Matcha Pound Cake Recipe
If you are looking for a unique, elegant dessert that combines rich buttery texture with a delicate tea flavor, Matcha Pound Cake (抹茶パウンドケーキ) is a must-try. This vibrant green tea cake has become increasingly popular in the U.S., thanks to the rise of matcha in drinks and desserts. With its moist crumb, subtle bitterness, and beautiful color, this cake is perfect for afternoon tea, special gatherings, or simply elevating your everyday baking.
What is Matcha Pound Cake?
Matcha Pound Cake is a classic buttery pound cake infused with matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. Traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha has a bold, slightly bitter flavor and a rich aroma that sets it apart from regular green tea.
When incorporated into a pound cake, matcha creates a perfect balance of flavors. The natural bitterness of the tea complements the sweetness of sugar and the richness of butter, resulting in a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. Its signature deep green color also makes it visually stunning—ideal for entertaining or gifting.
Unlike traditional pound cake, which is known for its dense, rich texture, Matcha Pound Cake adds a layer of complexity with its earthy notes and fragrant finish. It’s a beautiful fusion of Japanese and Western baking styles.
Tips for Making The Best Matcha Pound Cake
1. Use Enough Matcha Powder
The key to achieving a distinct matcha flavor is not to skimp on the powder. Matcha’s aroma can fade during baking, so using a generous amount ensures the flavor remains noticeable. It also helps achieve that vibrant green color that makes this cake so appealing.
2. Choose the Right Matcha Grade
You don’t need ceremonial-grade matcha for baking. A good-quality culinary-grade matcha works perfectly and is more cost-effective. High-grade matcha is better reserved for drinking.
3. Sift the Matcha Powder
Matcha tends to clump easily. Sifting it together with the flour before mixing it into the batter helps distribute the powder evenly throughout the batter, resulting in a smoother texture and consistent color.
4. Balance the Bitterness
Matcha naturally has a slightly bitter taste. Make sure your sugar and butter ratios are well balanced to complement—not overpower—the tea flavor.
Short Video
More Matcha Dessert Recipes
- Matcha Warabi Mochi Recipe
- Matcha Tiramisu Recipe
- Matcha Financier Recipe
- Matcha Chiffon Cake Recipe
- Matcha Chocolate Truffle Recipe
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Ingredients
- 3 whole eggs (room temperature)
- 3 egg yolks (room temperature)
- 3 Tbsp water
- 7 oz cake flour
- 3 Tbsp Matcha powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz butter (room temperature)
- 9 oz sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the inside of a 9″ × 5″ loaf pan (bottom 8″ × 4″).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and water. In another bowl, sift together the cake flour, matcha powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat with the paddle attachment for 2 minutes. Gradually add the sugar in 4–5 additions, then continue beating for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes very light in color and fluffy.
- Slowly add the egg mixture in 4–5 additions, mixing over about 5 minutes. Fold in the flour mixture by hand in 4–5 additions until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for about 1 hour, or until done. Let the cake cool slightly, then remove it from the pan. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
The recipe was originally published on May 21, 2017. The post was fully updated on March 30, 2026 with revised text, new photos, and a short video.
I was a bit confused when making this because I didn’t understand the ingredients. when it came to eggs I wasn’t sure what it meant by 3 eggs and 3 yolks. I simply put in 6 eggs because I was a bit confused and when I was mixing everything the consistency was very off. I just put it in the oven so I’m not really sure how it’s going to turn out, the cake looks delicious but I’m not sure what to do now.