Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: the matcha dream cake! This cake is a delightful blend of earthy matcha flavor wrapped in light, fluffy layers that just melt in your mouth. Honestly, every bite feels like a little moment of zen. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy afternoon tea session, and I’ve been obsessed ever since! It’s the perfect treat for impressing friends or just indulging in a little self-care. The vibrant green hue not only looks stunning but also hints at the fresh, aromatic taste of matcha that dances on your palate. Trust me, once you try this cake, it’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation. Get ready to fall in love with this dreamy creation!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cake, giving it structure and fluffiness.
- 1 cup sugar: I use granulated sugar for sweetness that balances the earthy matcha flavor perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s soft to create that lovely creamy texture when creamed with sugar.
- 1 cup milk: This adds moisture and keeps the cake light and airy—you can use whole milk or any milk of your choice!
- 3 large eggs: These bind everything together and help the cake rise beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder: The star of the show! Use high-quality matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This helps our cake rise to the occasion, making it fluffy and light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
How to Prepare Matcha Dream Cake
Preheat and Prepare Pans
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure our cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly! While that’s heating up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Don’t forget to dust them lightly with flour—this will help our cake layers release easily once they’re baked. Trust me, no one wants a cake that sticks!
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Now, in a large mixing bowl, let’s cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar! Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want to achieve a pale yellow color and a smooth texture. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, making your cake nice and airy!
Adding Eggs and Matcha
Next up, we’ll add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps them blend in smoothly without any lumps. Now for the star of the show—add in those two tablespoons of matcha powder! Mix until everything is well combined and you can see that lovely vibrant green color throughout. It’s such a treat!
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour, ensuring a consistent rise. I always make sure to mix thoroughly because no one wants a clump of baking powder in their slice! Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want a tender cake!
Baking the Cake
Now it’s time to pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. I like to use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step is super important so they don’t get soggy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightful Flavor: The earthy matcha flavor is perfectly balanced with sweetness, making every bite an experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this cake is accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Stunning Presentation: The vibrant green color of the cake is visually striking, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
- Versatile Treat: Serve it plain, with whipped cream, or alongside fresh fruit for a delightful dessert any time!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, tea party, or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
Tips for Success
To make sure your matcha dream cake turns out perfectly, here are my top tips! First, use high-quality matcha powder—trust me, it makes a world of difference in flavor and color. If you can, sift the matcha powder before adding it to your batter; this helps eliminate any clumps and ensures a smooth mix. When creaming the butter and sugar, don’t rush it—take the time to get that light, fluffy texture. It’s the secret to a tender cake! Also, be gentle when mixing the dry ingredients into the wet; over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. Finally, always keep an eye on your cake while baking. Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes early. You want that perfect, moist cake that’s not overbaked!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in this delightful matcha dream cake! Each slice packs in around 250 calories, making it a sweet treat that won’t completely derail your day. You’ll find about 10 grams of fat, with 6 grams being saturated fat. There’s around 36 grams of carbohydrates and 15 grams of sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it includes about 4 grams of protein, which is a nice bonus! Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients. Enjoy your slice of happiness!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of matcha?
Absolutely! The quality of matcha can really impact the flavor of your matcha dream cake. Culinary-grade matcha is perfect for baking and tends to have a more robust flavor, while ceremonial-grade matcha is usually more delicate and best enjoyed in beverages. If you have a high-quality matcha on hand, it’ll make your cake even more vibrant and delicious!
How can I store leftovers?
To keep your matcha dream cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge where it can last for about a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
What can I serve with matcha dream cake?
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further! Try pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess or serve it alongside fresh berries for a fruity contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements the earthy matcha beautifully. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your matcha dream cake, the possibilities are endless! I love to enjoy a slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top—it adds a lovely creaminess that complements the earthy matcha flavor perfectly. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, bring a bright, tart contrast and make the presentation pop! For an extra indulgent treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Trust me, these combinations will take your dessert experience to the next level and leave everyone asking for more!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out this layered cake recipe or explore eggless chocolate cake for a delightful twist!
Print
Matcha Dream Cake: 5 Steps to Bake Your New Favorite Treat
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful matcha dream cake that combines the earthy flavor of matcha with light, fluffy cake layers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Mix in the milk and matcha powder.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before frosting.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality matcha powder.
- Can be served with whipped cream or fruit.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: matcha dream cake, matcha cake, green tea cake
