Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a cake that combines vibrant flavors with an elegant look, this Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the delicate earthly notes of matcha powder woven effortlessly with the bright, sweet tang of strawberry in both the cake and the luscious buttercream frosting. This cake is a celebration of texture and color, boasting tender layers that are moist and fluffy, complemented by a strawberry buttercream so rich yet refreshing. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy treat, this recipe brings a stunning fusion of Japanese-inspired matcha with the classic comfort of strawberry into one delightful cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this cake starts with a handful of simple, thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the cake flour that creates a tender crumb, to the matcha powder that infuses the batter with those signature green hues and delicate bitterness, and finally, the strawberry components that brighten the taste and bring vibrant color to the frosting.

• Cake flour (2 3/4 cups / 330g): Provides a light, tender texture essential for a soft cake crumb.
• Granulated sugar (2 1/2 cups / 500g + 2 1/2 cups / 500g): Adds balanced sweetness to both the cake and the frosting.
• Matcha powder (3 Tbsp / 18g): Delivers that unmistakable earthy, green tea flavor and vibrant green color.
• Baking powder (2 1/2 tsp / 10g): Gives the cake its lift and airy texture.
• Fine salt (1 tsp + 1/2 tsp / 6g + 3g): Enhances all flavors, creating depth and balance.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup + 2 cups / 226g + 454g): Used at room temperature to enrich the cake and create creamy frosting.
• Egg whites (1 cup + 8 large unites / 240g + 240g): Helps provide structure and lightness throughout the cake and frosting.
• Full-fat sour cream (1 1/2 cups / 370g): Adds moistness and a slight tang, enhancing flavor complexity.
• Vegetable or canola oil (2 Tbsp / 28g): Keeps the cake tender and moist without weighing it down.
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (1 tsp + 1 tsp / 4g + 4g): Boosts aroma and flavor vibrancy.
• Electric green gel food coloring (optional): Amplifies the green color if desired, making the cake visually stunning.
• Strawberry jam (1/2 cup + 1 1/2 cups / 150g + 450g): Adds natural sweetness and strawberry flavor in the frosting and between layers.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 Tbsp / 15g): Brings brightness and balances sweetness in the frosting.
• Freeze-dried strawberry powder (1/2 cup / 55g): Intensifies strawberry taste and gives a pretty pink hue to the buttercream.
• Red gel food coloring (optional): Enhances the pink color for a more eye-catching frosting.

How to Make Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preparation and Dry Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your cake pans with butter and parchment paper—this ensures your cake layers come out perfectly, without sticking. Next, sift together the dry ingredients: cake flour, granulated sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting aerates these components and helps to evenly distribute the matcha and leavening, which are key to a beautifully textured cake.

Step 2: Making the Cake Batter

Cut in the butter with the dry mixture until it forms a crumbly texture that will help build a rich crumb in the finished cake. Then, add your egg whites, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat everything until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy—this step is where the batter gains volume and lightness, a crucial texture foundation for this strawberry matcha cake recipe.

Step 3: Baking the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans to ensure uniform layers. Pop them into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Don’t skip the toothpick test here; insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, your layers are perfectly baked. Allow the cakes to cool completely before moving on to frosting to avoid melting the buttercream or jam.

Step 4: Creating the Strawberry Buttercream

In a double boiler or heatproof bowl, gently heat together the egg whites and granulated sugar until dissolved and warm to the touch. Use an electric mixer to whip this mixture into stiff, glossy peaks, which forms the base of your buttercream. Then, beat in softened butter gradually for a rich, silky texture. Add strawberry jam, lemon juice, vanilla, salt, and the freeze-dried strawberry powder, folding them in carefully. The result is a beautifully balanced frosting bursting with real strawberry flavor and a subtly tangy brightness.

Step 5: Assembling and Decorating the Cake

With your layers cooled, spread a generous amount of strawberry jam between them to amplify the strawberry essence. Frost the entire cake with your vibrant strawberry buttercream. For the final touch, decorate however you love—with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of frozen-dried strawberry powder, or a delicate dusting of matcha to highlight the cake’s dual-flavored fame. This step is where your cake transforms from delicious to gorgeous.

How to Serve Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is a wonderful opportunity to play with texture and enhance visual appeal. Fresh strawberries sliced on top add juiciness and natural sweetness. Dusting lightly with matcha powder complements the cake’s earthy notes, while a scattering of freeze-dried strawberry powder reinforces that bright strawberry flavor and adds a delightful crunch. These simple touches turn your Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe into an elegant showstopper.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to offset its richness. For a tea party or afternoon treat, serve alongside a light green tea or a fruity herbal infusion that echoes the cake’s matcha and strawberry notes, creating a harmonious flavor experience. Each bite of the cake feels fresh and balanced when enjoyed with the right side.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Consider serving the cake on a rustic wooden board for an earthy, natural vibe or a porcelain cake stand for classic elegance. You can even slice the cake into petite squares and serve them with small skewers dipped in strawberries for a charming finger food option at parties. Another delightful idea is layering this cake inside a clear glass trifle to showcase its colorful layers and decadent frosting—guaranteed to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The buttercream frosting helps preserve moisture, so the cake remains soft and flavorful for up to 3 days. Bring slices to room temperature before serving to recapture that fresh-baked softness and delicious flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either as whole layers before assembling or as a fully frosted cake. Wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen layers stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and assemble or frost as desired. Freezing is a great way to prepare ahead for celebrations or keep the cake for a special later treat.

Reheating

Unlike some cakes, Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit out for 30 minutes to soften slightly rather than reheating in a microwave, which can cause the frosting to melt unevenly or become oily. Enjoying it as intended ensures the perfect harmony of flavors and textures every time.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites in this recipe?

For this Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe, egg whites are specifically used to create a light and airy texture. Using whole eggs will change the cake’s structure and richness, so it’s best to stick to egg whites for the intended fluffiness.

Is it okay to substitute sour cream with yogurt?

You can substitute full-fat yogurt for sour cream in a pinch, but make sure it’s plain and thick to maintain moisture and tang. Greek yogurt works well and won’t drastically alter the flavor or texture.

How important is it to use freeze-dried strawberry powder?

Freeze-dried strawberry powder intensifies the strawberry flavor and adds a lovely color to the buttercream. While optional, omitting it will slightly soften the strawberry punch in the frosting but your cake will still be delicious.

Can I make this cake vegan?

This recipe relies on egg whites and dairy butter, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can experiment with vegan egg substitutes and plant-based butter alternatives, though texture and taste will differ from the original Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe.

How do I avoid the cake collapsing after baking?

Ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature and not overmixing the batter are key steps. Also, avoid opening the oven during baking, and make sure to fully preheat your oven before putting the cake inside to help it rise properly.

Final Thoughts

Making this Strawberry Matcha Cake Recipe is like creating a little masterpiece you can share with the people you love. From the beautiful green hues and striking pink frosting to the mesmerizing fusion of flavors, this cake always brings smiles and a touch of elegance to any occasion. I hope you have as much fun baking and tasting it as I do sharing it—happy baking, and enjoy every bite!

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