Picture this: you're craving something sweet, elegant, and utterly unique. What if I told you that our matcha tiramisu recipe combines the best of Italian tradition with Japanese sophistication? This no-bake matcha tiramisu recipe creates layers of creamy mascarpone infused with earthy green tea powder, creating a dessert that's both familiar and exciting.
I've been perfecting this matcha tiramisu recipe for years, and trust me when I say it never fails to impress guests. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to something special, this matcha tiramisu recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen. The beautiful green layers make it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious!
Why This Japanese-Italian Fusion Dessert Will Become Your New Favorite
This isn't just another dessert recipe; it's a cultural bridge between two incredible culinary traditions. The classic Italian tiramisu gets a modern makeover with premium matcha powder, creating something truly special. What makes this matcha tiramisu recipe stand out is its perfect balance of bitter matcha and sweet mascarpone cream.
I remember the first time I served this matcha tiramisu recipe at a family gathering. My Italian grandmother was skeptical at first, but after one bite, she declared it "bellissimo!" The combination of traditional ladyfinger biscuits with matcha-infused cream creates layers of flavor that dance on your tongue. This matcha tiramisu recipe has since become our family's signature dessert for special occasions.
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Ingredients
- Egg yolks
- Granulated sugar
- Mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- Heavy whipping cream
- Premium matcha powder, plus extra for dusting
- Strong green tea, cooled
- Sugar (for tea mixture)
- Ladyfinger cookies
- Powdered sugar
Optional Enhancements
- Sea salt
- Honey (for extra sweetness)
- Vanilla extract
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare the Matcha Cream Base
- In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and thick (about 5 minutes).
- Add room-temperature mascarpone to the egg mixture, whisking until completely smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift matcha powder to remove any lumps.
- Gradually fold the sifted matcha powder into the mascarpone mixture until evenly combined.
Create the Whipped Cream Layer
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the matcha mascarpone mixture.
- Continue folding in remaining whipped cream in two more additions until just combined.
- Be careful not to overmix; the mixture should be light and airy.
Prepare the Matcha Tea Mixture
- Brew strong green tea and let it cool completely to room temperature.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar until dissolved.
- Transfer the sweetened tea to a shallow dish for easy dipping.
- The tea should be flavorful but not bitter; adjust sweetness if needed.
Assemble Your Matcha Tiramisu Recipe
- Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the matcha tea mixture, ensuring they're moist but not soggy.
- Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer in your serving dish.
- Spread half of the matcha cream mixture over the first layer of cookies.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining cream.
Expert Cooking Tips
Temperature Control Secrets
- Getting the temperature right is crucial for this matcha tiramisu recipe. Your mascarpone should be at room temperature to prevent lumps. Cold mascarpone will create a grainy texture that's impossible to fix. Take it out of the fridge at least an hour before starting.
Matcha Quality Matters
- Choose ceremonial-grade matcha for the most vibrant color and clean taste
- Sift your matcha powder twice to prevent any bitter clumps
- Store matcha in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and color
- Don't substitute regular green tea powder; it won't give the same results
Assembly Techniques
- The key to perfect layers lies in your dipping technique. Each ladyfinger should spend exactly 2-3 seconds in the tea mixture. Too long and they'll fall apart; too short and they'll be dry. Work quickly but don't rush the process.
Timing Is Everything
- This matcha tiramisu recipe actually improves with time. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, creating a more cohesive dessert. Plan to make it at least 6 hours before serving, though 24 hours is ideal for the best texture and flavor development.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Dietary Modifications
- Transform this matcha tiramisu recipe to fit various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For a lighter version, substitute half the mascarpone with Greek yogurt. The result is still creamy but with fewer calories and added protein.
- Vegan Alternative: Replace mascarpone with cashew cream (soaked cashews blended with coconut cream). Use aquafaba instead of egg yolks and coconut whipped cream. The texture changes slightly, but the matcha flavor remains prominent.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Matcha Fusion: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to create chocolate-matcha layers
- Tropical Twist: Include finely shredded coconut in the cream mixture
- Citrus Brightener: Add lemon zest to the cream for a fresh contrast to the earthy matcha
- Nutty Enhancement: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts between layers
Texture Modifications
For those who prefer different textures, try these adaptations:
- Replace ladyfingers with matcha sponge cake for a more cake-like dessert
- Add a layer of matcha-flavored gelatin for extra firmness
- Include crushed matcha cookies for textural contrast
Equipment Recommendations
- Creating the perfect matcha tiramisu recipe requires the right tools. A stand mixer makes whipping cream effortless and ensures proper volume. Hand mixers work too, but expect to spend more time achieving the right consistency.
Essential Tools:
- Large mixing bowls (at least 3)
- Electric mixer (stand or hand)
- Fine-mesh sieve for sifting matcha
- Rubber spatula for gentle folding
- 9x13 inch dish or individual serving glasses
- Plastic wrap for covering
Nice-to-Have Equipment:
- Offset spatula for smooth layering
- Bench scraper for clean edges
- Pastry brush for even tea application
Choose a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful green layers. Individual serving glasses create an elegant presentation for dinner parties.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigeration Guidelines
- This matcha tiramisu recipe stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when properly covered. Always use plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then add a second layer over the entire dish.
Make-Ahead Strategy
- The beauty of this dessert lies in its make-ahead nature. Prepare it completely up to 2 days in advance. The flavors actually improve as they meld together. Just add the final dusting of matcha powder right before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- While not traditional, you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours before serving. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Serving Temperature
- Serve chilled but not ice-cold. Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to bloom. This matcha tiramisu recipe tastes best when the cream is soft and creamy rather than firm.
Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
Here's what transformed my ordinary matcha tiramisu recipe into something extraordinary: the double-sift technique and temperature harmony. I learned this from my Japanese friend's grandmother who insisted that matcha must be sifted twice through the finest mesh possible. This eliminates every single lump and creates the smoothest, most vibrant cream.
The second secret involves temperature control throughout the entire process. Every component should be at the perfect temperature when combined. Room temperature mascarpone, properly chilled cream, and cooled (not cold) tea create harmony in texture. This matcha tiramisu recipe fails when ingredients fight against each other due to temperature differences. Master this balance,
FAQ
What is a matcha tiramisu?
A matcha tiramisu recipe is a Japanese-Italian fusion dessert that combines traditional tiramisu elements with matcha green tea powder. Instead of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, this version uses green tea, and the cream is infused with high-quality matcha for an earthy, sophisticated flavor.
What shouldn't you mix with matcha?
Avoid mixing matcha with very acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, as they can make the matcha taste bitter and change its color. Also, don't combine matcha with hot dairy initially, as it can cause the proteins to curdle and affect your matcha tiramisu recipe's smooth texture.
What tea goes well with tiramisu?
Green tea, especially matcha, pairs beautifully with tiramisu's creamy richness. Earl Grey and jasmine tea also complement the dessert's sweetness. For this matcha tiramisu recipe, use a mild green tea for soaking the ladyfingers to maintain flavor balance.
Is drinking matcha every day ok?
Yes, drinking matcha daily is generally safe for most people. Matcha contains beneficial antioxidants and provides sustained energy without the crash associated with coffee. However, limit intake to 1-2 cups daily due to caffeine content, especially when also enjoying desserts like this matcha tiramisu recipe.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With These Delicious Treats
Now that you've mastered this incredible matcha tiramisu recipe, why not expand your dessert repertoire? The same attention to detail and quality ingredients that make this matcha tiramisu recipe special will serve you well in other elegant desserts. These complementary recipes use similar techniques and will impress your guests just as much.
Consider trying our Matcha Panna Cotta Recipe for another stunning green tea dessert that's equally elegant but with a different texture profile. The silky smooth panna cotta showcases matcha in a completely different way while maintaining the sophisticated flavor profile you love in this matcha tiramisu recipe. For chocolate lovers, our Chocolate Truffle Cake Recipe offers the same level of indulgence with rich, decadent layers that pair beautifully with the light, airy quality of this matcha tiramisu recipe. Both desserts complement this matcha tiramisu recipe perfectly for a dessert menu that will leave everyone talking about your culinary skills.
With love from my kitchen to yours
By Lisa Johnson 💚
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Matcha Tiramisu Recipe
Matcha Tiramisu Recipe
Equipment
- 3 Large mixing bowls At least three
- 1 Electric mixer Stand or hand
- 1 Fine-mesh sieve For sifting matcha
- 1 Rubber spatula For gentle folding
- 1 9x13 inch dish / serving glasses Glass dish recommended
- 1 Plastic wrap To cover dessert
- 1 Offset spatula (optional) For smooth layering
- 1 Bench scraper (optional) For clean edges
- 1 Pastry brush (optional) For dipping tea evenly
Ingredients
Cream Base
- 6 Egg yolks
- ¾ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups Mascarpone cheese Room temperature
- 3 tablespoon Premium matcha powder Plus extra for dusting
Whipped Cream
- 1 ¾ cups Heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup Powdered sugar
Tea Mixture
- 1 cup Strong green tea Cooled
- 2 tablespoon Sugar For tea mixture
Assembly
- 2 packages (7 oz each) Ladyfinger cookies
- 1 tablespoon Honey Optional, for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Optional
- 1 pinch Sea salt Optional
Instructions
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick.
- Add mascarpone and fold in sifted matcha powder.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks.
- Fold whipped cream into the matcha mascarpone mixture.
- Brew strong green tea, stir in sugar, and let cool.
- Dip each ladyfinger quickly in the tea mixture.
- Layer dipped ladyfingers and matcha cream in dish.
- Repeat layers, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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