Matcha Cake
In a world filled with vibrant flavors and textures, matcha stands out with its unique, earthy taste and stunning green hue. This Matcha Cake is a delightful way to showcase matcha’s charm, combining a tender, moist cake with a creamy frosting that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of creating this lovely dessert that balances sweetness and the subtle bitterness of matcha.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– The vibrant green color of matcha makes for a visually stunning cake.
– A perfect balance of sweetness and the rich, earthy flavor of matcha.
– Simple ingredients that come together easily.
– Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, with optional seasonal garnishes.
– A delightful frosting that complements the cake beautifully.
Gather These Ingredients
- 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)
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer or whisk for creaming the butter and sugar.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Baking pan (9-inch round) for the cake.
- Spatula for frosting and spreading.
- Sifter for the powdered sugar to ensure smooth frosting.
Matcha Cake Cooking Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 7 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the 1 1/2 tablespoons of matcha powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent throughout the flour.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the 5 tablespoons of buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the 4 ounces of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 1/2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake using a spatula.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries or your favorite berries for a pop of color and added flavor. Slice and enjoy your delicious Matcha Cake!
Fresh Takes Through the Year
- Spring: Top with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a bright, seasonal touch.
- Summer: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cool treat on hot days.
- Fall: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a cozy flavor.
- Winter: Drizzle with a white chocolate ganache for a festive look and taste.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
To ensure your Matcha Cake turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not sifting the powdered sugar for the frosting can lead to a gritty texture.
- Over-mixing the batter can result in a dense cake, so mix until just combined.
- Using old or expired matcha powder can diminish the flavor and color of the cake.
- Not letting the cake cool completely before frosting can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
To keep your Matcha Cake at its best:
- Let the cake cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- To rewarm, simply slice and microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour, but the texture may vary slightly. Ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 5 tablespoons of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly to maintain its moisture and freshness.
How can I enhance the matcha flavor?
For a stronger matcha flavor, feel free to increase the amount of matcha powder by an extra tablespoon, but be cautious as it may affect the texture.
What to Make After This
- Matcha Latte – Enjoy the flavors of matcha in a cozy beverage.
- Matcha Cookies – Try a different dessert that highlights matcha’s unique taste.
- Matcha Scones – Perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.
- Matcha Brownies – A fudgy twist on the classic brownie with matcha.
The Takeaway
This Matcha Cake is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Its unique flavor profile, coupled with a creamy frosting, makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. Remember, the key to a perfect cake lies in the quality of your ingredients and the love you pour into the process. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and revel in the joy of creating a delicious masterpiece that celebrates the magic of matcha. Happy baking!
Matcha Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 7 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the 1 1/2 tablespoons of matcha powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the 5 tablespoons of buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 4 ounces of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 1/2 tablespoons of heavy cream, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cooled cake using a spatula.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired, slice, and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Experiment with seasonal fruits for garnishing to enhance presentation.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
