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
Scale
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
