Name: Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 33 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 7 tablespoons (99 grams) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon (5 mL) vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tablespoons matcha powder; 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/3 cup buttermilk; 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature; 2 cups (260 grams) powdered sugar, sifted; 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 mL) vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons (30 mL) heavy cream; Fresh strawberries

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 75 reviews

If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly balances earthy and sweet flavors while dazzling with a vibrant pop of color, then this Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. This delightful treat features the delicate bitterness of finely ground matcha powder paired with a luscious, creamy strawberry frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet. Every bite brings a soft, tender crumb and a fresh fruity finish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon tea, this matcha cake will impress and satisfy effortlessly.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white marbled surface holds several small white bowls and a clear glass measuring cup arranged in a loose circle. There are two white bowls filled with yellow butter sticks, one placed at the bottom left and the other on the right, with the butter showing smooth texture. Near the center, two brown eggs rest side by side. A small white bowl with bright green powder is next to the eggs. Next to it are bowls containing white granulated sugar, white powdered sugar, and white flour, each showing a soft, fine texture. A glass measuring cup filled with light cream or milk sits near the top center. There are two small white bowls with dark brown vanilla extract placed near the lower right and near the center right. Overall, the ingredients are neatly spaced over the clean and simple white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the rich unsalted butter that keeps the cake tender, to the bright matcha powder that lends its signature green hue and subtle tea flavor. The buttermilk adds moisture while creating a moist texture, and the fresh strawberries bring natural color and fruity sweetness to the frosting. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand:

Unsalted butter (99 grams, softened): Creates a soft, fluffy base for the cake and smooth texture for the frosting.

Granulated sugar (200 grams): Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the matcha taste.
Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness to the cake.
Vanilla extract (2 ½ teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor, especially in the frosting.

Matcha powder (1 ½ tablespoons): Packs the distinctive green tea flavor and vibrant color for the cake.
All-purpose flour (120 grams): Forms the backbone of the cake for a tender crumb.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.

Buttermilk (⅓ cup): Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance flavors.
Powdered sugar (260 grams, sifted): Creates the silky-smooth frosting texture without any grit.
Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Keeps the frosting creamy and easy to spread.

Fresh strawberries (optional for garnish): Bring a pop of color and a fresh fruity note to the dessert.

How to Make Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F to ensure it’s perfectly warm when your batter is ready. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper on the bottom and lightly spray the exposed sides. This step ensures your cake will easily lift out without any sticking issues, giving you clean edges and a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This process, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes, is vital because it introduces air into the batter, helping your cake rise beautifully and develop that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Blend in Eggs, Matcha, and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the matcha powder and vanilla extract. Beat only until everything is combined to avoid overworking the batter. The matcha will give the batter a gorgeous green hue and a delicate tea flavor that makes this cake truly special.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk the all-purpose flour and baking powder together in a small bowl to distribute the leavening agent evenly. This step ensures your cake will rise uniformly, preventing any dense patches.

Step 5: Mix Flour and Buttermilk Alternately

Add half of the flour mixture to the batter and stir gently until combined. Then pour in all the buttermilk and stir again. Finally, fold in the remaining flour mixture, mixing just until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix or the cake might become tough instead of tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Done

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared pan and bake on the middle oven rack for 30 to 33 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted comes out with only moist crumbs but no wet batter. This ensures the cake is moist without being undercooked.

Step 7: Cool and Remove from Pan

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes until the edges start to pull away. Then, run a knife around the sides and carefully lift the cake out using the parchment paper. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Whip Up the Strawberry Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together the remaining softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the frosting is luxuriously light and fluffy. This creamy frosting is the perfect complement to the matcha’s earthiness and adds a subtle sweetness with a hint of strawberry.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Slice the cooled cake into two equal halves horizontally, creating two thin cakes. Spread a generous layer of frosting on one half, then carefully place the other half on top. This layered structure adds even more deliciousness and moisture between the layers.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh strawberries on top to make it as stunning as it is tasty. Slice into 5 or 6 triangles, serve, and watch your guests’ faces light up with each bite.

How to Serve Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe

A white rectangular plate holds a two-layer green sponge cake with a thick white cream filling between the layers. The top layer is decorated with white whipped cream swirls and halved fresh strawberries placed evenly on top. Around the plate, whole and halved strawberries are scattered on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a small white plate filled with whole strawberries next to a glass bottle of milk. A white cloth is casually placed near the cake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the obvious choice for garnishing this cake, adding juiciness and a bright splash of color that contrasts beautifully with the green matcha. You can also sprinkle some matcha powder lightly over the frosting for a delicate, earthy finish that hints at the flavor inside.

Side Dishes

This Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of green tea or jasmine tea, which complements the flavors without overpowering them. For a more indulgent pairing, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add extra creaminess alongside the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests further, try serving slices of this cake on delicate porcelain plates with a drizzle of strawberry coulis around the edge. Alternately, create individual mini trifles by layering small cubes of matcha cake with whipped strawberry frosting and fresh berries in clear glasses for an elegant, modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days, but storing it in the refrigerator wrapped well or under a cake dome is best to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the cake from drying out for up to five days.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw completely before frosting and assembling to preserve the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the cake again, let it come to room temperature naturally. Avoid microwaving to warm the frosted cake as it may melt the frosting and affect texture. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

FAQs

Can I substitute matcha powder with green tea powder?

Matcha powder is a specific type of finely ground green tea leaves, so substituting it with regular green tea powder is not recommended as it won’t provide the same vibrant color or flavor intensity needed for this recipe.

Is buttermilk necessary for this cake?

Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang which balances the sweetness and enhances the cake’s texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute with milk and lemon juice or vinegar, but avoid skipping it altogether.

How do I get a bright green color in the matcha cake?

Use high-quality, vibrant matcha powder and do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can dull the color and affect the texture. Also, avoid baking at too high heat which can cause the color to fade.

Can I make the frosting less sweet?

Absolutely! You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a little fresh strawberry puree to the frosting to introduce natural sweetness and cut down on added sugar while keeping it delicious.

How do I store the cake if I want to serve it the next day?

Cover the cake well with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight cake container. Refrigerate overnight to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

Making this Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe is such a joy, not just because it’s delicious but because it brings together simple ingredients in a way that creates something truly special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this cake is sure to brighten up any table with its stunning color and unforgettable flavor. Give it a try—you deserve a slice of happiness!

Matcha Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need