I absolutely love sharing this Matcha Brownies Recipe with friends and family because it strikes the perfect balance between rich fudginess and a vibrant, fresh flavor. From the moment I take a bite, I’m greeted with that beautiful, bright green color that hints at the earthy matcha, combined with a sweet, creamy undertone from the white chocolate that really sets these brownies apart. They have this irresistible crunchy, crinkle top that gives way to a dense, luscious center, making each piece a blissful experience that I keep coming back to. If you love a fun twist on classic brownies, you’re definitely going to enjoy making and eating these.
Why You’ll Love This Matcha Brownies Recipe
What really excites me about this Matcha Brownies Recipe is the flavor profile—it’s like nothing I’ve tried before because the matcha powder brings a subtle, grassy earthiness that complements the sweetness perfectly. The white chocolate chips add a creamy richness, and that crunchy top texture contrasts so nicely with the silky fudgy inside. When I first made these, I was surprised at how the delicate bitterness of the green tea elevates the whole dessert without overpowering it.
Besides tasting fantastic, this recipe is incredibly approachable and forgiving. I honestly didn’t expect to get that professional-looking crackly top or a perfectly nimble texture on my first try, yet it came out beautifully. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully combined so you’ll get a gorgeous baked treat with minimal fuss. I love serving these for casual get-togethers and special occasions alike because they feel unique but not intimidating. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, these brownies bring a little joy every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple is crucial here because each one adds something unique to the flavor, texture, and color of these Matcha Brownies. This way, you get that vibrant green look and deep flavor without unnecessary clutter, making the process easy and the results stunning.
- Unsalted butter (1 1/4 sticks or 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps create that soft, fudgy texture.
- White chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Brings creamy sweetness that balances the matcha’s earthiness.
- Matcha powder (2 tbsp): The star ingredient for vibrant green color and distinct green tea flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness and texture.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle molasses note to deepen flavor.
- Bourbon vanilla extract (3 tsp): Enhances overall flavor with warm aromatic notes.
- Kosher salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
- Large eggs (3): Key for structure and that airy, thick pancake-batter consistency.
- All purpose flour (3/4 cup): Provides structure without weighing down the fudgy texture.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare an 8×8 inch pan by coating it with non-stick spray and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Melt the butter either in the microwave or on the stovetop, heating in 1-minute increments if using the microwave. Make sure it’s fully melted but not browned.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and matcha powder. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir until everything is fully melted and smooth with no lumps—this creates a velvety ganache.
Step 4: In a larger mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat in the eggs for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture looks thick and airy, almost like a thick pancake batter—this step is crucial for that tender crumb.
Step 5: Pour the matcha and white chocolate ganache into the egg and sugar mixture, then mix until incorporated. Add the bourbon vanilla extract next, stirring gently.
Step 6: Sift the all-purpose flour and kosher salt into the batter. Using a rubber spatula, fold the mixture just until combined—try to avoid over mixing, which could make the brownies tough.
Step 7: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. When time is up, carefully remove the pan using oven mitts and tap it on the counter 2 to 3 times to help the top crackle beautifully.
Step 8: Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for another 15 minutes until set but still fudgy in the center.
Step 9: Remove the brownies from the oven and drop the pan on the counter 2 more times. Let them cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour, or chill for 30 minutes if you want crisper edges and easier slicing.
Step 10: Use the parchment paper edges to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean pieces, and enjoy every vibrant, fudgy bite!
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 16 delightful brownies, which are perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings. The prep time is around 15 minutes, and the total bake time adds up to 35 minutes. Including the resting period to let the brownies cool and set perfectly, you’re looking at about 50 minutes total from start to finish. I always find it worth the wait for that perfect texture!
How to Serve This Matcha Brownies Recipe
I love serving these brownies slightly chilled or at room temperature to preserve their fudgy texture. They are fantastic on their own but become absolutely luxurious when paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a bit of extra flair, I sprinkle toasted white sesame seeds or a dusting of matcha powder on top just before serving to tie it all together visually and flavor-wise.
When entertaining, these brownies shine alongside a pot of hot green tea or a light jasmine tea, which complements the earthy matcha beautifully without overwhelming the palate. If you want to offer something festive, a crisp sparkling wine or a matcha-infused cocktail is brilliant to elevate the experience. The bright green color always gets a lot of compliments and makes for such a fun, eye-catching dessert at any holiday or casual get-together.
For portioning, I cut these into smaller squares for parties, so everyone can have a taste without feeling too indulgent. They also store well if you want to prepare them a day ahead, which makes them a handy and impressive option for weeknight desserts or impromptu guests.
Variations
One of the great things about this Matcha Brownies Recipe is how easy it is to adapt. For example, if you don’t have matcha powder, you could experiment by swapping in high-quality green tea powder blends or even adding a teaspoon of spirulina for a similar vibrant look with a different nutrient profile. If you prefer a slightly nuttier twist, stirring in chopped pistachios or white chocolate chunks before baking takes these brownies to another level.
If you follow a gluten-free diet, I’ve successfully replaced the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and the brownies maintain that lovely fudgy texture. For a vegan version, I recommend swapping the butter for a plant-based alternative and using a flax egg instead of chickens eggs, though the texture will be a little less airy but still delicious. For a richer flavor punch, try using almond extract instead of vanilla or fold in some finely grated white chocolate instead of chips.
As for cooking methods, while I stick to the oven baking for consistency, you could try baking these in muffin tins to create individual matcha brownie bites perfect for parties or lunch boxes. Each shape will require a slightly shorter baking time, so keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I always store leftover matcha brownies in an airtight container at room temperature if I plan to eat them within two days, which keeps them soft and moist. For longer storage, placing them in the fridge is fine but they may firm up a bit, so I recommend bringing them to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! I usually cut them into squares first and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can keep for up to 3 months this way. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer to warm the brownies briefly in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This gently softens the fudgy center without drying it out. Avoid reheating for too long or in a hot oven, as that can make the top tough and ruin the chew. A slightly warm brownie is truly the best way to enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth moment again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! While white chocolate pairs perfectly with matcha by offering sweetness and creaminess, you can swap in milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, more mellow flavor or even semi-sweet chocolate chips for a contrast with the earthy matcha. Just keep in mind the flavor balance might shift, and the brownies could be a bit less vibrant in color.
Why do I need to beat the eggs and sugar for so long?
Beating the eggs and sugar for 3 to 5 minutes incorporates air into the batter, which is essential for a light, slightly airy texture in the brownies. It helps create that thick pancake-batter consistency you want and ensures the brownies don’t turn out too dense or heavy.
What causes the crunchy crinkle top on these brownies?
The crunchy top comes from the sugar and egg mixture and the technique of tapping the pan on the counter during baking. This encourages cracks to form on the surface, giving you that signature crinkly, crackled top that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy center.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To veganize this Matcha Brownies Recipe, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and replace the eggs with flax eggs or other egg replacers. The texture will be slightly different—less airy—but you’ll still get delicious fudgy brownies with the same vibrant flavor.
Is matcha powder the same as green tea powder?
Matcha powder is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, and it has a uniquely vibrant flavor and color compared to regular green tea powder, which can be less refined. For this recipe, high-quality culinary matcha powder is best to achieve the beautiful color and authentic flavor.
Conclusion
I can’t recommend this Matcha Brownies Recipe enough if you’re looking for a fun and delicious dessert with a unique twist. It’s such an enjoyable baking experience and the results are stunning—vibrant in color with a perfect balance of rich sweetness and earthy green tea flavor. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, these brownies never fail to bring smiles and a little moment of bliss. I hope you love making and sharing them as much as I do!
