As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of matcha danced through the air, instantly transporting me to a serene tea house in Japan. These Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies with Creamy Matcha Ganache are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. Combining the delightful chewiness of mochi with the rich, earthy flavor of culinary matcha, this recipe offers an irresistible twist on a classic brownie. Perfect for those who crave homemade treats that are as pleasing to the palate as they are to the eyes, these brownies are quick to whip up and sure to become a crowd favorite. With each bite, you’ll find yourself savoring a layer of creamy ganache that takes the flavor up a notch. Ready to indulge in something uniquely delicious? Let’s dive into this matcha-filled adventure together!
Why Try Matcha Mochi Brownies?
Unique Fusion: Experience a delightful blend of matcha and mochi in these brownies that transcends traditional desserts.
Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a wonderfully chewy consistency, thanks to the sweet glutinous rice flour (mochiko) which sets these brownies apart from the rest.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this indulgent treat without the fuss. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers!
Impressive Presentation: The glossy layer of creamy matcha ganache creates an eye-catching finish, making them a stunning addition to any gathering.
Pair with Tea: For an authentic experience, serve these brownies with a cup of green tea to enhance the earthy matcha flavor, similar to the options mentioned in our serving suggestions.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a surprise guest, these brownies will be a hit, satisfying sweet cravings while introducing your loved ones to an exquisite flavor combo.
Matcha Mochi Brownies Ingredients
• Get ready to explore the flavors!
For the Brownies
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and aids browning; brown sugar can be used for added flavor.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together for great texture; flax eggs are a vegan alternative.
- Culinary Matcha Powder – Gives the brownies their distinct green color and earthy flavor; ensure it’s culinary grade for baking.
- Vanilla Paste/Extract – Enhances flavor depth; almond extract offers a fun twist as a substitute.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; opt for non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for variation.
- Mochiko (Sweet Glutinous Rice Flour) – Essential for the chewy texture; do not substitute with regular rice flour.
- Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; table salt can work with a slight reduction.
For the Ganache
- White Chocolate Chips – Forms the base of the ganache, offering sweetness and creaminess; dark chocolate makes a fantastic alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a smooth ganache texture; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Indulge in these Matcha Mochi Brownies with a creamy ganache that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Mochi Brownies w/ Matcha Ganache
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 9×9-inch metal baking pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of your Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies after baking.
Step 2: Mix Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add in the eggs, culinary matcha, and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly. Gradually pour in half of the milk, mixing until well combined. The batter should be rich and fragrant, setting the stage for your matcha brownies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Fold in the mochiko (sweet glutinous rice flour) and fine sea salt into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture is uniform and no dry patches remain. The batter will be thick and somewhat sticky, characteristic of these delightful chewy brownies, which is exactly what you want for your Matcha Mochi Brownies.
Step 4: Bake
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. This cooling time allows for easier slicing later and helps the texture of your chewy matcha brownies set nicely.
Step 6: Make Ganache
While the brownies cool, prepare the matcha ganache. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Sift in the culinary matcha powder, stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Assemble
Once the brownies are cool, pour the creamy matcha ganache over the top, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This glossy layer adds a delicious finishing touch to your Matcha Mochi Brownies, making them even more tempting.
Step 8: Slice & Serve
Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes to allow the ganache to set. After chilling, remove from the fridge and slice into 9 squares. Serve these delectable treats to friends and family, and watch their faces light up with delight as they enjoy your homemade Matcha Mochi Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies with Creamy Matcha Ganache are perfect for meal prep, making your sweet indulgence easier than ever! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. The ganache can also be made ahead of time; simply chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the brownies as instructed and pour the ganache over once cooled. This method ensures that your brownies are just as delicious and chewy as when freshly made, saving you time for busier days!
Matcha Mochi Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Matcha Mochi Brownies; customizing recipes can turn good into extraordinary!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream in the ganache for a deliciously creamy dairy-free option. It’ll offer a subtly sweet twist while keeping that luscious texture.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds to the brownie batter for a delightful crunchy texture that perfectly complements the chewiness. The added nutty flavor will elevate the brownie experience!
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the ganache to add a bright, refreshing contrast to the earthy matcha. This subtle zing contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Higher Tea Flavor: Infuse the ganache with a hint of earl grey tea; just steep a tea bag in the cream before combining with white chocolate. This unique flair adds herbal notes that are simply sublime!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the brownie batter. The warmth will surprise you and create a playful balance with the sweetness!
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Gluten-Free: Although the recipe is already gluten-free with mochiko, you can replace sugar with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Creamy Coconut Ganache: Swap white chocolate with melted dairy-free dark chocolate in the ganache, mixed with coconut cream, for a rich, decadent twist. You’ll find it’s a delicious alternative that doesn’t skimp on sweetness.
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Matcha Swirl: Instead of a full ganache coating, create a marbled effect by reserving some brownie batter, swirling it with the ganache before chilling. It makes for an eye-catching treat that is also fun to make!
Remember, each twist adds a personal touch that transforms your Matcha Mochi Brownies into a unique dessert experience. Dive into your creativity, and if you’re serving these beauties, why not pair them with a soothing cup of Japanese matcha tea, as suggested in our serving suggestions? Enjoy the journey of flavor exploration!
Expert Tips for Matcha Mochi Brownies
Quality Matcha: Use culinary-grade matcha for baking to achieve the best flavor and vibrant color in your brownies.
Precision is Key: Avoid common mistakes by measuring your mochiko accurately; using too much can affect the chewy texture.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the brownies and test with a toothpick a few minutes early to prevent drying out these chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies.
Cool Properly: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps maintain their delicate texture and avoid crumbling.
Ganache Consistency: Make sure your ganache is smooth. If it’s too thick after adding matcha, stir in a bit more cream to reach the desired consistency.
What to Serve with Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies with Creamy Matcha Ganache
Imagine the comforting ambiance of a sweet spread alongside your delightful creations, enhancing your dessert experience in every way.
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Green Tea: This classic pairing amplifies the earthy qualities of the matcha, creating a harmonious duo that soothes the palate.
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Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing contrast to the dense brownies, coconut sorbet adds a creamy texture while keeping the flavors light and uplifting.
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Chia Seed Pudding: Pair it with a scoop of chia seed pudding for a healthy, creamy contrast that complements the rich matcha flavor beautifully.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries introduces a burst of natural sweetness and freshness, balancing the brownies’ richness.
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Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream can accompany these brownies, providing a delightful texture contrast with its fluffy charm.
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Ice Cream Float: A fun twist, float a scoop of vanilla ice cream in warm matcha latte to create a luscious pairing that’s creamy and comforting.
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Chocolate Espresso Martini: To elevate the dessert experience, sip on a chocolate espresso martini; the flavors meld into a delightful espresso buzz.
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Matcha Affogato: Drizzling hot matcha over a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your brownies into a decadent dessert experience, all while keeping the matcha theme alive.
Let your baking adventure shine as you discover these mouth-watering compliments to your Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies!
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Mochi Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep the Matcha Mochi Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the brownies in the fridge for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to meld but note they may become slightly denser.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months; they will retain their delicious taste.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, let the brownies thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving, restoring their delightful chewiness.
Matcha Mochi Brownies with Matcha Ganache Recipe FAQs
What type of matcha should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use culinary-grade matcha powder specifically intended for baking. This type is richer in flavor and ideal for desserts, ensuring that the earthy taste shines through in your Matcha Mochi Brownies.
How can I tell if my eggs are fresh enough to use?
Very! A simple way to check the freshness of eggs is to submerge them in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lay flat on their sides, while older eggs will stand upright or float. If they float, it’s best to discard them.
How should I store my Matcha Mochi Brownies?
For optimal freshness, keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but they may become slightly denser.
Can I freeze Matcha Mochi Brownies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze the brownies, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 1 hour. This will help restore their delightful chewiness.
What should I do if my brownies come out too dry?
The more the merrier! To avoid dry brownies, make sure to monitor their baking time closely. Testing with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer goes off will help; they should come out with a few moist crumbs rather than completely clean. If they still turn out dry, you can enjoy them warm with some ice cream or sauce, which introduces moisture back into the bite.
Are these brownies suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Very! Using mochiko, which is a sweet glutinous rice flour, makes these brownies gluten-free. However, always ensure that all other ingredients, like baking soda or chocolate, are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Chewy Matcha Mochi Brownies w/ Creamy Matcha Ganache Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs, culinary matcha, and vanilla, and mix well.
- Add half of the milk, and mix until well combined. Fold in mochiko and fine sea salt until no dry patches remain.
- Spread the batter into the baking pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.
- For the ganache, combine white chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in increments until melted and smooth. Stir in culinary matcha.
- Pour ganache over cooled brownies and spread evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 45 minutes, slice into 9 squares, and serve.
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