Introduction
Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert known for its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. But what if we took this classic treat and gave it an elegant, Japanese-inspired twist? Enter matcha tiramisu—a no-bake, creamy, and slightly bitter-sweet dessert that replaces espresso with the earthy, vibrant flavor of matcha green tea. This matcha-flavored dessert combines the best of both worlds: the rich, indulgent texture of Italian tiramisu and the delicate, slightly bitter notes of Japanese green tea desserts. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this dessert is sure to impress with its unique flavor and beautiful presentation.
Before we dive into the best matcha tiramisu recipe, let’s explore what makes this dessert so special and why you need to add it to your baking repertoire.
What is Matcha Tiramisu?
Matcha tiramisu is a Japanese-inspired dessert that takes the traditional tiramisu recipe and swaps out the coffee for high-quality matcha powder. It consists of soft ladyfingers biscuits, soaked in a matcha-infused liquid; a luscious matcha mascarpone filling, made with mascarpone cheese, sugar, and whipped cream; and a final dusting of ceremonial-grade matcha to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Unlike traditional tiramisu, which has a strong coffee flavor, matcha tiramisu has a balance of sweetness and bitterness, giving it a refreshing and smooth finish. The creamy mascarpone blends perfectly with the matcha’s earthy taste, making each bite irresistibly light yet indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Matcha Tiramisu Recipe
✅ No baking required – Just assemble and chill! ✅ Visually stunning – The vibrant green hue of matcha makes for a striking presentation. ✅ Customizable – Make it egg-free, gluten-free, or vegan with simple substitutions. ✅ Balanced flavors – The slight bitterness of matcha cuts through the richness of the mascarpone, preventing it from being overly sweet.
Now that we know what makes this dessert special, let’s talk about the key ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients for Matcha Tiramisu
For the Matcha-Soaked Ladyfingers:
- 1 ½ tablespoons matcha powder (Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor)
- 1 ½ cups warm water or milk (For a creamier taste, use milk)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 24-30 ladyfingers biscuits (Savoiardi or gluten-free alternatives)
For the Matcha Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder, for dusting
💡 Pro Tip: When choosing matcha, opt for a high-quality matcha powder with a vibrant green color. Lower-quality matcha tends to be more bitter and dull in color. For recommendations, check out this guide on the Best Matcha Powders for Baking & Desserts.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Matcha Tiramisu
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha Soaking Liquid
- In a bowl, whisk together matcha powder, warm water (or milk), and sugar until smooth. 2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps. 3. Let it cool to room temperature before dipping the ladyfingers.
Step 2: Make the Matcha Mascarpone Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk mascarpone cheese until smooth. 2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. 3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese using a spatula. 4. Sift matcha powder into the mixture and fold until fully combined.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the cream to become too runny.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Briefly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the matcha soaking liquid (about 1-2 seconds per side). 2. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a serving dish or individual cups. 3. Spread half of the matcha mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers. 4. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results). 2. Before serving, sift a generous amount of matcha powder over the top. 3. Enjoy your homemade matcha tiramisu!
Tips for the Best Matcha Tiramisu
✅ Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers – A quick dip is enough to prevent them from becoming too soggy. ✅ Chill overnight – This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste. ✅ Use high-quality matcha – Avoid matcha that looks yellowish or brownish, as it tends to be bitter. ✅ For a gluten-free version – Use gluten-free ladyfingers. ✅ For an egg-free version – This recipe is naturally egg-free, unlike traditional tiramisu!
💡 Want to learn more about ladyfingers? Check out Choosing the Best Cookies for Tiramisu to find the perfect match for your recipe!
Matcha Tiramisu Variations
🌱 Vegan Matcha Tiramisu – Use dairy-free mascarpone and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. 🍶 Alcohol-Infused Matcha Tiramisu – Add a splash of Marsala wine or rum to the matcha mixture. 🍫 Chocolate Matcha Tiramisu – Sprinkle cocoa powder between the layers for a rich, chocolatey twist. 🥥 Coconut Matcha Tiramisu – Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and add toasted coconut flakes on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does matcha tiramisu last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed within 48 hours for optimal texture.
2. Can I freeze matcha tiramisu?
Freezing is not recommended, as the mascarpone filling may become grainy when thawed.
3. Is matcha tiramisu caffeinated?
Yes, matcha contains caffeine, but in smaller amounts than coffee. It provides a gentle energy boost without the jitters!
4. Can I make matcha tiramisu in individual cups?
Absolutely! Individual matcha tiramisu cups are great for portion control and make a beautiful presentation.
5. What’s the best matcha to use?
For the best flavor and color, use ceremonial-grade or high-quality culinary matcha. Avoid low-grade matcha, as it can taste overly bitter.
Final Thoughts
Matcha tiramisu is a stunning, creamy, and delicious fusion dessert that brings a fresh take on the beloved classic. Whether you serve it for a dinner party or simply treat yourself, this no-bake matcha dessert is sure to impress. Try this recipe, and let me know how it turns out! 😊