Matcha muffins are the perfect balance of rich, earthy matcha flavor and delicate sweetness, baked into a soft and moist muffin base. These beautifully green muffins are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, making them an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Their vibrant color is natural, derived from the high-quality matcha powder used in the batter, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings or additions. To elevate their presentation, these muffins can be topped with a luscious matcha cream cheese frosting and crushed pistachios, adding a creamy and crunchy contrast to the tender muffin.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These matcha muffins are incredibly versatile and easy to make, even for beginners. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or new to its unique flavor, this recipe ensures that the taste is balanced and appealing to a wide audience. They are also customizable with optional frosting and garnishes, making them perfect for special occasions or a simple treat. Their striking green hue and aromatic flavor make them a standout addition to any table.
Three Factors That Contribute to the Best Matcha Muffins
- High-Quality Matcha Powder: Using ceremonial or premium culinary-grade matcha ensures a vibrant color and a smooth, non-bitter taste.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The addition of yogurt and oil creates a moist crumb that stays soft for days.
- Optional Frosting and Garnishes: The matcha cream cheese frosting adds creaminess, while crushed pistachios bring a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Matcha Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sifter
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
- Hand or stand mixer (for frosting)
- Spatula
Ingredient Spotlight: Matcha Powder
Matcha powder is the star ingredient in these muffins. Derived from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha is rich in antioxidants, providing numerous health benefits, including improved focus and metabolism. It also lends a vibrant green hue and a distinct earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the muffins. Discover the incredible health benefits of matcha powder in our detailed guide: The Health Benefits of Matcha You Should Know.
Ingredient Notes
- Matcha Powder: Opt for high-quality, vibrant green matcha for the best flavor and appearance.
- Yogurt: Provides moisture and a subtle tang. Greek yogurt can also be used.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender. You can substitute with melted butter if preferred.
- Crushed Pistachios: These add a beautiful garnish and a nutty crunch, complementing the matcha flavor.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Sweetness: Adjust the sugar level to your preference or use honey as a natural sweetener.
- Add-Ins: Fold in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Frosting Alternatives: If cream cheese frosting isn’t your style, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of matcha is a great alternative.
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Sifting Matcha: Always sift matcha powder to prevent clumping in the batter or frosting.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Low-Quality Matcha: This can result in a dull color and bitter taste.
- Skipping Liners: Without liners, the muffins may stick to the pan, making removal difficult.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the muffins and test with a toothpick to avoid dryness.
Troubleshooting Guide: Fixing Common Issues
- Muffins Not Rising: Check the freshness of your baking powder and soda.
- Dry Muffins: Ensure you’re not overbaking or using too much flour.
- Frosting Too Runny: Add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Serve these muffins plain for a simple treat, or elevate them with matcha cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. They’re perfect for brunch tables, tea parties, or as an eye-catching dessert.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair matcha muffins with a warm cup of green tea, a frothy matcha latte, or a glass of almond milk. Their sweet and earthy flavor also complements fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges.
Storage Instructions
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If frosted, keep them refrigerated and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
My Favorite Tools to Make This Dish
- Muffin Tin: A non-stick muffin tin ensures even baking and easy removal.
- Hand Mixer: Perfect for whipping up the cream cheese frosting.
- Sifter: Essential for evenly incorporating matcha powder.
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- ORGANIC MATCHA GREEN TEA POWDER: Our Culinary Grade Matcha is a versatile ingredient great for everything from smoothies…
- AUTHENTIC JAPANESE MATCHA POWDER: Jade Leaf Matcha is pure shade-grown green tea leaf matcha powder – Grown Without Pest…
- BENEFITS: Our matcha green tea powder contains antioxidants which have been shown to promote overall health & wellbeing …
Matcha Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting and Pistachio
These vibrant matcha muffins are soft, moist, and full of earthy matcha flavor. Optional matcha cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch, while crushed pistachios provide a delightful crunch. Perfect for tea time or as an indulgent treat, they are as beautiful as they are delicious. Easy to make and customizable to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Frosting (Optional)
Garnish (Optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners. Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the middle for even baking.
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Sift Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a sifter to eliminate clumps of matcha powder for a smooth batter.
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Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and well combined. Make sure all wet ingredients are at room temperature to create a homogeneous mixture.
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Mix Wet and Dry
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light and tender muffin texture.
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Fill the Muffin Tin
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Use an ice cream scoop for even portioning.
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Bake and Cool
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, matcha powder, and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. Adjust the frosting consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
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Frost and Garnish
Once the muffins are completely cooled, spread or pipe the matcha cream cheese frosting on top. Sprinkle with crushed pistachios for a decorative and flavorful touch.
