There’s something wonderfully calming about baking with matcha. The vibrant green color, earthy aroma, and delicate flavor make every dessert feel a little more special. I still remember the first time I tasted a slice of matcha pound cake at a cozy café. Its buttery texture paired perfectly with the subtle bitterness of matcha, creating a balanced flavor that was both comforting and sophisticated.

Since then, Matcha Pound Cake has become one of my favorite treats to bake for family gatherings, afternoon tea, and special occasions. This recipe combines the richness of a traditional pound cake with the unique flavor of premium matcha powder. The result is a moist, tender cake that looks beautiful and tastes absolutely delicious.

Recipe Timing

Prep Duration: 20 minutes
Active Cooking: 15 minutes
Total Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Portion Size: 10 servings
Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

Calories per portion: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 38g
Fats: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 22g
Sodium: 170mg

Why You’ll Love This Matcha Pound Cake Recipe

This cake offers the perfect balance of buttery sweetness and earthy matcha flavor. It’s moist, rich, and wonderfully soft with a beautiful green hue that makes it stand out on any dessert table. Whether you’re a longtime matcha lover or trying it for the first time, this pound cake is an easy and delicious way to enjoy its unique taste.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Baking this Matcha Pound Cake is a delightful experience from beginning to end. As the butter and sugar come together into a fluffy batter, the addition of matcha transforms it into a vibrant green masterpiece. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Once cooled and sliced, each piece reveals a soft, tender crumb that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp matcha powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup whole milk

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Transfer the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and serve once completely cooled.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve Matcha Pound Cake with green tea, jasmine tea, or a freshly brewed cup of coffee. For an extra indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to one week for extended freshness. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

Use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and color.
Bring all ingredients to room temperature before baking.
Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added.
Check the cake near the end of baking to prevent overbaking.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Add white chocolate chips to the batter.
Drizzle the cake with a simple matcha glaze.
Mix in chopped pistachios for extra texture.
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for brightness.
Swirl cream cheese into the batter before baking.

Reader Questions & Solutions

Can I use culinary-grade matcha?

Yes, culinary-grade matcha works well for baking and provides excellent flavor.

Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking is the most common cause. Check for doneness a few minutes early.

Can I freeze Matcha Pound Cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I get a brighter green color?

Use fresh, high-quality matcha powder and avoid overbaking.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavor often improves after resting for a day.

Wrapping Up

This Matcha Pound Cake Recipe is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. Its rich buttery texture and delicate matcha flavor make it ideal for afternoon tea, celebrations, or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home. With its beautiful appearance and delicious taste, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking collection. Gather your ingredients and enjoy creating a dessert that’s both simple and unforgettable.

Matcha Pound Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

A moist and buttery pound cake infused with vibrant matcha powder, creating a perfectly balanced dessert with a delicate earthy flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp matcha powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add Eggs: Mix in eggs one at a time and add vanilla.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, matcha, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Everything: Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
Transfer the Batter: Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

For the best flavor and vibrant color, use fresh matcha powder and avoid overmixing the batter. This cake pairs wonderfully with tea and can be made a day ahead for even better flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 170mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg