Introduction to Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Baking is more than a task; it's a creative escape, especially for young professionals juggling busy lives. Enter the delightful Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake—a layered treat that seamlessly combines the earthy charm of matcha with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries. This cake serves not only as a delicious dessert but also as a conversation starter at gatherings or a well-deserved treat after a hectic workweek.
Why is this cake particularly suited for young professionals? For starters, it's relatively simple to prepare and can be made over a weekend, making it perfect for your downtime. Plus, the distinct combination of flavors will impress friends at brunch or serve as a lovely centerpiece for a small gathering. If you're feeling adventurous, consider matching it with a refreshing iced matcha latte for that Instagram-worthy setup! Experts like those at The Kitchn emphasize the importance of flavorful ingredients like matcha for boosting mood and productivity, making it not just another sweet indulgence but a snack that fuels your day.
Ready to dive into the recipe for this delicious cake? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Bringing both flavor and visual appeal, the Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake is as delightful to make as it is to eat. To kick off your baking journey, gather the following ingredients!
For the Matcha Cake
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 tablespoons ceremonial grade, bright green matcha powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated white sugar
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Matcha Latte Soak
- 2 teaspoons ceremonial grade, bright green matcha powder
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ to ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cold
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting a vibrant and flavorful Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake that’s sure to impress! For more tips on selecting high-quality matcha powder, check out reputable sources like the Matcha Maiden or Serious Eats. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Creating a Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake is like a mini adventure in your kitchen! This cake combines the earthy flavors of matcha with the sweet tartness of strawberries, making it perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350℉ (175 ℃). While that’s warming up, grab a 9x9-inch pan and grease it thoroughly. To ensure your cake pops out easily, line the bottom with parchment paper. This small step saves you from a potential cake disaster later on.
Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Cake
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 ¼ cups of flour, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these ingredients evenly will help your cake rise beautifully and have that vibrant green hue!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, combine 10 tablespoons of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Beat them together with an electric mixer for about two minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake a tender crumb.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now it’s time to add a little richness! With the mixer on medium speed, incorporate 3 eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature) and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the combination is pale and well-blended—about one minute is perfect.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold in your dry ingredients and 1 cup of buttermilk into the butter and sugar mixture. Do this slowly and mix on low speed until you see a smooth batter. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula—it’s essential for even mixing!
Bake the Cake and Cool
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 38-42 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes before transferring it to cool completely.
Prepare the Matcha Latte Soak
While your cake is cooling, let’s prepare a delightful matcha soak. In a small bowl, sift 2 teaspoons of matcha powder and mix it with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Then add ½ cup of whole milk, ½ to ¾ cup of sweetened condensed milk (be sure to adjust based on your sweetness preference), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting, combine 1 cup of softened butter and 8 ounces of cold cream cheese in a bowl. Beat them on high speed until fluffy. Next, grind 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor, then pass it through a sieve to eliminate seeds. Combine the strawberry powder with 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar in the frosting for the ultimate flavor boost.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, cut off a thin layer from the top to create a level surface for soaking. Poke holes in the cake using a wooden stick, then ladle the matcha soak over the top, allowing it to seep into the holes. Finish off by frosting with a thick layer of the strawberry cream cheese frosting, slice into pieces, and savor the delightful taste of your Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake!
This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Dairy-Free Matcha Cake
Craving a delicious Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake but need to skip the dairy? No problem! Swap out the buttermilk for almond or coconut milk and replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. The matcha flavor will still shine through, providing that delightful green hue you love!
Gluten-Free Options
Want to enjoy this mouthwatering cake without the gluten? Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur’s Flour work well for this. The key to a great gluten-free cake is to let it cool completely to maintain the right texture. Enjoy every bite of your luscious Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake!
For more tips on gluten-free baking, check out resources from the Gluten Intolerance Group!
Baking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Ingredient Quality Matters
For the Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final flavor. Opt for ceremonial grade matcha powder, which boasts vibrant color and rich flavor. Fresh strawberries, preferably organic, can enhance the frosting, making it taste summery and delightful. A good quality unsalted butter can make your cake moist and flavorful. Remember, even simple ingredient upgrades can take your baking from good to exceptional!
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it to maintain its flavor and texture. Consider keeping the frosting separate until you're ready to serve; this helps preserve the cake's moisture and taste. If you're curious about how to store baked goods correctly, check out this helpful guide from King Arthur Baking for more tips!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Pairing With Different Beverages
The Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake is a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with various beverages. Try serving it alongside a refreshing iced matcha latte for an enhanced matcha experience, or enjoy it with a cup of herbal tea like hibiscus or chamomile. If you're in the mood for something lighter, a sparkling water with a hint of lime or lemon can offer a nice contrast to the cake's rich flavors.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Presentation matters! For an eye-catching display, consider layering slices of Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake between fresh strawberries on a platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of matcha for a pop of color. You could even serve individual slices on wooden boards, accompanied by small cups of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra matcha soak. A visually stunning cake not only elevates your table setting but also makes it more Instagram-worthy — because who doesn’t love sharing their culinary masterpieces online? For more tips on presentation, check out The Kitchn.
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
When creating a stunning Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake, it’s helpful to know how your time will be spent. Here’s a quick breakdown to keep you organized:
Preparation Time
Get your ingredients ready in about 30 minutes. Gather everything and mix your dry and wet ingredients—this sets you up for success!
Baking Time
Bake your cake for 38-42 minutes. You’ll want that perfect golden top to lock in that delicious matcha flavor!
Total Time
Overall, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including cooling the cake. This means you’ll be savoring that sweet strawberry matcha delight in no time!
By keeping track of these time segments, you can easily manage your baking adventure! For tips on how to make your cake even fluffier, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for their expert advice. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
When indulging in a slice of this delightful Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake, it’s helpful to know the nutrition behind the tasty treat!
Calories
Each slice of this cake contains approximately 300 calories, making it a moderate choice for dessert lovers looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without overindulging.
Sugar Content
With about 20 grams of sugar per slice, this cake strikes a sweet balance. It’s sweet enough to enjoy without overwhelming your palate, especially with the fruity notes of strawberries.
Protein
Each slice offers around 4 grams of protein, thanks to the eggs and dairy. This makes it a slightly more nutritious option compared to typical cakes, perfect for a little post-meal energy boost!
By being mindful of these nutritional facts, you can enjoy your Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake guilt-free. Pair it with a cup of green tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat! If you want to learn more about the benefits of matcha, check out Healthline's article on matcha for a deep dive.
FAQs about Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Can I use regular matcha instead of ceremonial grade?
While you can use regular matcha for your Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake, ceremonial grade matcha is typically finer and has a more vibrant flavor, which will enhance the cake’s taste. If you're on a budget, just opt for high-quality culinary matcha—look for a bright green color to ensure freshness.
How do I make the cake more moist?
For a moister cake, try these tips:
- Consider adding an extra egg yolk for richness.
- Mix in some plain yogurt or sour cream along with your buttermilk.
- Don't overbake! Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely dry.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your delicious Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices—just make sure to wrap them well! For more detailed storage tips, check out this expert storage guide.
Conclusion on Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Try It
Embrace the delightful fusion of matcha and strawberries with this delicious Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, this cake offers a fun and flavorful experience. Don’t hesitate to share your baking journey!
Strawberry Matcha Latte Cake
Equipment
- electric mixer
- 9x9-inch pan
- parchment paper
- food processor
- sieve
Ingredients
For the Matcha Cake
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2 tablespoon ceremonial grade matcha powder bright green
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated white sugar
- 3 pieces eggs at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 1 cup buttermilk 240 ml
For the Matcha Latte Soak
- 2 teaspoon ceremonial grade matcha powder bright green
- 2 tablespoon water
- ½ cup whole milk 120 ml
- ½ – ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk 150 g – 225 g/ 120 ml-180 ml, depending on sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese cold
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup freeze dried strawberries
Instructions
For the Matcha Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175 ℃). Grease a 9×9in pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then set aside the flour mixture.
- Add the softened butter and granulated white sugar to a large bowl. Cream together for 2 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Then add in the eggs and vanilla and mix on medium speed until pale in color and smooth, about 1 minute.
- Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients a little at a time, mixing on low speed until the cake batter is combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake the cake for 38-42 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then pull up on the parchment paper to release it from the pan. Let the cake continue cooling on the cooling rack until completely cooled.
For the Matcha Latte Soak
- While the cake cools, make the matcha latte milk soak. Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl. Pour in the water and whisk until completely smooth.
- Then add in the milk, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla.
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- Add the softened butter and cream cheese to a large bowl. Mix with an electric mixer on high speed until fluffy, 1-2 minutes.
- Add the freeze dried strawberries to a food processor. Pulse until very finely ground. Pass the ground freeze dried strawberries through a sieve to remove the seeds.
- Add in the powdered sugar and finely ground freeze dried strawberries. Mix on low speed until combined, then on high speed until fluffy.
Assembling the Cake
- When the cake is completely cooled, cut a very thin layer off the top of the cake using a sharp knife. This will make it easier for the matcha mixture to absorb into the cake. Transfer it to a serving plate. Poke holes on the top of the cake using a wooden stick or the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Slowly pour the matcha mixture on top of the cake. It is thin so it should absorb into the cake and the poked holes easily, but do be patient as it does.
- Frost the top of the cake with a thick layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting using an offset spatula. Then cut into 16 slices and serve!
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