Description
This Matcha Pound Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert infused with earthy matcha green tea powder. With a tender crumb and a subtle sweetness balanced by the rich butter and vanilla, it makes a perfect treat for tea time or any occasion. The cake is baked to golden perfection and can be garnished with powdered sugar or a white chocolate drizzle for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp matcha green tea powder (culinary grade or higher)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- White chocolate drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, matcha green tea powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and matcha throughout the flour.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step incorporates air, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Add half of the dry ingredient mixture to the batter, mixing on low speed. Next, add the whole milk and mix again on low to combine smoothly without overmixing.
- Finish Mixing Batter: Add the remaining dry ingredients and gently mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the cake sets properly and prevents sogginess.
- Optional Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a beautiful presentation and an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- Use culinary grade or higher matcha powder for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
- Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; check the cake at 55 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Use eggs at room temperature to help the batter emulsify better.
- Let the cake cool completely before applying any garnish to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired