matcha tiramisu

this matcha tiramisu features matcha soaked ladyfingers, a light and airy matcha mascarpone cream and layers of fresh strawberries.

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this strawberry matcha tiramisu brings together two of the best flavour combinations in one dessert – the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries meets the earthy depth of good quality matcha. a classic egg-based mascarpone cream flavoured with matcha, ladyfingers dipped in a matcha and sugar soak, and fresh strawberries layered throughout.

the clear box format makes these feel even more special! strawberry slices are pressed against the inside of each box and every layer is visible from the outside: that beautifully green matcha cream, red strawberries, matcha soaked ladyfingers stacked neatly on top of each other. make them the night before, then finish with a dusting of matcha powder and some more fresh strawberries for the most perfect layered dessert for summer.

why you will love this strawberry matcha tiramisu recipe

• incredibly easy recipe – this creamy strawberry matcha tea tiramisu comes together in about 40 minutes of active prep time. despite looking quite fancy, this strawberry matcha tiramisu recipe is surprisingly straightforward. no baking required, just layering matcha soaked ladyfingers with a matcha mascarpone cream and fresh strawberry pieces. and whether you make it in individual clear boxes, make mini matcha tiramisu cups or make it in a large dish, the layers make it look really beautiful!

• strawberry and matcha is one of the best flavour combinations going – making a tiramisu with matcha and strawberries takes the beloved classic italian dessert and elevates it with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and the earthy flavour of matcha in a way that makes every bite feel balanced, light and refreshing.

• make ahead friendly – like traditional tiramisu, this strawberry matcha tiramisu dessert actually improves as it sits. make it the night before and let the layers meld together in the fridge. by the time you serve it, the ladyfingers have softened into the matcha cream and the flavours have had time to meld together properly. there’s nothing to do at the last minute except dust the matcha powder on top.

what is matcha tiramisu ?

matcha tiramisu, sometimes called matchamisu, is a matcha flavoured twist on the classic italian tiramisu. the espresso is replaced with a green tea and sugar soak, the cream is flavoured with matcha powder, and the result is a lighter, more delicate dessert with an earthy, slightly bitter green tea note running through every layer instead of coffee. it sits in the same no-bake, make-ahead category as a traditional tiramisu and uses the same egg-based mascarpone cream method. this strawberry matcha version adds fresh strawberries, which is one of the most popular matcha combinations.

learn how to make matcha tiramisu

to make this strawberry matcha tiramisu, we start by preparing the matcha sugar soak: matcha powder whisked with hot water and sugar until smooth, then left to cool.

next, we’ll make the creamy matcha mascarpone filling. begin by whipping egg yolks with sugar. then, we’re going to add mascarpone, vanilla extract, matcha powder and heavy cream to make a thick, creamy filling. separately, whip egg whites with vinegar and sugar and fold that gently through the matcha mascarpone mixture.

to assemble, we slice strawberries and press them against the inside walls of our dish, dip ladyfingers in the cooled matcha soak and layer them across the base, spoon over a generous layer of matcha mascarpone cream, scatter chopped strawberry pieces on top, then repeat the layers.

after chilling overnight, we’ll dust some matcha powder over the top and also add some extra fresh strawberries, and we’re done!

strawberry matcha tiramisu ingredients

for The matcha soak:

• matcha powder – use ceremonial grade matcha for the best colour and flavour. culinary grade works but will be more bitter and less of a vibrant green colour. good quality matcha is the most important ingredient in this recipe, as it determines the colour and flavour of both the soak and the cream. i love to use raku matcha’s hikari matcha! and using the code aymenacooks (in caps) at checkout will get you 10% off your order.

• hot water – to dissolve the matcha and sugar into a smooth soak. use hot but not boiling water, as boiling water can make matcha taste bitter.

• granulated sugar – sweetens the matcha soak slightly.

for the matcha mascarpone cream:

• eggs – i use eggs in this matcha tiramisu recipe to make the mascarpone cream – we will be separating the eggs and whipping the yolks and whites with sugar separately.

• sugar – we’ll be using granulated sugar for the matcha tiramisu mascarpone cream mixture. you’ll need sugar for the egg yolks and for the egg whites.

• mascarpone – i make this strawberry matcha tiramisu with mascarpone – the key ingredient that is essential in this matcha tiramisu dessert. mascarpone is whipped into the whipped egg yolk mixture to create that signature creamy, slightly tangy flavour that you would get in a classic italian tiramisu.

• vanilla extract – optional, but recommended, since matcha, strawberries and vanilla work really well together. the vanilla enhances the matcha tiramisu flavour and adds depth to the cream layer.

• matcha powder – i like to add matcha powder to the mascarpone cream as well in order to make the matcha tiramisu flavor more pronouced. the matcha powder is sifted and folded directly into the mascarpone mixture as it distributes more evenly when folded into the mascarpone than when added to the yolks directly.

• double cream or heavy cream – i like to use a little bit of heavy cream in the matcha mascarpone cream to create that light, airy texture that complements the delicate matcha flavour and the fresh strawberries really nicely. make sure you add it cold and straight from the fridge so that it can thicken up properly.

• vinegar – just a small amount of vinegar added to the egg whites and sugar will help them stabilise and whip up quicker.

for assembly:

• ladyfingers or savoiardi – for dipping in the cooled matcha sugar soak. a quick two or three dips is enough, as they’ll continue to soften overnight in the fridge and you don’t want them to become soggy.

• fresh strawberries – i love making this matcha tiramisu with strawberries in between the layers. i like to use strawberries sliced lengthways to line the sides of the box/dish to make the matcha tiramisu look a little nicer, and then also smaller chopped strawberry pieces layered through the middle for flavour.

tools:

• fine sieve – for sifting matcha for the soak and the cream and for dusting on top.

• small whisk or matcha whisk – for mixing the matcha powder and sugar into the hot water for the soak. a matcha whisk (chasen) gives the smoothest result but a regular small whisk will also work fine.

• wide and shallow dish – add your matcha soak to this so that so you can easily dip the ladyfingers in.

• 2 large mixing bowls – one for the egg yolks and mascarpone mixture and one for whipping the egg whites separately.

• electric mixer – an electric mixer will speed up the process when it comes to beating together the egg yolks/whites and sugar and whipping the mascarpone and cream. a whisk will do just fine if you don’t have access to a mixer but it will definitely take a little longer.

• rubber spatula – great for gently folding the egg whites into the matcha mascarpone cream.

• a dish for your strawberry matcha tiramisu – this matcha tiramisu recipe will serve about 5-6 people if you make a 9×13 inch dish, but you can use any kind of dish you think works best. i’m using clear individual dessert boxes. you can also use a round dish or make individual matcha tiramisu cups in glasses.

• knife – for slicing the strawberries evenly.

• piping bag – optional but useful for getting an even cream layer.

• offset spatula – to spread the matcha mascarpone cream thin for the final layer and smooth the top.

• clingfilm or plastic wrap – to cover the strawberry matcha tiramisu when you place it in the fridge to chill.

step by step instructions

for full measurements, keep scrolling down to the recipe below.

step one: prepare the matcha soak. in a small, wide and shallow dish, sift matcha powder, and add granulated sugar and hot water. use a matcha whisk or regular whisk to whisk these together until smooth and combined, and slightly frothy. then set this aside to cool slightly while you make the matcha mascarpone cream for the layers.

step two: make the matcha mascarpone cream. begin by separating the eggs. set the whites aside in a separate bowl. add yolks to another large mixing bowl. add half of the sugar to the yolks and beat with a mixer (or a whisk) until the mixture becomes a pale yellow colour and increases in volume.

step three: add mascarpone cheese and beat this into the egg yolk mixture until combined and the mixture thickens up. the mixture should look thick and smooth.

step four: add vanilla extract to the mascarpone mixture and whisk this through.

step five: sift the matcha powder over the mascarpone mixture.

step six: add cold heavy cream and use an electric mixer to beat the matcha powder and the cream until the matcha is completely incorporated and the cream thickens up to your desired consistency. you can also use a whisk to do this, but it will just take a little longer.

step seven: to the bowl with the egg whites, add the rest of the sugar and a little bit of vinegar and whip this mixture with an electric mixer until the egg whites look pale and fluffy. they should be soft, with tips that curl over slightly when you lift the beaters out of the bowl.

step eight: add the egg whites to the matcha mascarpone cream mixture little by little and gently fold them into the mixture until combined and smooth.

step nine: wash, hull and dry the strawberries. slice some lengthways into even slices for the sides of your dish. chop the remaining strawberries into small pieces and set aside.

step ten: dip each ladyfinger in the cooled matcha soak (two or three quick dips) and lay them across the base of your dish or box, breaking to fit if needed.

step eleven: press the strawberry slices flat against the inside walls of the clear dish or box, cut side facing out, until the sides are lined.

step twelve: spoon or pipe a generous layer of matcha mascarpone cream over the ladyfinger base.

step thirteen: scatter a layer of chopped strawberry pieces over the matcha cream.

step fourteen: add a second layer of matcha-soaked ladyfingers, then finish with a final layer of matcha mascarpone cream.

step fifteen: spread the matcha mascarpone cream thin until it’s smooth on top using an offset spatula.

step sixteen: cover the dish with plastic wrap or clingfilm or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. this allows the layers to set and the flavours to meld together beautifully.

step seventeen: the next day, just before serving, dust each matcha tiramisu box or your dish generously with matcha powder through a fine sieve and place some more fresh strawberries on top.

tips and notes

• use good quality matcha. ceremonial grade matcha will give you the best colour – a vivid green rather than a dull khaki – and a cleaner, more complex flavour. it’s worth the investment for a recipe where matcha is the most important flavour.

• make sure to let the matcha and sugar soak cool completely before dipping the ladyfingers in it. if it’s warm or hot, it might make the ladyfingers too soft and they’ll fall apart or get soggy.

• don’t soak the ladyfingers in the matcha for too long. two or three quick dips in the cooled matcha will be enough, as they’ll continue to soften in the fridge overnight.

• highly recommend leaving this strawberry matcha tiramisu to set in the fridge for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight so that the flavours meld together better, the cream sets properly and the matcha soaked ladyfingers can soften nicely.

• this strawberry matcha tiramisu dessert can be stored covered in the fridge for three-four days.

• if you want to make this as a salted caramel trifle recipe, use a clear trifle dish so you can see the beautiful layers!

• this strawberry matcha tiramisu recipe uses raw eggs as i live in a country where raw eggs are generally safe to eat. if you are concerned about the raw eggs in this recipe, you can buy pasteurised eggs if you’re able to find them, or you can gently cook the yolks and whites by using the double boiler method (further details on this in the faqs section).

• do not get any egg yolk into the egg whites as this will prevent the egg whites from whipping. make sure the beaters or whisk are clean and the bow, is clean as well when whipping the egg whites.

• for the matcha mascarpone cream mixture, make sure to use cold double cream or heavy cream straight from the fridge when adding it in otherwise it won’t whip well.

• dust the matcha powder on top just before serving. matcha absorbs moisture quickly and will look patchy or dark if dusted too far in advance.

• for individual servings, i personally like to make this as a matcha tiramisu box, but you can also assemble your strawberry matcha tiramisu in separate cups or jars, or you can just serve this in one big dish.

• this matcha tiramisu recipe would make three individual matcha tiramisu boxes or, if made in a single big dish, would serve around 5-6 people.

frequently asked questions

1. what does this strawberry matcha tiramisu taste like ?

   – this viral matcha tiramisu is earthy, creamy and gently sweet, with the matcha giving a mildly sweet, complex note that runs through both the cream and the soaked ladyfingers. the fresh strawberries add a brightness that lifts every layer. it’s lighter and less indulgent than a classic coffee tiramisu and has a cleaner, more delicate finish.

2. CAN I MAKE THIS strawberry matcha TIRAMISU AHEAD OF TIME ?

   – absolutely! this matcha tiramisu is actually better when made ahead. prepare it the day before and keep it refrigerated. dust matcha powder on top and add some more fresh strawberries before serving for the best presentation.

3. is this strawberry matcha tiramisu healthy ?

   – this matcha tiramisu is a dessert, so i wouldn’t exactly call it healthy, but matcha itself is high in antioxidants and has a good nutritional profile. the mascarpone and sugar are what make it rich rather than the matcha. it’s still a treat, but one made with real, simple ingredients and no artificial flavourings or preservatives.

4. can i make this matcha tiramisu without egg in the cream ?

   – you can make this matcha tiramisu eggless if you’d prefer not using eggs. for a matcha tiramisu recipe with no egg, you can skip the egg yolks and whites and just whip the sugar and mascarpone together instead. whip the vanilla extract, matcha powder AND heavy cream into this mixture, AND this will be your cream filling for the layers. i’d recommend adding a bit more cream to make up for the lack of eggs. using this method will also make this matcha tiramisu easy to make since it’ll be a quick and simple mascarpone cream over a slightly more complicated egg-based one.

5. can i make this matcha tiramisu without mascarpone ?

   – making this matcha tiramisu with no mascarpone won’t give you that authentic tiramisu taste – the texture and flavour will be different. you make this matcha tiramisu with cream cheese if you don’t have mascarpone on hand, just bear in mind that making a matcha tiramisu using cream cheese might give you a dessert that will be slightly tangier and less rich, and the cream cheese might make it more like cheesecake since it lacks the delicate flavour of mascarpone. you might want to add a bit more sugar to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.

6. i can’t find pasteurised eggs – how can i cook the egg yolks and whites before using them in this strawberry matcha tiramisu recipe ?

   – if you can’t find pasteurised eggs, you can cook the egg yolks and whites using a double boiler method:

   • whisk the eggs yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl until the mixture becomes thick

   • place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water

   • whisk constantly until the mixture doubles in volume, becomes thick and foamy, and reaches about 71°c (160°f) on a thermometer 

   • remove from the heat, and continue whisking until pale and thick, then let the mixture cool slightly. 

   • in another heatproof bowl, whisk egg whites and sugar. again, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water. 

   • whisk constantly until the mixture doubles in volume, becomes thick and foamy, and reaches about 71°c (160°f) on a thermometer 

   • remove bowl from the heat, then beat the egg whites until they reach firm peaks. let the egg whites cool slightly.

   • add mascarpone, matcha powder, cream AND vanilla extract to the yolk mixture and mix that in, then fold in the whipped egg whites and proceed with the rest of the recipe. 

7. is this matcha tiramisu no bake or does it have some baked elements to it ?

   – yes, if using store-bought ladyfingers, this matcha tiramisu recipe is no bake. the only heat involved is the hot water used to dissolve the matcha and sugar for the soak.

8. can i make this as a matcha tiramisu parfait ?

   – yes, you could make something similar to a matcha tiramisu parfait by layering the strawberry matcha tiramisu components loosely in tall parfait glasses instead of boxes or a dish. same soaked ladyfingers, same matcha mascarpone cream and fresh strawberries, just in a more casual, informal format. dust with matcha powder on top the same way and add more fresh strawberries.

9. do you make this matcha tiramisu with alcohol ?

   – no, this matcha tiramisu has no alcohol, but you can add a splash of it to the matcha soak if you like.

10. do you have a matcha tiramisu eggless recipe on your website ?

    – no, i don’t have a dedicated recipe for an eggless matcha tiramisu, but i’ve detailed above the steps you should take if you want to make this matcha tiramisu eggless.

11. can i make this matcha tiramisu with no whipping cream ?

    – i love making this matcha tiramisu with whipping cream because it makes the mascarpone cream mixture a bit more light and airy, which works really well with the delicate strawberry and matcha flavours. however, you can absolutely skip the extra heavy cream and rely on the whipped egg whites alone to lighten the mascarpone mixture. the texture will be a bit more thick and rich, but still very good.

12. can i make this matcha tiramisu without ladyfingers ?

    – ladyfingers are the best to use in this matcha tiramisu, because they soften nicely due to the matcha soak and the mascarpone cream but still hold their shape and structure. if you want to make this matcha tiramisu without ladyfingers, i’d recommend using some kind of tea biscuit that can hold its shape, or you could even use slices of cake if you like.

13. can i make this matcha tiramisu gluten free ?

    – yes, to make this matcha tiramisu gluten free, you can use gluten free ladyfingers or sponge fingers, which are available in most large supermarkets and online. everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten free.

14. do i have to make this matcha tiramisu strawberry flavoured ? can i use raspberries instead ?

    – YES, you can absolutely make this matcha tiramisu with raspberries instead of strawberries. raspberry and matcha is also a really good combo, but you can use whatever fruit you like instead of strawberries.

15. CAN I make this matcha tiramisu white chocolate flavoured as well ?

    – yes! white chocolate would work really well in this matcha tiramisu. you can add melted and cooled white chocolate to the mascarpone mixture alongside the matcha powder. white chocolate and matcha is one of the best flavour combinations – sweet, creamy and earthy all at once.

16. can i make a matcha espresso tiramisu ?

    – yes, you can. you could make a matcha espresso tiramisu with an espresso soak for the ladyfingers, and the matcha mascarpone cream. the coffee and matcha flavours complement each other more than you’d expect, and it kind of bridges the gap between a classic tiramisu and this version.

17. can i make a matcha tiramisu drink using this recipe as inspiration ?

    – if you’re looking for a matcha tiramisu drink recipe and love the flavour combination of matcha and mascarpone cream, i do have a matcha tiramisu latte recipe up on this blog – it features a matcha tiramisu latte as well as a coffee one.

18. can i make a matcha ube tiramisu ?

    – yes – there are a number of different flavour combinations that would work really well with matcha. you could split the mascarpone cream into two and flavour one with ube and one with matcha and alternate between the layers.

19. can i use this recipe to make a matcha tiramisu cake ?

    – you can use the matcha mascarpone cream in this recipe as the frosting between the layers in a matcha tiramisu cake, but i don’t currently have a matcha cake recipe on this blog. but i do have this tiramisu cake recipe, which you could use as inspiration.

20. what other matcha tiramisu desserts could i make ?

    – here are some ideas:

    • matcha tiramisu brownie using these matcha brownies as a brownie base. i also have a chocolate tiramisu brownies recipe up on my blog.

    • matcha tiramisu cookies using these browned butter matcha cookies as the base and topped with a mascarpone cream

    • matcha tiramisu birthday cake

    • matcha tiramisu pancake stack with mascarpone cream between each pancake

    • matcha tiramisu french toast

    • matcha tiramisu ice cream or a matcha tiramisu ice cream sandwich similar to the tiramisu ice cream sandwich up on my blog

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