Matcha and Strawberry Layer Cake
Servings: 8-10 people
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (235ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
For the strawberry filling:
- 2 cups (400g) sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- Make the matcha sponge cakes:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake the cakes:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the strawberry filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries release their juice.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the cake:
- Place one of the cooled sponge cakes on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a layer of strawberry filling over the top of the cake.
- Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of cake on top.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar: Dust the top of the cake with confectioners' sugar before serving.
Variations:
- To make the cake more vibrant green, add an extra teaspoon or two of matcha powder to the batter.
- Use fresh strawberries in place of jam for a more intense flavor.
- Add a layer of whipped cream or mousse between the layers for added texture and flavor.