Soft and airy matcha muffins with a vibrant green hue, these delicately sweet and earthy treats are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Their light texture and subtle umami flavor, enhanced by a dusting of powdered sugar, make them an elegant and satisfying indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy texture – These muffins rise beautifully and stay soft and moist.
- Delicate matcha flavor – Just the right balance of earthy green tea and sweetness.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a quick and effortless recipe.
- Versatile and customizable – Enjoy them plain or with toppings like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Great for tea lovers – Pairs perfectly with a warm cup of matcha or your favorite tea.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp matcha powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins fluffy.
- Fill the muffin tin: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Calories: 210 kcal per muffin
Variations
- Chocolate matcha muffins – Fold in 1/2 cup white or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
- Nutty twist – Add chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
- Citrus-infused – A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest can enhance the matcha flavor.
- Dairy-free version – Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Gluten-free option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Storage/Reheating
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week. Warm slightly before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze muffins in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for a few minutes.
FAQs
What kind of matcha should I use?
Use high-quality culinary-grade matcha for the best flavor and color.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, substitute melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil.
Why are my muffins dense?
Overmixing the batter can cause dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
How do I prevent the muffins from turning brown?
Use fresh matcha powder and avoid overbaking to maintain the green color.
Can I make mini muffins?
Yes, reduce the baking time to 12-15 minutes for smaller muffins.
What pairs well with these muffins?
Enjoy them with green tea, coffee, or a light yogurt for breakfast.
Can I make these muffins less sweet?
Reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup for a more subtle sweetness.
Can I add a filling?
Yes, try a matcha cream or sweet red bean paste for a unique twist.
Why didn’t my muffins rise?
Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they store well and can be made a day in advance for easy meal prep.
Conclusion
Fluffy matcha muffins are a simple yet elegant treat that beautifully balances earthy matcha with a soft, sweet texture. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a quick snack, these muffins are easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you enjoy them plain or with creative variations, they are a delightful way to incorporate matcha into your baking.
