Matcha, the vibrant green tea powder from Japan, has taken the world by storm with its unique flavour and numerous health benefits.
In Australia, matcha has become a popular ingredient in a wide range of desserts, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and a hint of bitterness. We introduce the 14 best matcha desserts you must try in Australia.
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and then discarded, matcha involves consuming the entire leaf, providing a more concentrated source of nutrients. Traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha has become popular worldwide due to its vibrant colour, unique taste, and health benefits.
5 Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is known for its numerous health benefits, which include:
1. Rich in Antioxidants:
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
2. Boosts Metabolism:
The combination of caffeine and catechins in matcha can help boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
3. Enhances Focus and Calmness:
Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and enhances focus without the jittery effects of caffeine.
4. Supports Detoxification:
The chlorophyll in matcha helps detoxify the body by removing heavy metals and chemical toxins.
5. Improves Skin Health:
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of matcha can help improve skin health and reduce the signs of ageing.
Matcha Latte
One of the most popular ways to enjoy matcha is in the form of a matcha latte. A matcha latte is a creamy, frothy beverage made by mixing matcha powder with milk (or a dairy-free alternative) and a sweetener of choice. It’s a great alternative to coffee, offering a smooth, slightly grassy flavour with a hint of sweetness. Matcha lattes can be enjoyed hot or iced, making them a versatile and refreshing drink for any time of the year.
Recipe for Matcha Latte
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon matcha powder
2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk)
1-2 teaspoons honey, sugar, or any preferred sweetener
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Matcha:
Sift the matcha powder into a bowl to remove any lumps. Add the hot water (not boiling) and whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a regular small whisk until the matcha is fully dissolved and a frothy layer forms on top.
2. Heat the Milk:
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Alternatively, you can heat the milk in a microwave.
3. Combine and Sweeten:
Pour the hot milk into a cup. Add the whisked matcha and sweetener of choice. Stir well to combine. If you prefer an iced matcha latte, let the milk cool and pour it over ice before adding the matcha and sweetener.
4. Serve:
Enjoy your matcha latte immediately. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra matcha powder on top for garnish.
14 Best Matcha Desserts
1. Matcha Cheesecake
Matcha cheesecake is a perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and the earthy flavour of matcha. The rich, smooth texture of the cheesecake complements the slightly bitter taste of matcha, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. This dessert is quite popular among the variation of matcha desserts that many cafes in Australia offer these days.
2. Matcha Tiramisu
A twist on the classic Italian dessert, matcha tiramisu replaces the traditional coffee with matcha, resulting in a lighter and more refreshing dessert. Layers of matcha-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and matcha powder create a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.
3. Matcha Ice Cream
Matcha ice cream is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the refreshing taste of matcha in a cool, creamy form. Available in many ice cream parlours across Australia. This matcha dessert is perfect for hot summer days.
4. Matcha Macarons
Macarons, the delicate French confections, get an Asian twist with the addition of matcha. These bite-sized treats have a crispy exterior and a chewy interior, filled with a creamy matcha ganache.
5. Matcha Mille Crepe Cake
The matcha mille crepe cake is a masterpiece of thin matcha-infused crepes layered with light matcha pastry cream. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful combination of flavours and textures.
6. Matcha Donuts
Matcha donuts are a delicious way to enjoy the unique flavour of matcha in a popular snack form. These donuts are usually glazed with sweet matcha icing, balancing the bitterness of matcha with the sweetness of the glaze.
7. Matcha Lava Cake
A modern take on the classic chocolate lava cake, the matcha lava cake has a warm, gooey centre filled with rich matcha ganache. This dessert is a must-try for matcha lovers looking for a decadent treat.
8. Matcha Pancakes
Matcha pancakes are a delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines fluffy pancakes with the distinctive flavour of matcha. Often served with a dollop of matcha whipped cream or a drizzle of matcha syrup, these pancakes are a great way to start your day.
9. Matcha Panna Cotta
Matcha panna cotta is a creamy, custard-like dessert infused with the delicate taste of matcha. The smooth texture of panna cotta pairs beautifully with the earthy flavour of matcha, making it a perfect ending to any meal.
10. Matcha Brownies
Matcha brownies are a delightful twist on traditional chocolate brownies, making them a standout among matcha desserts. These green-hued treats are dense and fudgy, and have a unique flavour profile thanks to the addition of matcha. Perfect for anyone looking to explore the delicious world of matcha desserts, these brownies offer a harmonious blend of earthy matcha and rich, chocolatey goodness.
11. Matcha Parfait
A matcha parfait is a layered dessert that typically includes matcha-flavoured yoghurt, granola, and fresh fruits. This dessert is both healthy and satisfying, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy matcha in a lighter form.
12. Matcha Roll Cake
The matcha roll cake is a fluffy sponge cake rolled with matcha-infused whipped cream. This dessert is light, airy, and perfect for matcha enthusiasts.
13. Matcha Mochi
Mochi, the chewy Japanese rice cake, gets an upgrade with the addition of matcha. Matcha mochi is soft, slightly sweet, and has a unique texture that makes it a popular choice among dessert lovers.
14. Matcha Cream Puffs
Matcha cream puffs are light, airy pastries filled with rich matcha custard. The combination of the crispy pastry shell and the smooth, creamy filling makes for an irresistible dessert.
Matcha Samurai
We are pleased to introduce Matcha Samurai, your premier source for exceptional quality matcha. Our authentic, organic matcha is meticulously sourced directly from Japan, ensuring the finest taste and purity. Easily order online and have it conveniently shipped to your door throughout Australia and New Zealand. Visit the website and discover the unparalleled quality of Matcha Samurai.
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