Matcha roll cake, also known as matcha Swiss roll, is a delightful Japanese dessert that combines the earthy flavor of matcha green tea with a light and airy sponge cake. This elegant treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional flavors. This recipe will guide you through making a soft, fluffy matcha roll cake filled with a creamy matcha whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- ¾ cup cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the matcha whipped cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cake batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup of granulated sugar until pale and thick. Add the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Sift together the cake flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolk mixture, mixing until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the matcha batter in three additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up with the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the matcha whipped cream:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, matcha powder, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can cause the cream to become grainy.
- Assemble the roll cake:
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread an even layer of matcha whipped cream over the surface. Roll the cake back up without the towel, making sure to keep it tight and even.
- Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Serve:
- Slice the matcha roll cake into rounds and serve chilled. Enjoy this delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
FAQs
1. What is matcha? Matcha is a type of green tea made from specially grown and processed tea leaves. It is ground into a fine powder and has a vibrant green color. Matcha is known for its earthy flavor and numerous health benefits.
2. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture of the cake may be slightly denser. To make a substitute for cake flour, measure 1 cup of all-purpose flour, remove 2 tablespoons, and replace them with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift the mixture several times to ensure it is well combined.
3. Where can I find matcha powder? Matcha powder can be found in most grocery stores, especially in the tea or international sections. You can also purchase it online. Look for high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor and color.
4. Can I make the cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. The assembled roll cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
5. Why did my cake crack when I rolled it? Cracking can occur if the cake is overbaked or if it is not rolled while still warm. Make sure to roll the cake with a towel immediately after baking to prevent cracking. If the cake does crack, you can cover it with extra whipped cream or powdered sugar to hide the imperfections.
6. Can I add other fillings to the matcha roll cake? Absolutely! You can add fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries, or even a layer of red bean paste for a traditional Japanese twist. Feel free to get creative with your fillings.
7. How do I store matcha roll cake? Store the matcha roll cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Enjoy baking and savoring this fluffy matcha roll cake! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy baking!