<- Back To Recipes
Matcha Layer Cake with Strawberry-Basil Swirl

2023-02-20 - Written by: Emiko Nakamura

Japanese Dessert Layer Cake

Matcha Layer Cake with Strawberry-Basil Swirl

A refreshing and vibrant matcha layer cake infused with the subtle flavor of strawberry-basil.

Matcha Layer Cake with Strawberry-Basil Swirl

Servings: 8-10 people

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the cake layers:

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) matcha green tea powder
  • 2 3/4 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons matcha extract

For the strawberry-basil swirl:

  • 1 cup (120g) hulled and sliced strawberries
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the cake layers

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together matcha powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the sugar until pale yellow. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then beat in the oil and matcha extract.
  4. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Step 2: Bake the cake layers

  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the strawberry-basil swirl

  1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries with basil leaves until smooth.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
  3. Whisk in the granulated sugar and cornstarch until dissolved.

Step 4: Assemble the cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  2. Spread half of the strawberry-basil mixture over the top of the first cake layer, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
  3. Repeat the process with the remaining two cake layers and strawberry-basil mixture.

Step 5: Serve

  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
  • Slice and serve chilled.