Delicate Matcha Roll Cake

Matcha Roll Cake is a delectable and elegant Japanese dessert that combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of a soft and airy sponge cake. This delightful confection is characterized by a thin, tender cake layer that’s delicately rolled around a creamy and luscious filling, often featuring a blend of matcha-infused cream or fresh whipped cream. The vibrant green color of the matcha powder infuses the cake with a unique earthy flavor, making it a beloved treat for those who appreciate the harmonious interplay of sweet and bitter notes. Matcha Roll Cake is not only a delightful dessert but also a visually striking delicacy, perfect for special occasions or as a delightful teatime treat.

What is Matcha Roll Cake?

Matcha Roll Cake, also known as “Matcha Swiss Roll,” is a delightful Japanese dessert known for its distinctive green tea flavor and soft, rolled sponge cake filled with a sweet and often creamy filling. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:

Matcha Flavor: Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder made from shade-grown tea leaves. It imparts a vibrant green color and a distinctive, slightly bitter, and earthy flavor to the roll cake.
Sponge Cake: The cake itself is a light and fluffy sponge cake that is typically made with a combination of eggs, sugar, flour, and matcha powder. It’s baked flat, so it can be easily rolled without cracking.
Filling: The filling can vary, but it is commonly made using whipped cream mixed with matcha powder for a creamy and slightly sweet matcha-flavored interior. Other variations may include fillings like red bean paste or fruit preserves.

Rolling Technique: Once the sponge cake is baked and still warm, it is carefully rolled while it’s still flexible, which helps maintain its pliability. After it cools, it is unrolled, filled with the creamy matcha mixture, and then re-rolled.
Presentation: Matcha Roll Cake is often sliced to reveal spirals of green sponge cake and a contrasting white or green filling. It’s known for its elegant and visually appealing presentation.

This dessert is not only delicious but also appreciated for its cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. Matcha Roll Cake is enjoyed in various settings, from casual tea times to special occasions, and it’s a delightful treat for anyone who appreciates the unique flavor of matcha.

Why you will love Matcha Roll Cake?

There are several reasons why you might love Matcha Roll Cake:

Unique Flavor: Matcha Roll Cake offers a distinct and earthy flavor from the matcha green tea powder. Its subtle bitterness balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cake and filling, creating a harmonious taste experience.
Delicate Texture: The sponge cake is incredibly soft, light, and airy. It’s a delightful contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite a textural delight.

Aesthetically Pleasing: The vibrant green color of the matcha cake and the contrasting white or green filling create an eye-catching dessert that’s both elegant and visually appealing.
Versatility: Matcha Roll Cake can be customized to your preferences. You can experiment with different fillings such as cream, red bean paste, or fruit preserves to suit your taste.
Cultural Significance: Matcha is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is associated with tradition and mindfulness. Enjoying Matcha Roll Cake allows you to appreciate a piece of Japanese culinary heritage.

Teatime Treat: It’s a perfect accompaniment to a cup of green tea, coffee, or your favorite beverage. Whether served as dessert or during a relaxing teatime, it adds a touch of sophistication to the moment.
Impressive Presentation: If you enjoy creating visually stunning desserts, the rolling technique of Matcha Roll Cake offers an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills and creativity.
Celebratory Dessert: Matcha Roll Cake can be a delightful addition to special occasions, birthdays, or celebrations, adding an exotic and memorable touch to your festivities.

In summary, Matcha Roll Cake is a fusion of unique flavors, delicate textures, and cultural significance. Whether you’re drawn to its matcha taste, appreciate its aesthetics, or simply enjoy a dessert with a touch of elegance, this Japanese treat is a must-try for those who love the culinary adventure of discovering new and delightful flavors.

Matcha Roll Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Matcha Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs, at room temperature
3/4 cup (about 150 grams) granulated sugar

1 cup (about 120 grams) cake flour
2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons whole milk

For the Matcha Cream Filling:

1 1/2 cups (about 360 ml) heavy cream, chilled
1/4 cup (about 30 grams) powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons matcha powder (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

For the Matcha Sponge Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides.
In a mixing bowl, sift together the cake flour, matcha powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer or stand mixer until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and almost doubles in volume. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Gently fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture in three batches. Be careful not to deflate the eggs; use a gentle folding motion.
In a separate small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Gently fold this into the batter until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when touched.
While the cake is still warm, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, and place it on a clean kitchen towel. Roll the cake with the towel, starting from one of the shorter sides. This will help it take the desired roll shape. Allow it to cool completely.

For the Matcha Cream Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and matcha powder.

Whip the mixture until it thickens and forms stiff peaks. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it to be thick but still spreadable.

Assembly:

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and remove the towel.
Spread the matcha cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.

Gently roll the cake back up, starting from the same end you rolled it before, but this time without the towel.
Trim the edges of the roll for a clean presentation, if desired.
Wrap the roll cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the cream to set.

Before serving, dust the top of the roll cake with additional matcha powder for an elegant finish.
Slice and enjoy your homemade Matcha Roll Cake!

This recipe yields a delightful Matcha Roll Cake, perfect for tea time, dessert, or special occasions. Adjust the matcha powder quantity in the cream filling to your taste preference for a stronger or milder matcha flavor.

How to serve Matcha Roll Cake

To serve Matcha Roll Cake, follow these steps to ensure a delightful and visually appealing presentation:

Chilled: Matcha Roll Cake is traditionally served chilled, so make sure it has been refrigerated for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This will allow the cream filling to set and make it easier to slice.
Slicing: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife to slice the roll cake into individual servings. To achieve clean slices, you can dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut.

Plating: Arrange the sliced pieces on dessert plates or serving platters. You can place them flat or on their sides, showing the spiral pattern for an elegant presentation.
Garnish: To enhance the visual appeal and flavor, consider garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of matcha powder. You can also add a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Fresh Berries: Serve Matcha Roll Cake with a side of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, for a delightful contrast in flavors and colors.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side can complement the roll cake’s texture and add an extra layer of indulgence.
Tea or Coffee: Matcha Roll Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of green tea, matcha latte, or even coffee, enhancing the tea time or dessert experience.
Elegance: Consider serving your Matcha Roll Cake on decorative dessert plates and using fine dining utensils for an elegant touch.

Presentation: Pay attention to the arrangement of your slices and any additional elements like garnishes, which can make your Matcha Roll Cake not only delicious but also visually appealing.

By serving Matcha Roll Cake with care and attention to presentation, you can create a delightful dessert experience that’s perfect for teatime, special occasions, or any time you want to savor the unique flavors and textures of this Japanese delicacy.

How to store Matcha Roll Cake

To maintain the freshness and quality of your Matcha Roll Cake, it’s important to store it properly. Here’s how to store Matcha Roll Cake:

Refrigeration: Matcha Roll Cake should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it cool and prevent the cream filling from spoiling. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to protect it from absorbing odors and maintain its moisture.
Avoid Freezing: While some desserts can be frozen for extended storage, it’s not advisable to freeze Matcha Roll Cake. Freezing can alter the texture and moisture content, leading to undesirable changes in taste and appearance.
Refrigerate Promptly: After serving or cutting the roll cake, make sure to refrigerate any leftover slices or the entire roll within two hours of preparation to prevent spoilage.

Airtight Container: If you have an airtight cake container, it’s an excellent option for storing the whole roll cake. Alternatively, you can use a large airtight food storage container or wrap it in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s tightly sealed.
Individual Slices: If you have cut the roll cake into slices, you can place them in an airtight container, separating each slice with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Keep It Upright: Store the Matcha Roll Cake in an upright position to maintain its shape and prevent the cream from shifting and affecting the appearance of the cake.

Use Quickly: Matcha Roll Cake is best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness. While it can be stored in the refrigerator for a little longer, it’s at its best when consumed within 2-3 days of preparation.

Remember that the moisture from the cream filling may soften the sponge cake slightly over time. To prevent excessive moisture absorption, use airtight containers and keep the cake refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy it. Proper storage will help maintain the delightful taste and texture of your Matcha Roll Cake.

Other Delicious Dessert Recipes To Try

Sweet And Juicy Watermelon Roll Cake Delight

Tips to make perfect Matcha Roll Cake

To make the perfect Matcha Roll Cake, follow these tips to achieve a delightful, well-rolled cake:

For the Matcha Sponge Cake:

High-Quality Matcha Powder: Invest in high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and color. Lower-quality matcha can result in a dull green hue and a less distinct matcha taste.

Proper Sifting: Sift the cake flour and matcha powder together to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter. This step also helps to evenly distribute the matcha flavor.
Fluffy Eggs: When beating the eggs and sugar, aim to achieve a pale and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for creating a light and airy sponge cake.
Gentle Folding: When combining the dry ingredients with the egg mixture, use a gentle folding motion to maintain the airiness. Overmixing can result in a denser cake.

Even Spreading: Ensure that you spread the cake batter evenly in the pan to create a uniformly thick cake layer. An offset spatula can be helpful for this.
Roll While Warm: Roll the cake while it’s still warm, as it’s more pliable and less likely to crack. Use a clean kitchen towel to help with the rolling process.

For the Matcha Cream Filling:

Chilled Equipment: Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are chilled when whipping the heavy cream. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
Stiff Peaks: Whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Be cautious not to over-whip, as this can result in lumps or the cream separating.

For Assembly:

Evenly Spread Filling: When spreading the matcha cream filling on the cake, aim for a uniform layer with a slightly thicker application at the ends to ensure that each bite has a consistent filling.
Roll with Care: When re-rolling the cake with the cream filling, do so gently but firmly. The initial rolling of the cake helps it maintain its shape during the final presentation.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This step allows the cream to set, making it easier to slice and serve without the filling oozing out.

Clean Cuts: To achieve clean and neat slices, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This prevents sticking and helps you get perfectly shaped slices.

By following these tips, you can create a Matcha Roll Cake that’s not only visually appealing but also perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, delighting your taste buds and those you share it with.

FAQ’s

Q1: Why did my Matcha Roll Cake crack when I rolled it? A1: Cracking can occur if the sponge cake is overbaked or if it’s rolled when it has cooled too much. To prevent cracking, roll the cake while it’s still warm and pliable but not hot, and be cautious not to overbake the cake.

Q2: How can I make the matcha flavor stronger in my roll cake? A2: To intensify the matcha flavor, you can add more matcha powder to the cake batter or the cream filling. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much matcha can result in bitterness.

Q3: What should I do if the sponge cake is too dry? A3: Dry sponge cake can result from overbaking. To remedy this, you can brush a simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water mixture) on the sponge before adding the filling to add moisture and flavor. Be sure not to oversaturate it.

Q4: My cream filling is too runny. How can I fix it? A4: If the cream filling is too runny, it may be due to over-whipping the cream. To fix it, you can try rewhipping the cream for a short time until it reaches the right consistency. Be cautious not to over-whip, as it can result in lumps or separation.

Q5: How do I prevent the cream from oozing out when I roll the cake? A5: To prevent the cream from oozing out, be sure to apply the cream filling evenly but not too thickly. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent spillage. Rolling the cake gently but firmly can help maintain the shape.

Q6: Can I make Matcha Roll Cake in advance for a special occasion? A6: Yes, Matcha Roll Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it the day before or even a few hours ahead, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Q7: Can I use a different filling in my Matcha Roll Cake? A7: Absolutely! While matcha cream is the classic choice, you can get creative with fillings. Consider options like red bean paste, fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or other flavored creams to add your own unique twist.

Q8: Why is my roll cake too dense or heavy? A8: A dense or heavy roll cake can result from overmixing the batter, overbaking, or not folding the dry ingredients gently enough. Follow the recipe instructions closely and avoid overmixing for a light and airy texture.

By addressing these common questions and troubleshooting issues, you can perfect your Matcha Roll Cake and ensure it turns out both delicious and visually appealing.

Nutrition information

The nutritional information for Matcha Roll Cake can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for a typical slice of Matcha Roll Cake, assuming eight slices per roll:

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/8th of a 10×15-inch roll cake)

Approximate Nutrition Content per Serving:

Calories: 180-220 calories

Protein: 3-5 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
Sugars: 15-20 grams

Fat: 10-12 grams
Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
Cholesterol: 50-70 mg

Fiber: 0-1 gram
Sodium: 15-25 mg

Please keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific recipe, the amount of cream filling used, and ingredient variations. If you have specific dietary concerns or are following a particular diet, it’s advisable to calculate the exact nutritional content based on your recipe and ingredient choices.

The Strawberry Roll Cake Experience

Strawberry Roll Cake, also known as a Strawberry Swiss Roll or Jelly Roll, is a delightful dessert that combines a Read more

Sweet And Juicy Watermelon Roll Cake Delight

Watermelon Roll Cake is a delightful and visually stunning dessert that captures the essence of a juicy watermelon in the Read more

Lemon Roll Cake Elegance

Lemon Roll Cake, often referred to as a Lemon Swiss Roll, is a delightful dessert that embodies the perfect blend Read more

The Ultimate Coconut Roll Cake

Introducing the Coconut Roll Cake, a delectable dessert that combines the exotic flavor of coconut with the elegance of a Read more

Irresistible Chocolate Roll Cake

Introducing the Chocolate Roll Cake: A delectable masterpiece that seamlessly combines the rich allure of chocolate with the delicate elegance Read more

The Ultimate Blueberry Roll Cake

Delight in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures with our enchanting Blueberry Roll Cake. This elegant dessert is a Read more