If you enjoy desserts with a creamy texture and a gentle green tea flavor, matcha tiramisu is worth adding to your homemade dessert collection. This no-bake treat combines layers of matcha-infused mascarpone cream with delicate ladyfinger biscuits dipped in a sweet green tea mixture.

Unlike a traditional version, this variation uses matcha in both the creamy filling and the biscuit dipping mixture. The result is a dessert with a noticeable green tea taste, balanced sweetness, and a soft texture. It can be prepared in one larger dish or divided into smaller containers for individual servings.

Ingredients

Matcha Mascarpone Cream

3 large egg yolks

70 g granulated sugar

225 g mascarpone cheese, at room temperature

350 g whipping cream

2 teaspoons sifted matcha powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Matcha Soak

2 teaspoons sifted matcha powder

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

120 g hot water

24–30 ladyfingers

Topping

2 teaspoons matcha powder

Preparation and Assembly Instructions

1. Add approximately 1 inch of water to a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. In a heatproof mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 70 g of sugar until combined.

2. Turn off the heat and place the mixing bowl over the hot water, making sure its base does not touch the water. Continue whisking for approximately 5 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes paler.

3. Remove the bowl and immediately add the room-temperature mascarpone. Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and creamy, then set it aside.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the whipping cream, 2 teaspoons of matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to whip everything until medium peaks form. The cream should hold some structure while remaining soft rather than becoming completely stiff.

5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Continue until the color and texture are even, with no visible streaks. Set the finished filling aside.

6. Prepare the dipping mixture by whisking the remaining matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the hot water in a shallow bowl. Mix for approximately 30 seconds until the liquid becomes lightly frothy.

7. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the matcha mixture, coating both sides. Allow excess liquid to drip away before placing the biscuits in the bottom of your chosen serving dish. Arrange them in an even layer.

8. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the biscuits and smooth the surface. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream. Smooth the top with a spatula.

9. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period allows the cream to become firmer and the biscuits to soften. Just before serving, sift matcha powder over the surface.

Tips for a Smooth and Balanced Dessert

A few details can make a noticeable difference in the final texture. First, allow the mascarpone to reach room temperature before mixing. Cold cheese may be difficult to combine smoothly with the egg mixture, leaving small lumps in the filling. Pay attention to the whipping cream as it thickens. Medium peaks are the goal: the cream should have enough structure to support the layers but still feel soft. Overwhipping can affect the consistency, so stop once it reaches the right stage.

The ladyfingers also need careful handling. Dip each biscuit quickly rather than leaving it in the matcha liquid. They will continue absorbing moisture while the dessert chills. Soaking them too thoroughly at the beginning can leave the finished layers overly soft. Matcha quality matters because its flavor is present throughout the dessert. Choose a good-quality powder with a pleasant green tea taste, and sift it before mixing to help prevent clumps.

Storage and Make-Ahead Preparation

This dessert is well suited to advance preparation. It needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator, although leaving it overnight gives the layers more time to settle. You can prepare it one or two days before serving and keep it covered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, place the tiramisu in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to one month. Transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight before serving.

Matcha tiramisu offers a simple way to enjoy green tea flavor in a creamy, layered dessert. Its mascarpone filling, lightly softened ladyfingers, and delicate matcha topping create a pleasing combination without requiring an oven. The preparation is manageable, and much of the work can be completed ahead of time. Serve it in individual dishes or present it in one larger container for everyone to share. Either way, allowing enough chilling time is the key to bringing all the layers together.