Matcha brownies are where fudgy, chocolatey goodness meets the earthy, vibrant notes of matcha green tea. Imagine biting into a brownie that’s not just rich and decadent but also carries that unique matcha flavor—slightly grassy, beautifully green, and perfectly balanced with deep cocoa. The first time I tried them, I couldn’t believe how well the flavors worked together. It’s like the best of both worlds in a single, gorgeous bite.
These brownies are more than just a pretty treat; they’re packed with antioxidants from the matcha and a gentle caffeine boost that feels like a hug instead of a jolt. I love making a batch when I’m craving something sweet but want a little pick-me-up too. And trust me, they always get attention at the dessert table—everyone wants to know the secret behind that stunning green swirl.
Whether you’re looking to surprise guests with something different or treat yourself to a unique dessert, matcha brownies are an absolute must-try. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to make them perfect every time
Table Of Contents
What Are Matcha Brownies?
Matcha brownies are a modern twist on classic chocolate brownies, infused with the bold, earthy flavors of matcha green tea powder. This Japanese green tea isn’t just for lattes—it brings its signature bright green color and distinctive flavor to baked goods, making these brownies as stunning as they are delicious.
The Unique Blend of Matcha and Chocolate
At first, combining matcha with chocolate might seem unexpected, but the two are a match made in dessert heaven. The creamy richness of chocolate smooths out matcha’s slightly grassy notes, creating a perfect balance that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Every bite is like a little taste of harmony.
- Matcha’s Earthiness: Adds depth and a hint of umami
- Chocolate’s Sweetness: Balances matcha’s boldness with creamy richness
- Visual Appeal: The bright green color pops beautifully against dark chocolate
How Matcha Brownies Differ from Regular Brownies
While traditional brownies focus on deep chocolate flavor, matcha brownies are all about balance. Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | Regular Brownies | Matcha Brownies |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Rich, chocolatey, sometimes nutty | Earthy, slightly bitter, creamy chocolate |
| Color | Deep brown | Vibrant green with chocolate swirls |
| Texture | Fudgy or cakey, depending on the recipe | Soft and chewy with a delicate crumb |
| Health Benefits | High in sugar, some antioxidants | Antioxidant-rich matcha, lower in sugar |
🥭 Need the perfect drink pairing? Check out our Mango Mocktail — a refreshing, tropical delight that’s the perfect complement to your matcha treats!
Ingredients for Perfect Matcha Brownies
The secret to delicious matcha brownies is choosing the right ingredients. From high-quality matcha powder to the ideal type of chocolate, every component matters. Let’s break down exactly what you need for that signature vibrant color, rich flavor, and soft, chewy texture.
High-Quality Matcha Powder: Choosing the Right Grade
Not all matcha is created equal. For baking, it’s important to use the right grade to get the best flavor and color.
🍵 Best Matcha Grades for Baking:
- Culinary Grade Matcha: Ideal for baking. It’s slightly less vibrant but holds up well under heat.
- Premium Culinary Grade: A step up—smoother and brighter green. Perfect if you want a strong matcha flavor.
- Avoid: Low-quality matcha blends or “matcha-flavored” powders, as they may include added sugars or fillers.
Pro Tip: Always check the color. High-quality matcha should be a bright, vibrant green—not dull or yellowish.
Best Chocolate Options for Balance
Matcha’s earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the right kind of chocolate. Here’s what works best:
🍫 Chocolate Types:
- White Chocolate: The most common pairing; its creamy sweetness balances matcha’s boldness.
- Dark Chocolate (60-70% cocoa): For those who want a richer, slightly bitter contrast.
- Milk Chocolate: Adds a milder, creamy note, though it can sometimes overpower matcha.
Pro Tip: Use chocolate bars instead of chips if you want smoother melting and richer flavor.
Key Baking Ingredients: Flour, Butter, Eggs, and Sweeteners
For that perfect matcha brownie texture—fudgy, dense, and moist—you’ll need the right supporting ingredients:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Suggested Type |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Structure and chewiness | Regular or gluten-free blend if preferred |
| Unsalted Butter | Richness and moisture | Room temperature for smooth mixing |
| Eggs | Binding and fluffiness | Large eggs, ideally at room temperature |
| Sweetener | Balance to matcha’s slight bitterness | Cane sugar, coconut sugar, or monk fruit |
| Vanilla Extract | Enhances flavor depth | Pure extract for best results |
Pro Tip: For a lighter texture, sift the flour and matcha together before adding to the batter.
Ingredient Summary for Matcha Brownies:
- All-purpose flour (or gluten-free option)
- High-quality matcha powder
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Sugar (or coconut sugar for less refined)
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- White or dark chocolate (melted)
- Optional: chopped nuts or coconut flakes
🍰 Craving more guilt-free indulgence? Check out our Gluten-Free Tiramisu — a creamy, dreamy classic made without the gluten but with all the flavor!
How to Make Matcha Brownies – Step-by-Step
Making matcha brownies isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about creating that perfect balance of earthy matcha and rich chocolate in every bite. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have bakery-quality brownies fresh from your own oven.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Tools
Before you start, make sure you have everything ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Sift your all-purpose flour and matcha powder together to avoid clumps.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour (or gluten-free option)
- High-quality matcha powder
- Salt
Sifting the flour and matcha together ensures a smooth, even texture and prevents green clumps in your brownies.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, do the following:
- Unsalted butter over low heat.
- Sugar (or coconut sugar) until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Eggs, one at a time, until smooth.
- Vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
- Melted white or dark chocolate until fully combined.
💡 Make sure the butter mixture isn’t too hot before adding the eggs to avoid scrambling.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
- Mix just until combined—overmixing will make your brownies dense.
- If you’re adding extras like nuts or coconut flakes, fold them in gently.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
- Pour the batter into your prepared 8×8-inch pan.
- Evenly spread it over the surface using a spatula.
- Gently tap the pan on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the pan in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few soft crumbs..
- Avoid overbaking—matcha brownies should be slightly soft and fudgy.
💡 If the top starts to brown too quickly, lightly cover with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the brownies rest in the pan for approximately 10 minutes to cool.
- Lift the parchment paper out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut into squares and, if you like, sprinkle with a touch of extra matcha powder.
Serve with:
- A cup of green tea for a double dose of matcha
- Vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast
- A drizzle of white chocolate for added elegance
🍰 Love unique twists on classic desserts? Check out our Pistachio Cheesecake — a creamy, nutty delight that’s just as stunning as it is delicious!
Variations of Matcha Brownies
One of the best things about matcha brownies is how versatile they are. You can easily customize the recipe to match your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some of the most popular variations that take this dessert to the next level.
1. White Chocolate Matcha Brownies
For a creamier, slightly sweeter version, swap dark chocolate for white chocolate. The subtle, milky sweetness pairs perfectly with matcha’s earthy flavor, creating a balanced, vibrant green treat.
Ingredients Adjustments:
- Replace dark chocolate with ½ cup white chocolate (melted)
- Add an extra tablespoon of matcha for a more pronounced flavor
- After baking, drizzle with melted white chocolate for an elegant touch.
2. Vegan Matcha Brownies
Love matcha but want to keep it plant-based? This version swaps out butter and eggs for vegan alternatives without sacrificing that perfect chewy texture.
Ingredients Adjustments:
- Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter
- Swap eggs for flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes)
- Use dairy-free white or dark chocolate
💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of almond milk to the batter if it feels too thick.
3. Gluten-Free Matcha Brownies
To make it gluten-free, replace the flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy while making them accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
Ingredients Adjustments:
- Replace 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 cup gluten-free flour blend or ¾ cup almond flour
- Add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t include it
- Optional: Top with crushed pistachios for extra crunch
💡 Pro Tip: Be gentle when mixing gluten-free batter—it’s more delicate than standard flour.
4. Swirled Matcha Cheesecake Brownies
For a stunning visual and creamy texture, swirl a layer of cream cheese into your matcha brownie batter before baking.
Cheesecake Swirl Mixture:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Pour your matcha brownie batter into the baking pan.
- Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture on top.
- Gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake as directed, and use a toothpick to check the center for doneness.
💡 Pro Tip: For a more dramatic look, add a sprinkle of matcha powder on top before baking.
5. Matcha Blondies
If you prefer a lighter, buttery flavor, try making matcha blondies instead of brownies. Replace the chocolate with white chocolate chips and add a little extra vanilla extract for a smooth, creamy finish.
Ingredients Adjustments:
- Skip the dark chocolate and substitute with ½ cup of white chocolate chips.
- Increase the vanilla extract to 1½ teaspoons
- Add ¼ cup chopped macadamia nuts for extra crunch
💡 Pro Tip: Bake these at a slightly lower temperature (325°F) to prevent over-browning.
🍏 Craving more guilt-free desserts? Discover our Sugar-Free Apple Pie — all the classic flavors you love, with none of the added sugar. Perfect for a wholesome treat!
Toppings and Serving Suggestions
Your matcha brownies are already delicious on their own, but the right toppings and serving ideas can take them to a whole new level. From creamy drizzles to crunchy textures, here’s how to make each slice a showstopper.
1. Matcha Powder Dusting
For a simple yet elegant finish, lightly dust the top of your brownies with matcha powder after they’ve cooled. This not only deepens the green color but also brings an extra layer of flavor.
How to Do It:
- Gently dust matcha over the brownies using a fine mesh sieve for even coverage.
- Best done just before serving to keep the powder fresh and vibrant.
- For an artistic touch, use a stencil to create designs on top.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a little sweetness, mix the matcha powder with a bit of powdered monk fruit or stevia.
2. White Chocolate Drizzle
A white chocolate drizzle adds beautiful contrast to the green color and a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with matcha’s earthy notes.
How to Make It:
- Combine ¼ cup of white chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and melt.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle over the cooled brownies.
- Let it set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a tiny pinch of matcha to the white chocolate for a pastel green finish.
3. Fresh Berries and Coconut Flakes
Add a bit of freshness and color by topping your matcha brownies with sliced strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Coconut flakes also work beautifully to enhance texture.
Best Combinations:
- Strawberries + Coconut Flakes: For a tropical vibe
- Raspberries + Pistachios: Adds color and crunch
- Blueberries + Almond Slivers: Great for a breakfast-style brownie
4. Matcha Whipped Cream
For a luxurious touch, serve your brownies with a dollop of matcha-infused whipped cream.
How to Make It:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (or monk fruit sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
Whip until soft peaks form and serve immediately. It’s light, airy, and perfect for balancing out the dense, fudgy brownie.
5. Serving Suggestions
Your matcha brownies deserve a great pairing. Here’s what goes well:
- Hot Green Tea or Matcha Latte: Boosts the matcha flavor experience.
- Almond Milk or Oat Milk: Perfect for dipping, dairy-free and smooth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Its smooth, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the fudgy brownies.
- Chilled Coconut Milk: For a tropical, dairy-free alternative.
💪 Looking for a protein-packed twist? Try our Protein Brownies — rich, fudgy, and packed with the nutrients you need to power through your day!
Storage and Freezing Tips for Matcha Brownies
One of the best things about matcha brownies—besides their vibrant color and unique flavor—is how well they store. With the right methods, you can keep them moist and flavorful for days or even months. Here’s how to do it.
Storing Matcha Brownies at Room Temperature
If you plan to enjoy your brownies within a few days, storing them at room temperature works perfectly.
How to Store:
- Let the brownies cool completely after baking.
- Cut them into squares (if you haven’t already).
- Place them in an airtight container—layered with parchment paper if stacking.
- Keep it in a cool, dry spot, away from direct sunlight..
Shelf Life:
- 2–3 days at room temperature
- Keep them sealed to maintain moisture and prevent drying out
💡 Pro Tip: Place a slice of bread in the container to help keep your brownies soft and moist. The bread may dry out, but your brownies will stay perfectly tender.
❄️ Freezing Matcha Brownies for Long-Term Storage
Want to save your matcha brownies for later enjoyment? Freezing is the perfect solution. When stored correctly, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
How to Freeze:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely.
- Cut them into individual squares.
- Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place the wrapped pieces into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Label with the date and freeze.
Freezer Life:
- Up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor
💡 Pro Tip: Freeze brownies uncut if you want them to stay even fresher. Slice them after thawing for a just-baked feel.
🔄 How to Thaw and Reheat Matcha Brownies
When you’re ready to enjoy your matcha brownies again, follow these steps for the best texture:
For Thawing:
- Remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- For a quicker thaw, microwave for 15–20 seconds on medium heat.
For Reheating:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the brownies on a baking sheet and heat for 5–7 minutes.
- This refreshes the texture and makes them taste oven-fresh.
🍍 Looking for a tropical refreshment? Try our Pineapple Mocktail Recipes — vibrant, zesty, and the perfect pairing for a sweet treat like matcha brownies!
FAQ – Matcha Brownies
Do matcha and chocolate go together?
Absolutely! Matcha’s earthy, slightly bitter flavor balances beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate. Whether it’s white chocolate, dark chocolate, or milk chocolate, the combination creates a rich, sophisticated taste. That’s why matcha brownies are so popular—they offer a perfect harmony of creamy and bold flavors.
What to bake with matcha?
Matcha is incredibly versatile for baking! Besides matcha brownies, you can use it to make matcha cheesecake, matcha cookies, matcha pound cake, and even matcha macarons. Its vibrant green color and unique taste elevate any dessert.
Do matcha brownies have caffeine?
Yes, matcha brownies contain caffeine, thanks to the matcha powder. A standard serving of matcha has about 70 mg of caffeine per teaspoon—more than green tea but less than a cup of coffee. The presence of L-theanine in matcha helps deliver a smoother, more sustained energy boost without the typical caffeine crash.
What can you not mix with matcha?
When baking with matcha, it’s best to avoid mixing it with:
– Boiling water – It can make the flavor bitter.
– Overly acidic ingredients (like lemon juice) – These can dull the vibrant green color.
– Sugary syrups – They can overwhelm matcha’s delicate flavor.
Stick to simple, complementary flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and almond for the best results.
Is matcha chocolate healthy?
Yes, matcha chocolate—especially dark chocolate versions—can be healthy. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, while dark chocolate contains flavonoids that support heart health. When combined in matcha brownies, you get a dessert that’s both delicious and packed with nutrients.
🍫 Love the nutty goodness of matcha? Discover our Pistachio Chocolate Bar — a perfect blend of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios that’s irresistibly delicious!
Matcha Brownies Recipe Card
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup white or dark chocolate (melted)
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:° Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).° Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:° In a bowl, sift together the flour, matcha powder, and salt.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:° In another bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until smooth.° Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.° Stir in the vanilla extract and melted chocolate until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:° Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula.° Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Pour and Bake:° Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan.° Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve:° Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then lift out using the parchment paper and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Dust with extra matcha powder for a vibrant finish.
- Drizzle with white chocolate for added sweetness.
- Serve with green tea or almond milk for a perfect pairing.
Conclusion:
Matcha brownies bring together the bold, earthy flavors of matcha with the creamy richness of chocolate, creating a dessert that’s not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and health benefits. Whether you prefer them fudgy, vegan, or even swirled with cheesecake, there’s a version of this treat for everyone to enjoy.
Their vibrant color and unique taste make matcha brownies perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Plus, with the right storage methods, you can keep them fresh and ready for whenever the craving strikes.
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