
Dust lightly with matcha powder
-
Serve with green tea or milk tea
-
Add fresh berries for color contrast
-
Drizzle with white chocolate
-
Use edible gold leaf for an elegant touch
The cake’s subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with creamy or fruity additions.
Conclusion
This matcha cake is a beautiful fusion of Japanese flavors and classic Western baking techniques. Its delicate texture, refreshing aroma, and signature green crumb make it a standout dessert for any event. With simple pantry ingredients, a little folding technique, and quality matcha, you can create a cake that’s not only visually stunning but also deeply flavorful and satisfying.
