There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen, and these Buttery Matcha Latte Bars are no exception. Picture it: the lush green of matcha powder blending seamlessly with rich, creamy butter, transforming your ordinary afternoon snack into an elegant indulgence. I discovered this recipe during a rainy afternoon, looking to combine my love for matcha and a craving for something sweet.
These delightful bars are not only simple to prepare—whipping together ingredients in under 15 minutes—but they also impress everyone who takes a bite. Their unique flavor profile balances buttery richness with the earthy notes of matcha, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Perfect for a cozy coffee date or as a playful addition to any gathering, each square bursts with effortless charm. Dive in and awaken your taste buds to a treat that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Buttery Matcha Latte Bars
- These Buttery Matcha Latte Bars are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delightful treat in just 15 minutes of prep time.
- The unique flavor combination of rich butter and earthy matcha creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to leave everyone wanting more.
- With their vibrant green hue and luscious texture, these bars are visually stunning and elevate any dessert table, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Perfectly portioned for sharing, they are a crowd-pleasing addition to coffee dates or casual gatherings, effortlessly impressing your friends and family.
Buttery Matcha Latte Bars Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this delightful treat!
For the Batter
- Unsalted butter – adds rich creaminess; feel free to substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens and contributes to tenderness; brown sugar can be used for added moisture.
- Brown sugar – enhances flavor depth; if unavailable, use more granulated sugar.
- All-purpose flour – forms the base; can be swapped with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Matcha powder – brings a unique earthy flavor and vibrant color, making these Buttery Matcha Latte Bars stand out.
- Baking powder – helps the bars rise for a delightful texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors; a pinch goes a long way!
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients and contribute to the structure; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
How to Make Buttery Matcha Latte Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This step ensures your bars come out easily without sticking!
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Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This is the foundation for that delicious buttery flavor.
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Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a cohesive batter that will be rich and smooth.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl until combined. The vibrant green matcha should be evenly distributed for a gorgeous hue throughout.
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Combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture gradually, stirring gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
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Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface. This makes for even baking and delightful squares.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bars spring back lightly when touched. Keep an eye on them—golden brown is the goal!
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Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. This allows the bars to set perfectly, giving you beautiful, neat pieces.
Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Matcha Latte Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerate the wet mixture in an airtight container and the dry mixture in another. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine them as instructed and pour the batter into the baking dish. This not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also helps maintain the vibrant color and delightful texture of the bars. Just remember to let them cool completely before slicing, ensuring each square is just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Buttery Matcha Latte Bars?
Enhance your experience with delightful pairings that complement the richness of matcha and butter in this scrumptious treat.
- Rich Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the buttery sweetness, making each bite feel like a comforting hug.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm bars, creating a decadent dessert situation. Try serving a scoop alongside for that perfect indulgence!
- Berry Compote: A tart berry compote brightens the flavors, adding a splash of color and a refreshing note that balances the sweetness.
- Green Tea Smoothie: A cool, blended smoothie made with spinach, banana, and matcha resonates with the earthy matcha flavors while adding a refreshing twist.
- Spiced Chai Latte: Warm, spiced chai pairs perfectly with the bars, bringing an exotic flair that complements their sumptuous texture and taste. The aromatic spices enhance the overall experience as you sip.
- Lemon Tart: A zesty lemon tart serves as a bright contrast, cutting through the richness of the bars and providing a delightful palate cleanse.
- Chocolate Hazel Nut Spread: Spreading a layer of this indulgent goodness on a square of your bars adds an extra dimension of flavor that’s sure to impress everyone at your gathering.
- White Tea: This light and floral tea offers a delicate pairing that allows the subtle flavors of matcha to shine, perfect for an afternoon tea setup.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical flair, enhancing the richness of the bars while satisfying your sweet tooth in a unique way.
Buttery Matcha Latte Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these Buttery Matcha Latte Bars to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a plant-based version. The coconut oil will impart a subtle tropical flavor that complements the matcha beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free, and enjoy these bars just as deliciously without the gluten!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts to add a delightful crunch and rich flavor. The texture will elevate your bars and introduce a new dimension.
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Sweetened with Honey: Replace granulated and brown sugar with 3/4 cup of honey for a natural sweetness. This will make the bars incredibly moist, but be cautious of baking time, as they may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
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Choco-Matcha Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an irresistible chocolatey contrast with the matcha flavor. Think of it as a matcha latte with rich chocolate undertones.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients to introduce a warm spice layer that perfectly complements the matcha’s earthiness. This small addition can elevate the overall flavor profile tremendously.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into the batter for a refreshing burst of citrus that brightens the flavors. The zest will resonate beautifully with the matcha and create a delightful zing.
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Matcha Swirl: Instead of mixing matcha directly into the batter, reserve a few tablespoons of the batter, combine with extra matcha, and swirl it through the unbaked batter for a stunning marbled effect. It’s an eye-catching twist that adds visual appeal to your bars.
How to Store and Freeze Buttery Matcha Latte Bars
Room Temperature: Store your Buttery Matcha Latte Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag to maintain their freshness.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will restore their creamy goodness, perfect for enjoying a fresh treat anytime.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Buttery Matcha Latte Bars turn out perfectly, always start by checking that your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars.
- When adding the eggs, incorporate them one at a time and mix thoroughly to achieve a smooth, cohesive batter that holds together well.
- Mixing your dry ingredients separately before combining them with the wet ingredients can help prevent clumping of matcha powder, ensuring an even distribution of flavor and color.
- Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs for the ideal texture.
Buttery Matcha Latte Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of matcha powder should I use?
Absolutely! When selecting matcha powder for your Buttery Matcha Latte Bars, look for culinary-grade matcha that’s vibrant green and finely ground. This type has the right flavor profile and is perfect for baking. Avoid ceremonial-grade matcha, which is meant for whisking into tea and is often more expensive.
How should I store my Buttery Matcha Latte Bars?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they can stay good for about 5 days. Just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the Buttery Matcha Latte Bars, and how do I do it?
Very! Freezing your Buttery Matcha Latte Bars is a great way to preserve them. Individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their delicious creaminess.
What should I do if my bars come out too dry or too dense?
If you find your Buttery Matcha Latte Bars are a bit dry, it could be a sign of overbaking or too much flour added to the batter. Ensure you’re only mixing until just combined and checking them around the 20-minute mark! If they come out dense, consider using room temperature eggs and ensuring your baking powder is fresh, as these factors contribute to lightness and texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for these bars?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for substitutions, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), making them vegan-friendly. For those avoiding gluten, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful treat too! Always check your matcha powder for potential allergens if needed.
Buttery Matcha Latte Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl until combined.
- Combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture gradually, stirring gently until just blended.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bars spring back lightly when touched.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
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