Name: Matcha Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 13 h 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces); 24 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ceremonial matcha powder; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup sour cream (room temperature); 3 large eggs (50 grams each, out of shell, room temperature)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 270 reviews

If you are looking for a dessert that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, the Matcha Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute showstopper. This cheesecake blends the earthy, vibrant green notes of ceremonial matcha with the creamy luxury of classic cheesecake, all nestled on a perfectly crumbly shortbread crust. It’s a treat that looks delicate but is surprisingly easy to make, and it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and subtle bitterness that will keep you coming back for just one more slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and a white plate on a white marble surface, each containing different ingredients. On the white plate at the bottom right, there are three thick blocks of white cream cheese with a smooth, soft texture. Above the plate and spread arranged in the middle, there are clear glass bowls with white granulated sugar, white flour, and a white thick liquid likely cream, each with fine, powdery or smooth textures. To the side, there is a small glass bowl with two bright yellow egg yolks, while two whole brown eggs are placed directly on the marble surface near the top left. At the top center, there is a stack of rectangular beige graham crackers laid flat, with a stick of pale yellow butter placed nearby. Lastly, a small glass bowl contains finely crushed green matcha powder adding a vibrant color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Matcha Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality of ingredients. Each component plays its part in building the flavor, texture, and color that make this dessert unforgettable. From the zesty lemon in the crust to the smooth cream cheese in the filling, every ingredient is essential for that perfect harmony.

1 1/2 cups flour: The base of the shortbread crust, providing structure and that satisfying crumbly texture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the earthiness of the matcha and lemon zest.
2 teaspoons lemon zest: Brightens the crust with a fresh pop of citrus that lifts the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the depth of flavor in both the crust and filling.
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the crust that complements the matcha beautifully.
3/4 cup unsalted butter (cold): The secret to a buttery, tender shortbread crust with just the right consistency.
24 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): The creamy heart of the cheesecake that creates that rich, silky mouthfeel everyone loves.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling to perfectly balance the slight bitterness of the matcha powder.
3 tablespoons ceremonial matcha: The star ingredient that infuses this cheesecake with its earthy flavor and striking green color.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the matcha’s unique flavor in the filling.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies other flavors in the filling.
3/4 cup sour cream (room temperature): Adds tanginess and helps create a creamy, tender texture in the cheesecake.
3 large eggs (50 grams each, room temperature): Bind everything together, giving the cheesecake its smooth, luscious consistency.

How to Make Matcha Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Start by greasing a 9″ springform pan and preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). For the crust, you can either use a food processor or mix everything by hand. Combine the flour, sugar, lemon zest, salt, and vanilla extract first. Then incorporate the cold butter until the mixture looks like crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the pan, making sure it reaches the edges but doesn’t go up the sides. Poke holes all over the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling, then bake for 17-20 minutes until lightly browned. Let it cool on a rack for 15 minutes before adding the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese, sugar, and ceremonial matcha until fluffy and smooth. This step is crucial to avoid lumps and creates that beautiful, vibrant green color. Next, add vanilla extract, salt, and sour cream, mixing on low speed until just combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to combine and avoid overmixing which could cause cracks. Pour this luscious filling over the slightly cooled crust and smooth the surface with an offset spatula.

Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cheesecake

Bake your cheesecake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes. The center will still jiggle gently, which is exactly how it should be. Once baked, open the oven door fully and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes to prevent sudden temperature changes that might cause cracks. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for 3 to 4 hours. For best results, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours before slicing.

How to Serve Matcha Cheesecake Recipe

A round green matcha cake sits on a white plate with a light brown crust on the sides and bottom. The top of the cake is covered with a smooth, bright green powdered matcha layer. A single triangular slice is lifted on a silver cake server, showing the smooth texture inside the cake matching the green outside. On one side of the cake, there is a line of decoration made with thin yellow lemon slices, bright red raspberries, and green mint leaves. Around the plate, more lemon slices and raspberries are scattered. Nearby, a small white bowl filled with red raspberries and a small white plate with neatly arranged lemon slices and a few raspberries are placed on a white marbled surface. A fine mesh sieve with green matcha powder hangs above a small white dish on the left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To serve your slice of joy, consider dusting the cheesecake with a light sprinkle of extra matcha powder for a vivid green pop. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add a lovely contrast in sweetness and color. You could also top with whipped cream or even a drizzle of white chocolate to balance out the earthy matcha flavor.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot green tea or jasmine tea to complement the matcha flavor. Alternatively, a refreshing citrus salad can brighten your palate between bites, enhancing the zesty undertones from the crust’s lemon zest.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to add some flair, serve slices on pretty ceramic plates with edible flowers or sprinkle pistachios around the plate for a crunchy texture. For a party, cut mini cheesecakes and present them in small glass jars topped with whipped cream and a dusting of matcha powder – absolute crowd-pleasers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Matcha Cheesecake refrigerated, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days and maintain its creamy texture and vibrant color without drying out.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it slowly overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its delicate texture and flavor.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so it usually does not need reheating. However, if you prefer it slightly warmer, allow the slice to sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for a perfect balance between cool creaminess and soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular matcha instead of ceremonial matcha in this recipe?

While you can use regular matcha, ceremonial matcha is recommended for its superior flavor and color, which really makes this cheesecake shine. Regular matcha might be more bitter and less vibrant, affecting the final taste.

Do I need a water bath when baking this cheesecake?

No water bath is needed for this recipe. The baking method and cooling process suggested here help maintain the cheesecake’s creamy texture without cracks, making it easier to prepare.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the flour in the crust with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to achieve the right crust texture.

What’s the best way to prevent cracks on my cheesecake surface?

The key is not to overmix the batter, to bake it until just set but still a bit jiggly in the center, and to cool it gradually by leaving the oven door open after baking. These tips help keep the surface smooth and crack-free.

How long can I refrigerate the cheesecake before serving?

This Matcha Cheesecake Recipe benefits from 8 hours or more of chilling time, which allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days without any loss in quality.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Matcha Cheesecake Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress friends or just treat themselves to something wonderfully special at home. Its elegant flavor, eye-catching color, and creamy texture make it a dessert you’ll want to keep making again and again. So go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Matcha Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need