Did you know matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, has up to 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea? This shows how a simple ingredient can make your baking better and healthier. If you love vegan desserts, get ready to enjoy a moist, fluffy, and rich vegan matcha cake. It’s a favorite among those who love this unique flavor.
This easy vegan baking recipe is perfect for any occasion, like birthday parties or tea with friends. It only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll be proud to serve a cake that looks great and is good for you.
To make this delicious cake with Vanilla Lemon Cream Frosting, check out the full recipe here. Your taste buds will love it!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This vegan matcha cake yields 9 delicious pieces.
- Preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, while cooking requires around 50 minutes.
- The cake features vibrant matcha powder, adding not only flavor but also health benefits.
- Storage is easy; leftover cake lasts up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- The recipe includes wholesome ingredients, suitable for various dietary preferences.
- You can enjoy this cake as a guilt-free dessert that impresses at any gathering.
- For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh or frozen raspberries to the cake batter.
Introduction to Vegan Baking
Vegan baking is getting more popular. People choose plant-based desserts for health and ethical reasons. It’s all about swapping animal products for plant-based ones. You can make tasty treats with plant milk, vegan butter, and other dairy-free ingredients.
For dairy-free baking, knowing the right mix is key. Using unsweetened nondairy milk makes cakes and cookies moist. This lets you get creative with your vegan dessert ideas. For instance, a delicious Vegan Matcha Mug Cake is easy to make with the right substitutes. For more, see this guide on vegan baking.
Adding unique flavors and textures is important. Exploring vegan ingredients is good for the planet and offers healthy choices. With practice and the right tips, anyone can become a pro at vegan baking. They can make plant-based desserts that are both tasty and good for you.
What is Matcha and Its Benefits?
Matcha is a finely ground powder from green tea leaves. It’s known for its unique taste and health perks. Unlike regular tea, matcha is whisked into hot water or milk. This gives it a vibrant green color and a bold flavor, perfect for desserts like green tea cake.
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, which fight oxidative stress and boost well-being. It has caffeine and L-theanine, which help you relax yet stay alert. This makes it a hit for those looking for mental clarity.
Adding matcha powder to baked goods brings flavor, color, and nutrition. A vegan matcha cake is a tasty treat that’s also good for you. It has a mix of carbs, protein, and fats.
This vegan treat has about 268 calories per serving. It’s a guilt-free pleasure. Enjoying a slice of green tea cake combines American and Japanese flavors. Matcha powder can change your baking and health journey.
| Nutrition per Slice | Calories | Fat | Sodium | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegan Matcha Cake | 399 | 15g | 180mg | 62g | 1g | 42g | 4g |
Ingredients for Your Vegan Matcha Cake
To make a tasty vegan matcha cake, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients make the cake both delicious and light. Here, we explain the key ingredients and suggest substitutes for a dairy-free cake.
Key Ingredients Explained
Start by gathering these ingredients for a great vegan matcha cake:
- Matcha Powder: 6 teaspoons (14g) give the cake its bright green color and special taste. Use high-quality matcha like Ippodo, Kiyo, or Aiya for the best flavor.
- Cake Flour: 2½ cups (300g) make the cake light and fluffy. For a gluten-free version, try King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour.
- Granulated Sugar: 1½ cups (300g) add sweetness and keep the cake moist.
- Baking Powder: 3 teaspoons help the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- Vegan Butter: 12 tablespoons (170g) add richness to the cake’s flavor.
- Plant Milk: 1½ cups (355ml), like almond or soy milk, keep the cake moist.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 teaspoons (10ml) balance the flavors and help the cake rise.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons (10ml) enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Egg Replacer: 2 teaspoons help the cake hold together in vegan baking.
Substitutions for a Dairy-Free Experience
For a dairy-free cake, make these simple swaps:
- Plant-Based Milks: Use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of dairy milk.
- Vegan Butter: Brands like Earth Balance mimic regular butter’s richness.
- Vegan Whipped Cream: For frosting, use a vegan whipped cream recipe or two pints of your favorite brand.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with rice flour and adjust the baking powder for fluffiness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Matcha Powder | 6 teaspoons (14g) | Color and flavor |
| Cake Flour | 2½ cups (300g) | Structure |
| Granulated Sugar | 1½ cups (300g) | Sweetness and moisture |
| Baking Powder | 3 teaspoons | Leavening agent |
| Vegan Butter | 12 tablespoons (170g) | Richness |
| Plant Milk | 1½ cups (355ml) | Moisture |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 teaspoons (10ml) | Flavor enhancer |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons (10ml) | Flavor depth |
| Egg Replacer | 2 teaspoons | Binding agent |
How to Make Vegan Matcha Cake
Making vegan matcha cake is fun. It’s full of flavor and looks great. Get ready to bake with these easy steps. You’ll get a cake that’s fluffy and vibrant, perfect for any event.
Preparation Steps for the Cake Batter
First, get all your ingredients and tools ready. Measure everything carefully for the best results. Using a digital scale for grams can really help.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 6-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a big bowl, mix dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and matcha powder.
- In another bowl, whisk wet ingredients: soy milk, apple cider vinegar, vanilla, and oil.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently. Don’t overmix to keep the cake fluffy.
- Pour the batter into the pans and smooth the top with a spatula.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Cake
Here are some tips to make your vegan baking easier:
- Keep an eye on the baking time to keep the cake green. Overbaking can make it brown.
- Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then on a wire rack.
- Wrap the cooled cakes in plastic wrap. This keeps them moist for frosting.
Vegan Matcha Cake: Assembling and Frosting
After your vegan matcha cake layers cool, it’s time to put them together. Start by making a vegan matcha frosting. Mix dairy-free whipping cream, powdered sugar, and matcha powder. This frosting will make your cake taste amazing and look green.
To make sure your cake layers are even, use a cake leveler or a sharp knife. This is key for a nice-looking cake. Place one layer on a cake board or plate. Spread the matcha buttercream evenly on top.
Put the second layer on top and press it gently. Then, cover the whole cake with a thin layer of frosting to catch any crumbs. Chill it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. After that, add a final layer of frosting and smooth it out.
Decorate your cake with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of matcha powder. This makes your cake look and taste great. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
This cake makes six servings and takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It bakes at 350°F for 25 minutes. Using grams for measurements helps get the best results. Learning how to frost and decorate your cake makes it a showstopper.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Baking Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooling Time for Frosting | 30-45 minutes in the freezer |
| Serving Size | 6 servings |
| Recommended Tools | Food scale, measuring spoons, electric mixer, rubber spatula, cooling rack, sharp knife, cake board, piping bag, offset spatula, bench scraper |
Serving Suggestions for Your Matcha Dessert
When serving vegan matcha cake, how you present it matters a lot. This cake has a unique earthy taste that goes well with many things.
- Serve slices with a cup of herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint.
- Top it with non-dairy ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Add fresh berries or mint sprigs for a refreshing touch.
Make sure your cake looks good. A rectangular slate board by Frieling makes it look chic. Or, use the Pearly White Wavy Paper Salad Plate from Sophistiplate for elegance.
For a special touch, drizzle vegan matcha royal icing on the cake. It’s made from powdered sugar and matcha powder. It tastes great and looks beautiful.
Don’t like chocolate? Roll your cake bites in shredded coconut or pistachios. They look great on a platter or as individual treats.
Every serving is a mix of looks and taste. Offering different plant-based options makes everyone happy. Pairing this dessert with the right things makes it more than just a treat. It’s an experience.
Storage Tips for Your Vegan Matcha Cake
After baking your vegan matcha cake, it’s key to store it right. This keeps it moist and flavorful. Here are some storage tips for vegan desserts to help your cake stay fresh.
Freezing cake layers is a good idea if you’ve made them ahead. Wrap them tightly in cling film. They can stay good for up to a month this way. It lets you enjoy fresh cake whenever you want.
For frosted cakes, the fridge is best. A frosted vegan matcha cake can stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge. For a few days, keep it at room temperature. Just make sure it’s covered to avoid drying out.
- Frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to a month or in the freezer for three months.
- Vegan cakes made with oil can last up to seven days at room temperature.
- Once cut, aim to consume the cake within three to four days for the best taste.
Store vegan sponges with cling film for about five days. But, it’s best to eat them within three to five days for the best texture. If your cake has frosting, refrigerate it right after baking. This helps firm up the icing, making it easier to slice and serve.
By following these storage tips for vegan desserts, you keep your vegan matcha cake’s flavors delightful. Proper storage makes your baking experience even better. For more vegan recipe ideas, check out this resource on vegan mini bundt cakes.
Health Benefits of Matcha in Desserts
Adding matcha to your desserts makes them taste better and is good for you. Matcha is full of protective polyphenols, making it a key part of a healthy diet. A vegan matcha cake, for example, is not only tasty but also packed with antioxidants.
These antioxidants may help lower inflammation and the risk of diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that boosts GABA levels. GABA helps calm your mind and promotes relaxation. So, enjoying matcha desserts can help you relax and feel less stressed.
Moreover, matcha’s mix of caffeine and plant compounds can increase your metabolic rate. This might help burn fat and support weight control.
Matcha can also improve your gut health and how your body responds to insulin. This helps manage blood sugar levels. With just a bit of matcha powder, you get important nutrients like protein and fiber. So, you can enjoy your matcha dessert without feeling guilty.
When you eat this vegan matcha cake, you’re getting a treat that’s both delicious and nutritious.
F.A.Q
What makes vegan matcha cake a great dessert option?
Vegan matcha cake is a top pick for those who care about their health. It’s soft, light, and full of matcha flavor. It’s ideal for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea, fitting both plant-based and dairy-free diets.
Can I make this vegan matcha cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap plain flour with a gluten-free mix in the recipe. Make sure all your ingredients meet your gluten-free needs.
What are the key health benefits of matcha?
Matcha is full of antioxidants and boosts your metabolism. It also gives you a calm yet alert feeling. Adding matcha to desserts lets you enjoy its health perks while savoring sweet treats.
How can I store my vegan matcha cake to keep it fresh?
Keep your vegan matcha cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. If it’s frosted, refrigeration helps keep the frosting firm.
What are some good pairings for vegan matcha cake?
Pair vegan matcha cake with herbal teas or non-dairy ice creams. These pairings enhance matcha’s earthy taste, offering a refreshing dessert.
Is it difficult to make vegan matcha cake?
No way! This recipe is easy and works for all baking levels. It’s ready in about two hours, making it a simple vegan baking project.
Can I use other plant milks in the recipe?
Absolutely! Try almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk you like. Pick one that fits your dietary needs for a dairy-free treat.
How do I make the matcha frosting?
For the matcha frosting, mix vegan butter, matcha powder, powdered sugar, and a bit of plant milk until smooth. This makes a tasty, dairy-free buttercream that goes great with the cake.
What is the best way to prevent overbaking the cake?
Watch your cake closely in the last few minutes of baking. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
