Delicate, vibrant, and packed with the distinctive flavor of matcha, this Matcha Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love a balance of sweetness and earthy green tea.

Serve it plain, or elevate it with a whipped matcha frosting for an extra touch of elegance. Let's dive into this easy and delightful recipe!

<h3>Ingredients:</h3>

- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- ½ teaspoon baking soda

- ¼ teaspoon salt

- ¾ cup granulated sugar

- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- ½ cup milk

- ¼ cup plain yogurt

<h3>For the frosting (optional):</h3>

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

- 1 teaspoon matcha powder

<h3>Directions:</h3>

<b>Preheat the Oven:</b> Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

<b>Dry Ingredients:</b> In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the matcha flavor is evenly distributed throughout the cake.

<b>Creaming Butter and Sugar:</b> In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

<b>Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:</b> Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk and yogurt. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, which can make the cake dense.

<b>Bake the Cake:</b> Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

<b>Prepare the Frosting (optional):</b> For an added touch of elegance, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and matcha powder together until soft peaks form. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, or serve it on the side.

<h3>Health Benefits of Matcha Cake:</h3>

<b>Antioxidant Powerhouse:</b> Matcha is a form of powdered green tea known for its high antioxidant content, specifically catechins. These antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health. Consuming matcha in cake form still provides some of these benefits, especially if you use a high-quality, organic matcha powder.

<b>Boosts Brain Function:</b> Matcha contains caffeine and L-theanine, which work together to improve cognitive function. While the caffeine provides a calm energy boost, L-theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This combination can enhance concentration and focus, making matcha an excellent choice for those looking to stay alert and productive.

<b>Supports Weight Loss:</b> Matcha can aid in weight loss due to its ability to increase metabolism and fat burning. The catechins in matcha have been shown to improve fat oxidation, particularly during exercise. Including matcha in your diet, even in dessert form, can slightly boost your metabolism.

<b>Calming Properties:</b> The L-theanine in matcha also has calming effects on the body, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being. This can help reduce stress levels, making matcha cake not only a delicious treat but also a calming one.

<b>Energy Boost:</b> Unlike the sharp spike and crash associated with coffee, matcha offers a more sustained energy release. This makes it a great ingredient in desserts, as it provides a gentle, lasting energy boost without the jittery effects of other caffeinated options.

<h3>Conclusion:</h3>

This Matcha Cake combines the earthy, vibrant flavors of matcha with the soft, fluffy texture of a classic cake. So, Lykkers, whether enjoyed plain or topped with whipped matcha frosting, this dessert offers a delightful balance of flavor and health benefits, perfect for those looking to indulge in a treat with a nutritious twist.

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Video by Pastry Living with Aya