Introduction to Matcha Pound Cake Recipe
What is Matcha Pound Cake and Why You’ll Love It?
If you’re craving something sweet and unique, let me introduce you to the delightful world of matcha pound cake. This scrumptious dessert beautifully combines the traditional flavors of pound cake with the earthy, rich essence of matcha, a finely powdered green tea that’s making waves in the culinary scene. Not only does it offer a beautiful green hue that hints at its flavor, but it’s also a treat for your taste buds and a visual feast.
What I love about this matcha pound cake recipe is its versatility. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or an elegant dessert after dinner, this cake is only a few ingredients away! The surprising depth that matcha brings elevates the simple pound cake to something extraordinary. Plus, the health benefits of matcha, known for its antioxidants, add a guilt-free charm to indulging in a slice or two.
Ready to whisk your way into this deliciousness? Trust me, once you master this cake, it will become your go-to recipe for impressing friends at gatherings or enjoying a quiet moment alone with a cup of coffee. Excited to dive in? Let’s get baking!
Matcha Pound Cake Recipe
Ingredients for Matcha Pound Cake
When you dive into creating a matcha pound cake, having the right ingredients is half the battle won. Here’s what you’ll need:
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3 eggs (room temperature)
These act as the foundation, providing moisture and structure to your cake. -
3 yolks (room temperature)
Rich and creamy, adding depth to flavor and texture. -
3 tablespoon water
This addition will help in creating a smooth batter. -
7 oz cake flour (200g)
This specialized flour ensures a light, tender crumb. -
3 tablespoon matcha powder
The star of the show – this green tea powder imparts both vibrant color and a unique, earthy flavor. You can find high-quality matcha powder here. -
½ teaspoon salt
A must-have for balancing sweetness and enhancing all flavors. -
8 oz butter, room temperature (225g)
Creamy butter adds richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. -
9 oz sugar (250g)
This sweet factor will give your cake that delightful, moist texture we love.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of this delectable matcha pound cake recipe. Be sure to check out specialty stores or online options for the freshest cake flour. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Matcha Pound Cake
If you're ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure, you're in for a treat with this matcha pound cake recipe! This cake combines the earthy richness of matcha with a classic pound cake texture. Let’s break down the preparation process into easy-to-follow steps.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into baking, it's crucial to have all your ingredients organized. Here’s what you'll need:
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 3 yolks (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoon water
- 7 oz cake flour
- 3 tablespoon matcha powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 oz butter (room temperature)
- 9 oz sugar
Make sure to measure them out in advance, as it streamlines the process and keeps everything in order.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
The next step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly. While the oven is warming up, take a 9"x5" loaf pan (with an 8"x4" bottom) and grease it thoroughly. Using parchment paper can help make removing the cake after baking a breeze!
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, yolks, and water until well combined. The key here is to ensure everything is blended smoothly, as this mixture will add moisture to your cake.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the cake flour, matcha powder, and salt. Sifting not only helps to aerate the flour but also ensures there are no lumps in your dry ingredients, which is crucial for a tender cake.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Now, it’s time to work some magic on the butter and sugar. Place the room-temperature butter in your stand mixer and beat it for about 2 minutes until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the sugar in 4-5 parts, mixing for another 5 minutes. The mixture should turn light and fluffy, which is what you’re looking for!
Gradually Mix It All Together
Once your butter and sugar are ready, it's time to slowly add the egg mixture, again in 4-5 parts. Give it another 5 minutes of mixing. After that, gently fold in your dry flour mixture by hand, taking care not to overmix. This helps maintain the cake's lovely texture.
Pour the Batter and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth out the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Each oven is different, so it’s good to start checking after 50 minutes. You want a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean.
Cool and Serve
After baking, let the cake cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before serving. The tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and soon you’ll have a beautiful matcha pound cake that's both delicious and visually stunning.
Enjoy the journey and savor each bite of this matcha pound cake!
Variations on Matcha Pound Cake
Matcha Chocolate Swirl Pound Cake
If you're craving a delightful twist on the classic matcha pound cake recipe, try adding a rich chocolate swirl! Simply melt some dark chocolate and fold it into half of the batter before layering it in your loaf pan. As the cake bakes, you'll create a stunning marbled effect. The combination of earthy matcha and decadent chocolate is truly irresistible. Plus, it's a great way to please both matcha lovers and chocolate enthusiasts at your baking gatherings.
Vegan Matcha Pound Cake
For those following a plant-based lifestyle, a vegan matcha pound cake is an excellent alternative that's equally delicious. Substituting eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds can bind the ingredients together beautifully. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to maintain that moist texture. You can find amazing vegan baking tips here to help you create a delightful treat that still honors the authentic matcha flavor without dairy or eggs. Enjoy the blend of flavors while catering to different dietary needs!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Matcha Pound Cake
Creating a delightful matcha pound cake is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps them blend smoothly, leading to a lighter texture. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge at least an hour before you start.
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Sifting Matters: Don’t skip the sifting step for the cake flour and matcha powder. This prevents lumps and ensures even distribution, giving your cake that gorgeous green color and consistent taste.
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Oven Monitoring: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cake while it bakes. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil for even cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped for a delicious matcha pound cake recipe that impresses friends and family alike. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Matcha Pound Cake
Elevate your matcha pound cake recipe to a delightful experience with these serving suggestions!
Simple Pairings
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Fresh Fruits: Serve slices alongside seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or citrus for a refreshing contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the rich flavor of the cake.
Beverages
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Green Tea: Pair your cake with a warm cup of green tea for a harmonious blend of flavors. The earthiness of the tea enhances the matcha notes beautifully.
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Lemonade: If you prefer something chilled, a glass of homemade lemonade brings a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the pound cake.
Presentation Tips
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Dusting Powdered Sugar: For a touch of elegance, dust your slices with powdered sugar before serving. It’s a simple yet effective way to make the cake look more inviting.
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Serving on a Rustic Board: Present your matcha pound cake on a wooden serving board with small bowls of fruit or spreads for a charming display that’ll wow your guests.
These simple ideas will turn your matcha pound cake into the star of the dessert table!
Time Breakdown for Matcha Pound Cake
Preparation Time
Getting ready to bake your matcha pound cake is quick and easy! Set aside about 15 minutes for gathering your ingredients, sifting the flour and matcha, and mixing everything together.
Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it into the oven for 1 hour. This is when the magic really happens, turning your mixture into a deliciously fluffy cake.
Total Time
In total, you'll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s a cozy activity that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, leaving you with a sweet treat to share with friends or enjoy on your own!
For a deeper dive into the recipe and insights on making the perfect matcha pound cake, check out these helpful baking tips: Baking Basics, Matcha Benefits. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Matcha Pound Cake
Calories
A serving of this delightful matcha pound cake contains approximately 290 calories. It's a treat that can easily fit into your daily calorie intake while satisfying your sweet cravings.
Protein
In each slice, you'll find around 5 grams of protein. Pairing this cake with a source of protein, like yogurt, can make for a balanced snack!
Sugar
This matcha pound cake recipe has about 20 grams of sugar per serving. While it brings sweetness, indulging mindfully is key, especially if you're watching your sugar intake.
For more insights on healthy baking, explore articles about sugar alternatives and ingredient swaps that keep your cakes delicious while managing nutrition.
FAQs about Matcha Pound Cake
Can I substitute ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, if you don’t have cake flour, using all-purpose flour is fine, but your cake may turn out a bit denser. Alternatively, you can replace butter with a vegan substitute like coconut oil. Just remember that these changes may alter the flavor and texture slightly, but that’s part of the fun in baking!
How do I store leftover pound cake?
To keep your matcha pound cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay moist at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Slice it, wrap each piece, and store them in a freezer bag. You can thaw slices as needed—perfect for a quick treat!
What can I serve with Matcha Pound Cake?
This matcha pound cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Try serving it with fresh fruits like strawberries or whipped cream for a delightful contrast. A drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the flavors too. If you’re into tea, enjoy a slice with your favorite brew—it truly brings out the matcha’s earthiness!
Conclusion on Matcha Pound Cake
In summary, this matcha pound cake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the earthy richness of matcha in a tender loaf. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat, it's easy to make and sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the unique flavors of this Japanese classic!
Matcha Pound Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- loaf pan
- Mixing Bowls
- spatula
Ingredients
- 3 whole eggs room temperature
- 3 tablespoon water
- 7 oz cake flour 200g
- 3 tablespoon Matcha powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 oz butter room temperature (225g)
- 9 oz sugar 250g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven at 350F (175C). Grease inside 9"x5" (bottom 8"x4") loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix eggs, yolks, and water. Sift cake flour, Matcha powder, and salt together into another bowl. Set aside.
- Put soft butter in a bowl of a stand mixer and beat with paddle for 2 minutes. Slowly add sugar in 4-5 parts, beating for 5 minutes until the color turns very light and it becomes fluffy.
- Then slowly add the egg mixture, pouring in 4-5 parts taking another 5 minutes. Fold in the flour mixture in 4-5 parts by hand.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, flatten the surface with a spatula, and bake in the oven about 1 hour. Cool slightly and remove the cake from the pan. Cool the cake completely on a cooling rack.
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