If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, a dreamy cloud of matcha-infused cream cheese filling, and a jewel-bright layer of fresh strawberries glistening under a sweet jam glaze. These bars perfectly balance earthy matcha, tangy cream, and juicy berries for a treat that’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering or simply make your afternoon snack feel extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars that taste like they came from a fancy bakery. Each component plays a starring role, from the crisp crust to the vibrant, creamy filling and the show-stopping strawberry topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These create the perfect crunchy, buttery base that holds everything together and adds a toasty flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to both the crust and the filling, balancing the earthy notes of matcha.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust and gives it a rich, buttery taste that melts in your mouth.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides the creamy, tangy foundation for the filling, making every bite luscious and smooth.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and enhances the overall aroma of the bars.
- Matcha green tea powder: Brings gorgeous color and earthy, aromatic flavor that makes these bars truly unique.
- Heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks): Lightens the filling, creating a fluffy, mousse-like texture that’s pure heaven.
- Fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced): The topping’s star, adding freshness, juiciness, and vibrant color to every square.
- Strawberry jam (warmed slightly): Just a drizzle brings shine and concentrated berry flavor, tying the whole dessert together.
How to Make Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. This helps the bars release easily later. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely—this step ensures your base stays crisp and delicious under the creamy layers.
Step 2: Whip Up the Matcha Cream Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and matcha powder together until the mixture is silky smooth and gorgeously green. Next, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream, being careful not to deflate all that lovely air you just whipped in. This is where the magic happens: the filling becomes light, airy, and packed with matcha flavor.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Spoon the matcha cream filling onto the cooled crust, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer right up to the edges. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the filling is set and sliceable. This chill time is essential for achieving those perfectly clean, creamy layers when you cut the bars.
Step 4: Top with Strawberries and Glaze
Just before serving, arrange the sliced strawberries in a single, generous layer over the matcha cream. To finish, gently drizzle the warmed strawberry jam over the fruit. This not only adds a beautiful sheen but also a pop of sweet-tart flavor that elevates the whole dessert.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once the Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars are topped and glazed, use a sharp knife to cut them into neat squares. Serve them chilled for the best texture and flavor—you’ll love how the creamy filling contrasts with the crisp crust and juicy strawberries.
How to Serve Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars
Garnishes
A simple dusting of extra matcha powder or a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings can make your Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars look extra elegant. If you want to add even more flair, scatter a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with a cup of hot green tea or an iced matcha latte for a double dose of green tea goodness. For a more decadent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving at a party, try cutting the bars into bite-sized pieces and skewering them with cocktail picks for a fun, elegant dessert platter. You can also layer the ingredients in small glasses for a deconstructed parfait version of Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars—perfect for individual servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two days, though the strawberries are at their juiciest on the first day.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the bars (without the fresh strawberry topping) tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and add fresh strawberries and jam just before serving for best results.
Reheating
These bars are meant to be enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen them, just allow them to thaw in the fridge until soft and creamy again before adding the fruit topping and serving.
FAQs
Can I make Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars without baking the crust?
Absolutely! For a no-bake version, simply chill the crust in the fridge for at least 30 minutes instead of baking it. The butter will firm up and hold the crust together beautifully.
What type Dessert
Use a good-quality culinary matcha powder for the best color and flavor. Ceremonial grade works too, but it’s pricier and not necessary for baking. Look for a vibrant green shade for the prettiest results.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Fresh strawberries are best for topping because they hold their shape and shine under the jam glaze. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well first, but be aware the texture may be softer and a bit wetter.
How do I prevent the filling from becoming runny?
Be sure to whip the cream to stiff peaks and fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture. Also, allow the bars to chill for the full three hours so the filling can set properly before slicing.
Can I make Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars ahead for a party?
Definitely! Prepare the bars (except for the fresh fruit topping) up to a day in advance. Add the strawberries and glaze just before serving for the freshest look and taste.
Final Thoughts
If you love desserts that are as stunning as they are scrumptious, you’ve got to try Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars. They’re easy enough for a weekday treat but special enough to serve to guests. Give them a whirl and let these vibrant, creamy bars bring a touch of sweet magic to your next occasion!
Print
Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake or Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion (Japanese-inspired)
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars are a delightful fusion dessert combining the earthy flavor of matcha green tea with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. A crisp graham cracker crust anchors a creamy, smooth matcha-infused filling, topped with vibrant strawberries glazed in strawberry jam for a refreshing finish. Perfectly balanced and visually stunning, these bars make an elegant, easy-to-make treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam, warmed slightly
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and matcha powder until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. Carefully fold in the whipped cream, using a gentle motion to preserve the airy texture, until the filling is fully combined without streaks.
- Assemble and chill: Evenly spread the matcha cream filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the bars in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
- Add the topping and serve: Just before serving, arrange the sliced fresh strawberries over the chilled bars. Drizzle the warmed strawberry jam over the fruit to create a beautiful, glossy glaze. Cut into 9 bars and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a no-bake variation, skip baking the crust and simply press it into the pan, then chill until firm.
- For added decoration, try topping with white chocolate shavings or a light dusting of extra matcha powder.
- These bars are best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain the freshness of the strawberry topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
