Matcha Cake With Passion Fruit Cream Cheese Frosting

Short Description

This Matcha Cake with Passion Fruit Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful fusion of earthy green tea flavors and tropical passion fruit tang. The moist and tender matcha-infused cake pairs perfectly with the smooth, slightly tart cream cheese frosting infused with fresh passion fruit, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a unique blend of flavors that is both sophisticated and approachable. The vibrant green hue of matcha provides an elegant presentation, while its subtle bitterness complements the sweet and tangy passion fruit frosting beautifully. Ideal for special occasions or an indulgent treat, this cake is sure to impress both matcha enthusiasts and fruit lovers alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Matcha Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Matcha green tea powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk

For the Passion Fruit Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Passion fruit pulp (fresh or frozen, strained)
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in the passion fruit pulp and vanilla extract until well combined.
8. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings. Preparation time is around 20 minutes, with baking taking 25-30 minutes. Cooling and frosting will require an additional 30-40 minutes, making the total time about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Variations

• Substitute passion fruit pulp with mango or pineapple for a different tropical twist.
• Use coconut cream cheese to add a subtle coconut flavor.
• Add finely chopped pistachios or white chocolate chips into the cake batter for texture.
• For a vegan version, use plant-based butter, cream cheese alternatives, and flax eggs.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This cake is not suitable for reheating as the frosting may lose its texture.

FAQs

What is matcha powder?

Matcha powder is a finely ground green tea powder made from specially grown and processed tea leaves, known for its vibrant color and unique flavor.

Can I use regular green tea powder instead of matcha?

Regular green tea powder is not as finely ground and may lack the vibrant color and flavor matcha provides, so it is not recommended as a substitute.

How do I prepare passion fruit pulp for the frosting?

Cut the passion fruit in half and scoop out the pulp. Strain it through a fine sieve to remove seeds if desired before adding to the frosting.

Can I make the cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but note that texture and rise might slightly differ.

How long can I keep the cake at room temperature?

Due to the cream cheese frosting, it is best to keep the cake refrigerated and not leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers without frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, and substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and acid mixture.

How do I achieve a smooth frosting finish?

Chill the frosting slightly if too soft and use an offset spatula to spread evenly, smoothing edges carefully.

Can I add other flavors to the frosting?

Yes, a small amount of lemon or lime zest can enhance the tropical notes or add a hint of vanilla extract for more depth.

Conclusion

This Matcha Cake with Passion Fruit Cream Cheese Frosting is a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that combines the subtle earthiness of matcha with the bright, tropical flavor of passion fruit. Its moist texture and flavorful frosting make it an excellent choice for celebrations or an indulgent treat. With versatile variations and straightforward preparation, it is a recipe worth trying for anyone looking to impress with a unique and elegant cake.

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