Matcha, with its earthy, slightly bitter flavor and vibrant green color, is the perfect companion for a variety of sweets. Its bold taste contrasts beautifully with sugary confections, balancing out flavors and adding a touch of elegance. Whether you’re sipping matcha or enjoying it in desserts, here are seven of the best sweets that pair perfectly with matcha.
1. Dorayaki
Dorayaki is a classic Japanese sweet consisting of two fluffy pancakes sandwiched around a filling of sweet red bean paste (anko). The mild sweetness of the beans complements matcha’s earthy tones, while the soft pancakes add a light, spongy texture. The combination of flavors and textures makes dorayaki an ideal partner for a cup of matcha, providing just the right amount of sweetness to counterbalance the tea's slight bitterness.
2. Mochi
Mochi is a chewy, glutinous rice cake that comes in many variations. Whether filled with red bean paste or left plain, its sticky texture and subtle sweetness make it a delightful match for matcha. For a traditional experience, enjoy mochi alongside a bowl of ceremonial matcha, or explore more modern versions filled with cream or fruit flavors to create an exciting flavor contrast.
3. Anmitsu
Anmitsu is a traditional Japanese dessert made of agar jelly, sweet red beans, mochi, and fruits, usually served with syrup. The variety of textures—from the chewy mochi to the smooth jelly—and flavors in anmitsu blend wonderfully with matcha, creating a multi-layered and delightful tea-time treat.
4. Wagashi
Wagashi refers to a wide variety of traditional Japanese sweets often served during tea ceremonies. Made from natural ingredients like rice flour, sweet beans, and seasonal fruits, wagashi are delicately flavored and often shaped into intricate designs. The subtle flavors of wagashi provide the perfect counterpoint to matcha’s strong flavor, making them a time-honored combination for formal tea gatherings.
5. Yokan
Yokan is a thick, jelly-like confection made from red bean paste, agar, and sugar. It has a smooth, dense texture and can sometimes include chestnuts or other fillings. Yokan’s sweetness is bold but not overpowering, making it an excellent choice to enjoy with a slightly bitter cup of matcha, especially when you want a rich, indulgent treat to complement your tea.
6. Dango
Dango are small, chewy rice flour dumplings skewered on sticks and often served with a sweet soy sauce glaze or red bean paste. Their chewy texture and subtle sweetness create a pleasing contrast to the bold taste of matcha. Dango’s simplicity and rich texture make it a great snack to enjoy alongside a bowl of matcha.
7. Taiyaki
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste or custard. Its crispy exterior and soft, sweet filling make it a perfect companion to matcha. The cake’s crispness adds a delightful texture contrast, while the sweetness of the filling pairs beautifully with the bold, green flavor of matcha tea.
Conclusion
Matcha's unique flavor lends itself well to pairing with a variety of Japanese sweets, from traditional wagashi to modern interpretations like matcha cheesecake. Whether you prefer chewy mochi, rich yokan, or light swiss rolls, the balance of earthy matcha and sweet confections creates a harmonious taste experience that elevates both elements. Next time you enjoy matcha, consider trying one of these delicious sweets to complement your tea!