At Matcha & Beyond , we believe in using premium matcha to elevate your everyday bakes into extraordinary delights. From soft cakes to chewy cookies, matcha adds a distinctive twist that makes your desserts stand out. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most creative and mouth-watering ways to bake with matcha using ceremonial-grade matcha powder.

Why Bake with Matcha?

Before we dive into recipes and creative applications, let’s look at why matcha is such a game-changer in baking.

Natural Colour and Flavour

Unlike synthetic food dyes, matcha offers a naturally vivid green hue. It not only makes your desserts visually appealing but also adds a distinct, slightly grassy, and subtly sweet flavour.

Nutritional Value

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially catechins like EGCG. When you use ceremonial matcha powder in your baking, you’re not just enhancing flavour, you’re also adding health benefits to your treats.

Versatility in Recipes

Matcha pairs beautifully with both sweet and savoury ingredients. Whether you're baking a layered cake or crafting delicate shortbread, matcha can be adapted to almost any type of recipe.

What Does Matcha Taste Like in Baked Goods?

For those new to baking with matcha, a common question arises: what does matcha taste like? In its purest form, matcha has a rich umami character, complemented by a slight sweetness and a hint of bitterness. When incorporated into baked goods, this unique profile mellows, leaving a nutty and creamy finish. It’s unlike any other ingredient, complex yet comforting.

Creative Matcha Cake Recipes

1. Matcha Sponge Cake

A matcha sponge cake is the perfect introduction to baking with green tea. Light, airy, and subtly sweet, it serves as a canvas for more complex toppings like fruit, cream, or ganache.

Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Butter
• Ceremonial matcha powder

Tips:

• Sift the matcha with the flour to avoid clumping.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the sponge fluffy.
• Serve with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a Japanese twist.

2. Matcha Cheesecake

For a richer dessert, matcha cheesecake offers a creamy texture and a balanced earthy flavour. Swirl in the matcha to create a marbled effect or blend it throughout for a consistent green hue.

Serving suggestion: Top with white chocolate shavings or a dusting of matcha for an elegant presentation.

3. Matcha Chiffon Cake

This feather-light cake is ideal for those who prefer a subtle sweetness. It’s often served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar and matcha. The use of egg whites makes it rise beautifully while maintaining a soft texture.

Innovative Matcha Cookie Ideas

1. Matcha Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are buttery, crisp, and infused with the delicate flavour of ceremonial matcha powder. They’re perfect for gifting or pairing with a cup of tea.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to contrast with the sweet, earthy flavour.

2. Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies

A twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, this version uses white chocolate to complement the umami richness of matcha. The result is a chewy, sweet, and slightly grassy cookie that’s hard to resist.

Optional Add-ins:

• Macadamia nuts
• Toasted coconut
• Dried cranberries

3. Matcha Crinkle Cookies

Crinkle cookies are soft and fudgy inside with a crackled powdered sugar coating. Matcha adds an unexpected twist, offering a bright green colour and nuanced flavour.

Baking Tip: Chill the dough before rolling in sugar to achieve the best crinkle effect.

Unique Matcha Desserts Worth Trying

1. Matcha Tiramisu

Swap espresso for matcha to create a green tea twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layer ladyfingers dipped in matcha milk with mascarpone cream for a lighter, refreshing take.

2. Matcha Macarons

French macarons can be notoriously difficult, but the result is worth it. Use matcha in both the shell and filling to create a cohesive flavour. Fill with white chocolate ganache or yuzu-infused buttercream for a zesty contrast.

3. Matcha Lava Cake

This molten-centred dessert brings dramatic flair to your dinner parties. Matcha combines with white chocolate to create a gooey, vibrant green interior that oozes out as you cut into the cake.

Breakfast and Snack Ideas with Matcha

1. Matcha Muffins

Matcha muffins are a quick and easy option for breakfast or snacks. Add blueberries, almonds, or banana slices for extra texture and flavour.

Health Boost: Use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar for a more wholesome treat.

2. Matcha Granola Bars

Homemade granola bars with oats, honey, and ceremonial matcha powder make a great on-the-go snack. Mix in nuts and dried fruits to create your perfect flavour combo.

3. Matcha Pancakes

Give your weekend breakfast a makeover by adding matcha to your pancake batter. Top with maple syrup, fruit, and yogurt for a satisfying start to the day.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Matcha Baking Ideas

1. Vegan Matcha Banana Bread

Use flax eggs and plant-based milk to create a vegan version of this classic. The earthy flavour of matcha pairs well with the sweetness of ripe bananas.

2. Gluten-Free Matcha Almond Cake

Ground almonds and rice flour make a moist, nutty cake that’s naturally gluten-free. Matcha adds depth and a pop of colour.

Serving Suggestion: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of dairy-free cream.

Tips for Baking with Matcha

1. Choose High-Quality Matcha

Always use culinary or ceremonial-grade matcha from a reputable source. Inferior powders can taste bitter or dull. We recommend exploring the range of ceremonial matcha powder available at Matcha & Beyond for baking excellence.

2. Sift Before Use

Matcha tends to clump, so sifting before mixing ensures an even texture and prevents bitterness.

3. Pairing Flavours

Matcha pairs beautifully with ingredients like:

• White chocolate
• Lemon and citrus
• Berries
• Coconut
• Vanilla
• Almond

Use these to balance the earthy profile and create well-rounded desserts.

4. Adjust Sugar Content

Matcha has a naturally bitter edge. Depending on your taste preferences and the recipe, you may need to adjust sugar levels to find the right balance.

5. Storage Matters

Store matcha in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Exposure to air and heat can cause it to lose its vibrant colour and flavour.

Pairing Baked Matcha Treats with Beverages

• Matcha Latte: Reinforce the flavour profile with a creamy latte.
• Yuzu Sparkling Water: The citrus notes help cut through richness.
• Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: Complement the dessert without overwhelming it.

Hosting with Matcha: Themed Dessert Tables

Planning a brunch or afternoon tea? Create a themed matcha dessert table with items like:

• Mini matcha cupcakes
• Matcha madeleines
• Matcha-dusted truffles
• Green tea mochi
• Iced matcha latte bar

Accent the table with fresh flowers, bamboo serve ware, and shades of green to complete the aesthetic.