Cake Recipe
Matcha Roll Cake – 15 Basic Process
Feb
Matcha roll cake not only impresses with its delicate beauty but also with the unique flavor it brings. Let’s explore the magic of this cake and how to make it together in the article below.
What is a matcha roll cake?
Matcha roll cake is a type of sponge cake that is flavored with matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. It is a popular Japanese dessert known for its vibrant green color and distinctive flavor. The cake itself is light and fluffy, typically made by whisking together eggs, sugar, flour, and matcha powder to create a sponge-like texture.
Once baked, the cake is rolled with a filling, often consisting of sweetened whipped cream or azuki bean paste, to create a spiral pattern when sliced. Matcha roll cake is enjoyed for its delicate sweetness and the earthy, slightly bitter taste of the matcha, making it a beloved treat for tea enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients needed to make matcha roll cake
To make matcha roll cake, you will typically need the following ingredients:
Matcha powder
This is the key ingredient that gives the cake its distinctive green color and flavor. Make sure to use high-quality matcha powder for the best results.
Eggs
Both whole eggs and egg whites are commonly used in matcha roll cake recipes. Eggs provide structure and help the cake rise.
Granulated sugar
Sugar is used to sweeten the cake batter and stabilize the egg foam.
Cake flour
Cake flour is preferred for its fine texture, which helps create a light and fluffy cake.
Baking powder
Baking powder is used as a leavening agent to help the cake rise and become airy.
Salt
A small amount of salt is often added to enhance the flavor of the cake.
Milk
Milk adds moisture to the cake batter and helps create a tender crumb.
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Fat is needed to keep the cake moist and tender. Vegetable oil or melted butter are common choices.
Vanilla extract (optional)
Vanilla extract can be added for extra flavor, though it’s not always necessary in matcha roll cake recipes.
Filling
The filling for matcha roll cake can vary, but commonly used options include whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or azuki bean paste (anko).
Powdered sugar (optional)
Powdered sugar can be dusted on top of the rolled cake for decoration and added sweetness.
Process of making matcha roll cake
Here is a basic process for making matcha roll cake:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe, usually around 350°F (180°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Prepare the dry ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the cake flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting helps to aerate the dry ingredients and remove any lumps.
Prepare the wet ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add milk and vegetable oil (or melted butter) to the egg mixture, along with any additional flavorings like vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Whip the egg whites
In another clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will create volume and structure in the cake.
Fold in the egg whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula. This technique helps to maintain the light and airy texture of the cake.
Spread the batter
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a thin layer using an offset spatula.
Bake the cake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cake for the time specified in your recipe, usually around 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when lightly pressed.
Roll the cake
Once the cake is baked, immediately remove it from the oven and carefully invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper or baking mat from the bottom of the cake. Starting from one of the shorter edges, gently roll the cake up together with the towel into a tight spiral. This helps the cake to hold its shape when filled.
Cool the cake
Place the rolled cake on a wire rack to cool completely, seam side down.
Prepare the filling
While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling of your choice, such as whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or azuki bean paste.
Fill the cake
Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll the cake again
Carefully re-roll the cake, this time without the towel, starting from the same end as before. Use your hands to gently shape the roll as you go.
Chill the cake
Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours to set the filling and firm up the cake.
Serve
Once chilled, unwrap the cake and transfer it to a serving platter. Slice and serve, optionally dusting with powdered sugar or garnishing with additional matcha powder or whipped cream.
In conclusion
Matcha roll cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a colorful experience. From its delicate beauty to its unique flavor, each sip of matcha roll cake brings a special feeling, like an adventure through the culture and traditions of the land of the rising sun.
