Matcha Pancakes

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Matcha Pancakes are a delightful twist on your classic pancake breakfast, infusing the traditional fluffy stack with vibrant green matcha flavor. Made with high-quality matcha powder, these pancakes have a subtly earthy taste with a hint of natural sweetness, making them an exciting and healthy alternative to regular pancakes. The green color gives them an eye-catching appearance, making them perfect for a special weekend breakfast or brunch with friends and family.

What I love about these pancakes is their versatility—while they’re absolutely delicious on their own, you can top them with anything from fresh berries, honey, and whipped cream to your favorite syrup or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The matcha’s rich, smooth flavor pairs so beautifully with these toppings, elevating the dish to something truly unique. I remember making my first batch of matcha pancakes when I was craving something a bit more exciting than my usual breakfast and instantly fell in love with the flavor combination.

The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these pancakes come together quickly and effortlessly, giving you a delicious start to your day. If you’re looking for a fun way to add some extra nutrients and flavor to your morning, these Matcha Pancakes are the perfect choice—you’ll want to enjoy them again and again!

Perfect for:

  • Weekend brunch
  • A vibrant breakfast option
  • A treat for special occasions
  • A creative way to enjoy matcha
  • A fun dish to impress your guests

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique Flavor: The earthy notes of matcha make these pancakes a standout.
  • Light and Fluffy: These pancakes are perfectly tender and light, providing the perfect base for toppings.
  • Packed with Antioxidants: Matcha is a superfood rich in antioxidants, offering a nutritional boost alongside a delicious breakfast.
  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these pancakes quickly.
  • Customizable: Serve with a variety of toppings to make this dish your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings (2 pancakes per serving)
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon matcha powder (high-quality, culinary grade)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

  • Maple syrup
  • Fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
  • Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
  • Sliced bananas
  • A dusting of additional matcha powder for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Matcha Powder: This bright green powder made from finely ground green tea leaves adds both color and health benefits, such as antioxidants and energy-boosting properties.
  • Milk and Butter: Ensure the pancakes remain soft and fluffy.
  • Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: Provides a creamy element that complements the slightly bitter matcha flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pancake Batter:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should remain slightly lumpy.

Cook the Pancakes:

  1. Preheat the Griddle or Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
  2. Cook the Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Serve the Pancakes:

  1. Serve Immediately: Stack the pancakes on a plate and top with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of additional matcha powder.

How to Serve

  • With Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness that balances the bitterness of the matcha.
  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve with seasonal berries, bananas, or sliced kiwi for extra flavor and texture.
  • With Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: A generous dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt adds creaminess.
  • As a Stack: Layer several pancakes for a hearty breakfast or brunch dish.

Additional Tips

  • Use Culinary-Grade Matcha: Be sure to use culinary-grade matcha powder, which is best for cooking and baking, as it has a more robust flavor.
  • Avoid Overmixing: When making pancake batter, it’s important not to overmix it, as this can make the pancakes dense.
  • Temperature Control: Adjust the heat on your stovetop so that the pancakes cook through without burning on the outside.
  • Batch Cooking: These pancakes can easily be made in advance and reheated for a quick breakfast during the week.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegan Version: For a completely plant-based twist, use a non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). This keeps the pancakes fluffy and moist without any animal products.
  2. Gluten-Free Version: To make these pancakes gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the flour blend you choose contains xanthan gum for structure or consider adding a little yourself to help the pancakes rise and hold together.
  3. Chocolate Matcha Pancakes: Add a handful of chocolate chips to your pancake batter for a beautiful contrast between the earthy flavor of matcha and the sweetness of chocolate. These pancakes will have a delicious balance of flavors and textures.
  4. Banana Matcha Pancakes: Mash a ripe banana into the batter for natural sweetness, added moisture, and a fun flavor combination with the matcha. This variation also increases the fiber and nutrients of your pancakes.
  5. Matcha Pancake Sandwich: Create a hearty breakfast by spreading almond butter or peanut butter between two pancakes to form a sandwich. This makes for a filling, protein-packed meal that is still delightfully light on the inside.
  6. Extra Creamy: For an extra rich and creamy pancake, swap the regular milk with coconut milk. This will give the pancakes a smooth texture and a mild coconut flavor that complements the matcha perfectly.
  7. Matcha Butter: Whip up a matcha-flavored spread by mixing softened butter with matcha powder and a drizzle of maple syrup. This decadent topping will elevate your pancakes, adding a creamy, sweet, and slightly bitter finish. You could also use dairy-free butter for a vegan alternative.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Once your pancakes have cooled completely, stack them with a small piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the container for reference. These pancakes can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or place them in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until they are warmed through.
  • Storage: Leftover pancakes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 2-3 days. For a quick breakfast or snack, reheat the pancakes in a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally, or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm. You can also heat them in a toaster for a slightly crispier texture.

Special Equipment

  • Whisk: Essential for mixing the dry and wet ingredients evenly.
  • Griddle or Non-Stick Skillet: An essential tool for making pancakes without sticking.
  • Spatula: Use to flip the pancakes carefully.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the correct ingredient proportions.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?
    Yes, make the pancakes in advance, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat when ready to serve.
  2. What if I don’t have matcha powder?
    The matcha is the defining ingredient in this recipe. However, you can substitute it with spirulina powder for a different color and slightly different flavor profile.
  3. Can I make these pancakes without eggs?
    Yes, replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg or any other egg substitute you prefer.
  4. Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
    Yes, you can freeze the pancakes for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in a single layer with parchment paper in between for easy separation.
  5. Can I make these pancakes without milk?
    You can use plant-based milk such as almond milk or oat milk to make this recipe dairy-free.

Conclusion

Matcha Pancakes are a vibrant and delicious breakfast treat that brings a healthy twist to your morning routine. Infused with the earthy and slightly bitter flavor of matcha, they are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, making them a nourishing start to your day. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with the unique flavor profile of matcha makes them stand out, while still offering that comforting pancake experience.

These pancakes are quick and simple to make, yet they feel special enough for weekend breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Customize them by adding toppings like fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.

Whip up a batch today and enjoy a beautiful, energizing start to your day! Be sure to capture the moment and share it on Instagram—tag me to celebrate your tasty and colorful creation. Happy flipping!

Leave a Comment