Matcha Tiramisu is a delightful fusion dessert that marries Japanese and Italian culinary traditions. This contemporary take on the classic tiramisu substitutes traditional espresso with a vibrant matcha syrup, while maintaining the signature layers of ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling. The dessert presents a unique flavor profile, showcasing the earthy notes of green tea harmoniously blended with the rich, smooth cream. Increasingly popular in trendy restaurants and cafes across Japan, Matcha Tiramisu has emerged as a sophisticated and Instagram-worthy treat, often served in charming wooden sake cups.
What is Matcha Tiramisu?
Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert characterized by layers of coffee-soaked ladyfinger cookies and a light, creamy mascarpone mixture, typically dusted with cocoa powder. The name “tiramisu” translates to “pick me up” in Italian, alluding to the energizing combination of coffee and sugar. This dessert has gained worldwide popularity for its rich and indulgent flavor.
Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder from Japan, differs from regular green tea in that it consists of whole tea leaves that are stone-ground into a vibrant green powder. It possesses a distinctive, slightly bitter flavor and is rich in antioxidants. Traditionally utilized in Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha has now found its way into beverages, desserts, and various culinary creations around the globe.
Matcha Tiramisu artfully combines elements from both Japanese and Italian cuisines by replacing the bitter espresso with matcha. The pairing of matcha with dairy products is exceptional, making it a popular choice in desserts featuring milk and cream, such as Matcha Latte or Matcha Chocolate. The creamy filling of Tiramisu is no exception; the bittersweet matcha syrup beautifully complements the rich mascarpone, resulting in a harmonious and innovative dessert that bridges two distinct culinary traditions.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Matcha is a unique green tea powder that cannot be substituted with regular green tea leaves if you wish to achieve the same flavor intensity. It can be found in Japanese markets or various online stores.
- Ladyfingers are readily available in local stores, but alternatives such as sponge cakes or pound cakes can also be used.
- For serving, we recommend small wooden sake cups (2.5″ x 2.5″ or 6 cm x 6 cm), but individual-sized ramekins are also a great option.
How to Store Matcha Tiramisu
To store Matcha Tiramisu, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for a few days. It can be frozen for up to one month.
More Matcha Recipes
A modern twist on classic tiramisu, replacing traditional espresso with vibrant Matcha syrup.
Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 6 Tbsp powder sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
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Prepare the Matcha syrup by whisking together sugar and Matcha powder. Pour boiling water over the mixture and whisk until dissolved. Allow it to cool.
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For the cream filling, combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Increase to medium-high speed and whisk until medium peaks form. Transfer the filling to a piping bag.
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Cut the ladyfingers in half and soak them in the syrup for 10 minutes. Pipe some filling into the bottom of a wooden sake cup, place two pieces of ladyfinger on top, and pipe more filling to the top. Smooth the surface with a spatula and dust with Matcha powder using a mesh strainer. Repeat for three more cups. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
