If you’re looking to impress with a dessert that’s both striking and utterly delicious, Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake is about to become your new obsession! This creamy, dreamy creation takes the earthy sophistication of Japanese matcha and swirls it right into silky cheesecake, all nestled atop a classic graham cracker crust. It’s rich, tangy, and just sweet enough, highlighted by the vibrant green hue of matcha and a subtle flavor that’s as gorgeous on the plate as it is on your palate. Whether you’re already a matcha devotee or just love adventures in baking, this dessert delivers pure joy by the forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake is how it transforms simple, familiar ingredients into a show-stopping treat. Each one is essential—bringing something special to the final flavor, creamy texture, or that unforgettable green color. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few handy tips for best results.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Set the foundation with just the right crunch and a touch of sweetness to compliment the matcha flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness builds in both the crust and filling, making every bite perfectly balanced.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the graham cracker crust and gives it a pleasantly rich finish.
- Cream cheese (softened): The superstar of any cheesecake—make sure it’s room temperature for a smooth, lump-free texture.
- More granulated sugar: Elevates the tangy notes in the cream cheese without overpowering the matcha.
- Matcha green tea powder: Go for ceremonial or high-quality culinary grade for vivid color and pure, earthy flavor.
- Large eggs: These provide structure and help give the cheesecake its irresistibly creamy consistency.
- Sour cream: Adds a touch of tang and lightness, keeping the filling from tasting too dense.
- Vanilla extract: A dash brings warmth and depth, tying together the green tea and creamy cheesecake flavors.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to help the cheesecake set beautifully without cracks.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the other flavors—don’t skip this step!
How to Make Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture resembles wet sand—uniform, but not too soggy. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to help it set and develop flavor, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese
Place the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Beat it on medium speed until it’s completely smooth—this is your secret to a velvety cheesecake filling. Gradually add the remaining ¾ cup of sugar, and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and creamy, with no lumps.
Step 3: Add the Matcha and Eggs
Sprinkle the matcha green tea powder over your cream cheese mixture. Mix until the color is bright and uniform, resisting the urge to over-beat. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth texture and helps prevent any pockets of egg that could cause cracks or uneven baking. The batter should now have that signature green color and a pleasingly thick consistency.
Step 4: Finish the Filling
Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Blend on low until just combined—you don’t want to introduce too much air, or your cheesecake could rise and fall during baking. Be sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl so everything is perfectly mixed. Now pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for picture-perfect results.
Step 5: Bake and Chill
Transfer your cheesecake to the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Look for a center that’s just set and slightly jiggly—the edges will be firmer. When it’s done, turn off the oven and crack the door open just slightly. Let the cheesecake rest in the gentle warmth for one hour, which helps prevent cracks. Once cooled, move the cheesecake to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. Finally, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This chilling time is where all those flavors meld and the texture becomes luscious.
How to Serve Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Garnishes
This cheesecake looks stunning on its own, but a few thoughtful garnishes can make each slice even more dazzling. Try a gentle dusting of extra matcha powder for bold visual appeal and an extra hit of green tea flavor. Add dollops of whipped cream, a scattering of ruby-red berries, or a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast. Edible flowers and slender chocolate curls are also beautiful finishing touches for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair your Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake with light, refreshing sides that let its flavors shine. A fruit salad with citrus and berries offers tartness and a palate-cleansing finish, while Japanese-inspired elements like mochi or a small cup of genmaicha tea keep the theme consistent. If you’re serving a crowd, assorted Japanese cookies or matcha shortbread are wonderful on a dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For truly show-stopping presentation, think outside the standard slice! Cut the cheesecake into cubes and serve as bites on pretty skewers, or create mini cheesecakes in silicone molds for an elegant party treat. Serve with matching green tea cups for an Instagram-worthy dessert board, or layer diced cheesecake into parfait glasses with fruit and whipped cream for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve wowed everyone, keep your Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake fresh by storing leftovers in the fridge. Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. It will stay delicious and creamy for up to four days, making it a perfect treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake freezes incredibly well, so don’t hesitate to stash some away for a rainy day indulgence. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, before placing in a freezer bag or container. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to two months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving—so easy!
Reheating
This cheesecake shines best when chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, simply let a slice sit out for 20–30 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can alter the texture and cause the matcha to lose its vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use any type Dessert
While you can technically use any culinary matcha, high-quality ceremonial or premium culinary matcha will give you a brilliant green color and the purest flavor. Lower quality or old matcha can taste bitter and won’t deliver that vivid shade you want.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Cheesecakes are less likely to crack if you don’t over-mix the batter, avoid over-baking, and let them cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open. Always run a thin knife around the edge after baking to loosen it as it cools, which also helps prevent cracks.
Can Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free alternative for the crust. The filling itself is already gluten-free, so you’ll still get all the creamy, dreamy goodness.
Why does my matcha cheesecake look pale?
The color of your cheesecake depends mostly on the matcha powder you use. Ceremonial-grade matcha is more vibrant and produces a richer green. If your cheesecake looks pale, you can try adding a bit more matcha next time, but don’t overdo it since too much matcha can introduce bitterness.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead for a party?
Definitely! Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake actually improves after a night in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance, then garnish just before serving for maximum freshness and impact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to surprise your guests (or simply spoil yourself!), give Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake a try. Its stunning color, silky texture, and balanced flavors make each slice feel extra special. Don’t be shy—grab your matcha and cream cheese, and let your kitchen become the stage for this unforgettable dessert adventure!
Print
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of matcha green tea and creamy cheesecake with this simple and elegant Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake recipe. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any day.
Ingredients
Graham Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, matcha powder, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, flour, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Bake: Pour filling over crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes until set. Cool in the oven, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Use high-quality matcha powder for best results.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Allow ingredients to reach room temperature for a smooth texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
