Matcha Dream Cake

There’s something comforting about the earthy aroma of matcha rising from the kitchen. It reminds me of cool spring mornings when my grandmother would whisk a bowl of matcha tea in her little sunlit nook by the window. She said the ritual taught patience. Years later, when I first discovered Matcha Dream Cake, it felt like a warm reunion with that memory—only this time, layered between soft, fluffy cake and creamy frosting.

Matcha Dream Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a celebration of Japanese tradition and modern baking artistry. With its vibrant green layers and gentle sweetness, it brings together centuries of ceremonial tea heritage with the joy of homemade cake. This recipe has become a go-to for birthdays, springtime brunches, and tea parties. It turns heads on dessert tables and always invites that moment of awe when it’s sliced to reveal its beautiful color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Elegant and Eye-Catching: That lush green color isn’t just aesthetic—it’s natural from the matcha and draws admiration every time.
• Delightfully Unique Flavor: Earthy, subtly sweet, and refreshing. Matcha adds sophistication you won’t find in standard vanilla or chocolate cakes.
• Perfect for Tea Lovers: If you’re already a matcha fan, this cake is your dream dessert.
• Great for Any Occasion: From birthdays to bridal showers, it’s a classy yet cozy addition.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons matcha powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Matcha Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons matcha powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

How to Make Matcha Dream Cake

Making Matcha Dream Cake feels like crafting something sacred. The colors, textures, and aromas all blend into a serene, almost meditative experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Sift the Dry Ingredients
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting the matcha is key to avoiding clumps and ensuring smooth texture.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   Using a stand or hand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
   Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Scrape down the bowl to keep everything evenly mixed.

1. Incorporate the Dry and Wet Ingredients
   Alternately add the dry mixture and milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined.
2. Bake to Perfection
   Divide the batter between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
3. Make the Matcha Frosting
   In a clean bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and matcha gradually. Mix in vanilla and cream until fluffy and spreadable.
4. Assemble Your Dream Cake
   Place one cake layer on a stand. Spread a thick layer of matcha frosting. Top with the second cake layer. Apply a thin crumb coat, chill for 15 minutes, then frost generously and decorate as desired. A dusting of matcha on top gives it an elegant finish.

Helpful Tips:

• Choose Culinary-Grade Matcha: For the best flavor and color.
• Room Temperature is Key: Cold eggs or butter can ruin the batter’s texture.
• Don’t Overmix: To keep the crumb soft and moist.
• Decorate with Simplicity: A dusting of matcha, a few edible flowers, or white chocolate shavings elevate the look without overpowering the flavor.

Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes:

This cake improves as it sits. The matcha flavor deepens overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Carbs: 50g
• Sugar: 35g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes! Almond milk or oat milk works beautifully, though it might slightly change the flavor profile.

What’s the best matcha for baking?
Culinary-grade matcha is ideal. It has a strong color and flavor that holds up to baking.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for structure.

Can I frost it with something else?
Absolutely. A whipped cream cheese frosting or even a white chocolate ganache complements it well.

Storage Instructions:

• Room Temp: Keep in an airtight container for 2 days.
• Fridge: Store for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze cake layers (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before assembling.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this Matcha Dream Cake, you’ll definitely enjoy these other creamy and dreamy desserts:

• White Chocolate Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake
• Passion Fruit & Mango Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
• Dubai Chocolate Cake
• Instant Pot Pandan Cake: A Taste of Southeast Asia, Right from Your Kitchen

Conclusion:

The Matcha Dream Cake isn’t just a cake—it’s a conversation, a memory, a moment of pause in a busy world. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or slicing into it on a quiet Sunday afternoon, its flavor, history, and elegance invite you to savor every bite.

Print