Matcha Brownies – A Vibrant Fusion of Comfort and Culture

There’s something quietly magical about baking Matcha Brownies. The ritual begins the moment you scoop that vibrant green powder into a mixing bowl, its earthy scent filling the air like a whisper from centuries past. These aren’t just any brownies—they’re a harmonious blend of old and new, East and West, comfort food and ceremonial tradition.

The first time I made Matcha Brownies, it was a cool spring afternoon. The garden was just starting to bloom, birds chirped outside my window, and I wanted something soothing yet sweet—something that felt like a pause button for the day. I whisked matcha into melted white chocolate and butter, folded it into whipped eggs and sugar, and watched the batter turn into a silky green ribbon. I didn’t know then that this would become my go-to treat for rainy days, tea parties, and thoughtful gifts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique, balanced flavor: The earthy bitterness of matcha pairs beautifully with the sweet richness of white chocolate.
• Visually stunning: Their natural green hue stands out among typical desserts—without food coloring.
• Texture perfection: Crackly top, soft center, and chewy edges that hold their own.
• Unexpected yet familiar: Brownie lovers will appreciate the fudgy texture, while tea lovers will savor the matcha flavor.
• A meaningful dessert: A nod to tradition with a playful, modern twist—these brownies feel personal and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
• 4 oz (115 g) white chocolate
• 2 tbsp (10 g) ceremonial-quality matcha powder
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

The Cultural Magic Behind Matcha

Matcha has roots that reach back over 800 years. Traditionally used by Zen Buddhist monks in Japan to promote clarity and mindfulness, matcha became central to Japanese tea ceremonies. The powdered green tea isn’t just an ingredient—it’s a ritual, a symbol of harmony and simplicity.

Bringing matcha into a dessert like brownies celebrates this beautiful tradition while making it accessible. It’s no wonder matcha’s found such popularity in modern kitchens—it soothes, energizes, and inspires all at once. And when folded into brownies? It creates a flavor like no other—one that lingers long after the last bite.

How to Make Matcha Brownies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps you avoid sticking and ensures clean cuts later.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Let it simmer until it foams and turns golden, giving off a nutty, toasty aroma. This process adds depth and richness to the brownies.

Step 3: Melt Matcha and Chocolate
Place your white chocolate and matcha powder in a heat-safe bowl. Pour the hot browned butter over it, whisking until smooth and evenly colored. The matcha should bloom in the warmth, intensifying both color and flavor.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat for 5–8 minutes until pale, thick, and glossy. This step creates that crackly brownie top we all love.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
With the mixer on low, slowly stream in the matcha-chocolate-butter mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it.

Step 6: Add the Flour
Sift in the flour and gently fold until no dry streaks remain. The batter should be silky and vividly green.

Step 7: Bake and Set the Crinkle Top
Pour the batter into the pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Then—this is the fun part—remove the pan and tap it on the counter to deflate the top slightly. This helps set the shiny crinkle crust. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you like, and return to the oven for another 8–10 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool in the pan completely. Once cooled, use the parchment handles to lift and slice into 16 neat squares. The inside should be soft and slightly dense—like a hug in dessert form.

Helpful Tips

• Use high-quality ceremonial matcha: Culinary-grade works, but ceremonial-grade gives the best color and cleanest flavor.
• Don’t skip the sugar whip step: This adds air to your batter and helps form that signature brownie crust.
• Sift your matcha before mixing to avoid clumps.
• Brown the butter carefully: It can go from golden to burnt quickly. Once you smell that nutty scent, it’s ready.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Japanese-American fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

Let them sit overnight—the matcha flavor deepens and the texture becomes even fudgier. These keep well and taste better the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbs: 26 g
• Sugar: 19 g
• Protein: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use culinary matcha instead of ceremonial?
Yes, but the color may be less vibrant and the flavor slightly more bitter.

How long do Matcha Brownies last?
They last 3–4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Do they taste like tea?
Slightly, yes—but more sweet and earthy than grassy. Think mellow green tea latte in brownie form.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Fridge: Keeps for 7 days—just bring to room temp before eating.
• Freezer: Wrap each brownie individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy bakes:

• Oreo Dirt Cake
• The Best Matcha Muffins
• Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars

Conclusion

Matcha Brownies are more than just dessert—they’re a delicious ritual. They bring the calm of tea ceremonies, the warmth of home baking, and the beauty of shared moments together in one perfect square. Whether you’re baking for a quiet afternoon, a special gift, or a new twist on your brownie game, these are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Print