Matcha Brownies (抹茶ブラウニー) are a delicious fusion dessert that combines the fudgy richness of classic brownies with the earthy, slightly bittersweet flavor of premium Japanese matcha. Their vibrant green color, soft chewy texture, and delicate aroma make them a favorite in Japanese cafés, bakeries, and modern dessert shops. Whether enjoyed with a cup of matcha, coffee, or tea, these brownies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.

Easy to bake and wonderfully versatile, Matcha Brownies are ideal for afternoon tea, celebrations, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

What are Matcha Brownies?

Matcha Brownies are soft, dense dessert bars made with matcha green tea powder, white chocolate, butter, eggs, flour, and sugar. Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, they feature the distinctive flavor and vibrant green color of matcha while maintaining the rich, chewy texture that brownie lovers enjoy.

Many recipes also include white chocolate chips, red beans, walnuts, or macadamia nuts for added flavor and texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, chewy, and fudgy texture
  • Beautiful natural green color
  • Balanced sweetness with earthy matcha flavor
  • Easy to prepare in one bowl
  • Perfect for tea time or dessert
  • Great for gifting and special occasions

Ingredients

For the Brownies

  • 120 g white chocolate, chopped
  • 100 g unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 120 g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons premium matcha powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-Ins

  • 50 g white chocolate chips
  • 40 g chopped walnuts
  • 40 g macadamia nuts
  • 40 g sweet red beans (anko)

Garnish

  • Matcha powder
  • Powdered sugar
  • White chocolate drizzle

Kitchen Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Oven

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 12 brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the white chocolate and butter together over a pan of simmering water or in short microwave intervals.

Stir until smooth and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Eggs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Slowly stir in the melted white chocolate and butter mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift together:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Matcha powder
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture using a spatula.

If desired, fold in white chocolate chips, nuts, or sweet red beans.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.

Lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares with a sharp knife.

Dust lightly with matcha powder or powdered sugar before serving.

Garnish

Finish with:

  • Matcha powder
  • Powdered sugar
  • Melted white chocolate drizzle
  • Chopped pistachios
  • Edible gold leaf for special occasions

Serving Suggestions

Matcha Brownies pair beautifully with:

  • Matcha latte
  • Hojicha tea
  • Sencha
  • Genmaicha
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Whipped cream
  • Red bean paste

Tips for Perfect Matcha Brownies

  • Use high-quality culinary or ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor and color.
  • Sift the matcha to prevent lumps.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour.
  • Slightly underbake the brownies for a soft, fudgy center.
  • Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Delicious Variations

White Chocolate Matcha Brownies

Add extra white chocolate chunks for a sweeter, creamier bite.

Red Bean Matcha Brownies

Fold sweet red beans into the batter for a classic Japanese flavor combination.

Matcha Walnut Brownies

Mix chopped walnuts into the batter for added crunch.

Matcha Cheesecake Brownies

Swirl sweetened cream cheese into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.

Vegan Matcha Brownies

Replace butter with plant-based butter, use dairy-free white chocolate, and substitute flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage

Store Matcha Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerate for up to 1 week for extended freshness.

Freeze individual pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Brownie)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 16 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg

Values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of matcha is best for brownies?

High-quality culinary-grade matcha is ideal for baking because it provides vibrant color and robust flavor. Ceremonial-grade matcha can also be used for a more delicate taste.

Why are my Matcha Brownies brown instead of green?

Overbaking or using low-quality matcha can dull the color. Use fresh matcha and avoid baking longer than necessary.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes, but the brownies will have a richer chocolate flavor that may overpower the delicate taste of matcha. White chocolate highlights the green tea flavor more effectively.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I prepare Matcha Brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely. They taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

Final Thoughts

Matcha Brownies are a delightful blend of Japanese tradition and modern baking, offering the chewy richness of classic brownies with the refined flavor of premium green tea. Their vibrant color, soft texture, and balanced sweetness make them perfect for afternoon tea, dessert platters, or homemade gifts. Whether enjoyed plain, topped with white chocolate, or paired with red beans and ice cream, these Matcha Brownies are an irresistible treat that brings the distinctive taste of Japan to your kitchen.