Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake

If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors and unique dessert combinations, this Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake is sure to win your heart! The rich, earthy flavor of matcha paired with the bright, citrusy zing of lemon creates a perfect harmony in every bite. The cake is soft, moist, and topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze, making it the ideal treat for any occasion—from a casual afternoon tea to a more festive dessert table. The hint of matcha adds not only flavor but also a pop of color that makes this cake both delicious and visually appealing.

Ready to indulge in this unique blend of flavors? Let’s jump into how to create this Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon matcha powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
  • Lemon zest for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to ensure the cake comes out easily once baked.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and matcha powder until they are well combined. The matcha will give the cake its vibrant green color and earthy flavor.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla: One at a time, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and lemon juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This ensures the cake stays light and fluffy. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
  6. Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden on top and firm to the touch.
  7. Cool the cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool down to room temperature to ensure the glaze sets nicely.

Prepare the Lemon Matcha Glaze:

  1. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and matcha powder until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
  2. Drizzle the glaze: Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the matcha lemon glaze over the top of the cake, letting it naturally flow down the sides for a beautiful finish.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle lemon zest on top of the glaze to enhance the fresh lemon flavor and add a pop of color. The zest not only elevates the visual appeal but also contributes an aromatic citrus kick.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy with tea: This Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake is the perfect companion to a warm cup of green tea, black tea, or herbal tea. Its light, refreshing flavors are ideal for afternoon tea or as a dessert after a light meal.
  • Serve as a snack: Cut into slices for a delightful snack. Its balance of sweetness and tang makes it a satisfying treat any time of the day.
  • Add berries: Serve alongside fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and extra flavor contrast.

Tips for Perfect Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake:

  • Use high-quality matcha: Since matcha is a key flavor in this cake, using high-quality matcha powder will make a big difference. Look for culinary-grade matcha for the best flavor.
  • Let the cake cool completely: Make sure the cake has cooled down fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and soaking into the cake.
  • Customize the glaze: If you want a thicker glaze, simply add a bit more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency. For a more intense matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder in the glaze.

FAQs

Can I use matcha powder in the glaze as well as the cake batter?

Yes! The matcha powder in the glaze adds an extra layer of matcha flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.

Can I substitute lemon juice in the glaze with something else?

If you prefer, you can swap the lemon juice with lime juice or orange juice for a citrus twist, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors tend to deepen the longer it sits, making it even better the next day!

Conclusion

This Matcha Lemon Drizzle Cake is the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth while offering a refreshing twist on traditional cakes. The marriage of matcha’s earthy flavor and the zesty brightness of lemon creates an unforgettable taste experience that will delight your guests. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. The drizzle of tangy lemon glaze and the touch of matcha on top give it the ideal finish, making it as beautiful as it is delicious!

Leave a Comment