Matcha Cheesecake Bars

Short description

Experience a delightful fusion of creamy richness and earthy matcha flavor with these elegant Matcha Cheesecake Bars. A perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication, they make a refined treat for gatherings or a luxurious afternoon indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesecake bars offer a unique twist on the classic dessert, combining smooth cream cheese with vibrant matcha powder. They are simple to prepare, easily portioned into bars for convenient serving, and retain their flavor and texture whether served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuit crumbs

• unsalted butter, melted

• cream cheese, softened

• granulated sugar

• eggs

• sour cream

• vanilla extract

• matcha green tea powder

• all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 °F (160 °C). Line an 8 × 8‑inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang for easy removal.

2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool slightly.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined.

5. Sift matcha powder and flour together, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.

6. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

8. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake bars to cool inside for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.

9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, before lifting from the pan using parchment overhang and slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 16 bars (2‑inch squares)

• Active prep time: 20 minutes

• Bake time: 30 minutes

• Cooling (oven and fridge): approximately 5 hours

• Total time: ~6 hours (mostly unattended cooling)

Variations

• White chocolate swirl: Melt white chocolate and drizzle over the top before chilling.

• Matcha-lavender: Add a pinch of culinary lavender when mixing matcha for a floral note.

• Nutty crust: Replace one-quarter of the crumb mixture with finely chopped almonds or pistachios for texture.

• Vegan option: Use almond-based cream cheese substitute, coconut yogurt instead of sour cream, and a plant-based butter.

Storage/reheating

Store cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If frozen, wrap each bar in plastic then foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying. Reheating is not recommended, as the delicate texture is best preserved cold or slightly cool.

FAQs

What is the best matcha to use?

Use culinary-grade matcha for baking. It provides vibrant green color and distinct flavor without the expense of ceremonial-grade powder.

How can I tell when it’s done baking?

The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan. It will finish setting as it cools.

Can I make this gluten‑free?

Yes—substitute gluten-free cookies or almond flour for the crust, ensuring the consistency is similar to graham cracker crumbs.

What is the ideal pan size?

An 8 × 8‑inch pan is recommended for the ideal thickness. You may use a 9 × 9‑inch pan, but bars will be slightly thinner and baking time may reduce.

Why do I cool it in the oven with the door open?

This method allows gradual temperature change, reducing the risk of cracks forming in the cheesecake.

Can I skip the sour cream?

Sour cream adds creaminess and slight tang. You may substitute Greek yogurt, though flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How do I prevent overmixing the batter?

Mix only until combined, particularly after adding flour and matcha. Overmixing can introduce air and cause cracks.

Is it possible to bake this ahead of time?

Yes. Bake and refrigeration can be done the day before serving. For longer storage, freeze bars and thaw as needed.

Can I deepen the matcha flavor?

Yes—add up to an additional ½ teaspoon of matcha powder, adjusting to taste. The color will darken as well.

What topping pairs well with these bars?

Lightly whipped cream, fruit compote (such as raspberry or yuzu), or a sprinkle of toasted coconut complement the matcha flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

These Matcha Cheesecake Bars offer a refined dessert experience, showcasing the delicate taste of matcha with the indulgent texture of creamy cheesecake. They are elegant yet approachable, perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment. Prepare them ahead for a stress-free, impressive treat that is both visually stunning and delectable

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