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Matcha Tiramisu: An Elegant Japanese Twist

★★★★★ (4.9 from 86 Reviews)
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Tiramisu literally means "pick me up" in Italian, traditionally referring to the caffeine kick from espresso. Our Japanese-inspired version achieves the same effect using vibrant Matcha Green Tea.

The earthy, grassy bitterness of premium Matcha cuts through the rich, sweet mascarpone cream perfectly. It is lighter than the coffee original, visually stunning with its vibrant green layers, and requires absolutely zero baking.

A square slice of layered Matcha Tiramisu dusted with green tea powder.
Prep Time30 mins
Chill Time4 Hours
Servings6 Slices

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Culinary Grade Matcha
  • 1 cup Warm Water (80°C - do not use boiling)
  • 2 tbsp Sugar (for the soaking liquid)
  • 8 oz (225g) Mascarpone Cheese, room temp
  • 2 Egg Yolks
  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream, cold
  • 1 package Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi)
  • Topping: 1 tbsp Ceremonial Matcha for dusting
Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 320
Fat: 24g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 6g

Instructions

1
Make the Soak: In a small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp of Matcha powder and 2 tbsp sugar into 1 cup of warm water until fully dissolved and frothy. Pour into a shallow dish and let cool completely.
2
Prepare the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until pale yellow and creamy. Fold in the softened Mascarpone cheese until smooth and lump-free.
3
Whip & Fold: In a separate cold bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the Mascarpone mixture. Do not overmix, or it will lose volume.
4
Assemble: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the Matcha soak (1 second per side—do not soak too long or they will disintegrate) and arrange a layer in your serving dish (8x8 inch works well). Spread half the cream mixture over the cookies.
5
Layer & Chill: Repeat with a second layer of soaked cookies and the remaining cream. Smooth the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to set.
6
Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with Ceremonial Matcha powder using a fine mesh sieve.

Which Matcha to Use?

For the soaking liquid, a high-quality Culinary Grade is perfect—it has a stronger flavor that stands up to the sugar. However, for the final dusting on top, use a vibrantly green Ceremonial Grade. Culinary grade can look dull and yellowish-brown when dusted. See our Review: Best Matcha Brands for Baking vs. Drinking.