Steamed Matcha Cake: Light, Fluffy and Fragrant

Matcha Steamed Cake—also known as Mushi Pan—is a light, fluffy Japanese treat with a delicate green tea flavour. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthier snack. Enjoy this comforting classic with a gentle matcha twist.

Ingredients (makes 4 steamed cakes):

• 1 large egg (about 50 g without shell)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp plain yogurt
• 1 1/2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (about 60 g)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp matcha Organic Ceremonial Matcha

Optional filling:

• Sweet red bean paste (anko)

Method:

Step 1: Set up the steamer

1. Prepare the pan: Wrap the lid of your pan with a clean tea towel so condensation doesn’t drip onto the cakes. Place 4 empty ramekins in the pan and add enough water to reach halfway up the sides. Remove the ramekins, cover, and bring the water to a boil.

Step 2: Make the batter

1. Mix the wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk the egg and neutral oil. Add honey and yogurt, then mix well. Stir in the sugar.
2. Add the dry ingredients: Sift flour and baking powder together, then fold into the egg mixture. Sift the matcha, then gently mix until the batter is smooth.

Step 3: Steam the cakes

1. Prep the ramekins: Place cupcake liners into each ramekin. Divide the batter evenly between them.
2. Steam: Once the water is boiling, place the filled ramekins into the pan. Cover and steam over medium-low heat for 12 to 14 minutes. Check doneness with a skewer—it should come out clean.

Step 4: Serve

1. Enjoy right away: Remove the ramekins and serve the cakes warm. Add an optional spoon of anko for an even more authentic Japanese touch.

Tip:

For a more creative look, you can add simple patterns using different coloured batters (as shown in tutorial versions). These cakes are also delicious topped with fresh fruit or a spoonful of whipped cream.

Nutrition highlight:

Light and satisfying, this steamed cake is a great snack option. Matcha adds antioxidants—ideal for a gentle, feel-good energy boost.

When to enjoy it?

Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack—especially with tea or coffee.

Diet-friendly:

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a suitable flour alternative. It’s vegetarian by default, and you can swap yogurt for plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Useful links

• Discover our organic ceremonial matcha to make these matcha steamed cakes.
• Also try our Matcha Latte recipe for another green tea treat.
• Are you a professional? We’re also a matcha supplier for businesses.