Japanese matcha mochi cake: A vegetarian baking guide
The Japanese matcha mochi cake is a unique fusion of traditional mochi and Western cake, offering a distinct texture and flavor. Originating from Japan, it combines mochi's chewiness with matcha green tea's earthiness. This vegetarian, eggless dessert suits various dietary preferences. Ideal for tea time or as a special treat, it's perfect for those ready to bake something new.
Gather the following ingredients
To make this delicious cake, you will need one cup of sweet rice flour (mochiko), one teaspoon of baking powder, two tablespoons of matcha green tea powder, three-fourths cup of sugar, one cup of coconut milk, and half a cup of water. Additionally, you'll require one-fourth cup of vegetable oil and some powdered sugar for dusting.
Preparing the dry mix
Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175 degrees Celsius). Take a large mixing bowl and sift the sweet rice flour (mochiko), baking powder, and matcha green tea powder together. This crucial step ensures your dry mix is free of lumps, promoting an even distribution of the matcha's earthy flavor throughout the cake.
Mixing wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the coconut milk, water, vegetable oil, and sugar until well blended. Coconut milk enriches the cake with a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free. It's essential to mix until the sugar is fully dissolved, ensuring the cake's texture remains smooth without any gritty bits. This step contributes significantly to the overall quality of your final product.
Combining ingredients & baking
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Once you have a smooth batter without any dry spots remaining, pour it into an oiled eight-inch square baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and serving
After baking, cool the cake in its pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then transfer to a serving plate. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares or shapes. Serve with tea or as is for an authentic taste. Enjoy this Japanese matcha mochi cake as a delightful vegetarian and eggless treat anytime.
