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Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 111 reviews

These Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars feature a buttery matcha shortbread base topped with a smooth, lightly sweetened strawberry cream layer. The combination of earthy green tea and fresh strawberry flavors make these bars a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a crisp crust and a creamy, fruity topping, they are easy to prepare and set in the fridge for a refreshing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Matcha Shortbread

  • 3/4 cup (170g) salted butter, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) all purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp matcha powder

Strawberry Cream

  • 1/4 cup (60g) cold water
  • 2 1/4 tsp powdered gelatin (one standard packet)
  • 2 cups (480g) heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp strawberry jam
  • Pink or red food dye (optional)
  • 4 strawberries, sliced thinly (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare baking tin and preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9 x 9 inch baking tin with parchment paper, making sure the parchment extends at least an inch above the sides and is pressed tightly against the edges.
  2. Make the matcha shortbread dough: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to cream together the butter and 1/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and matcha powder, mixing on medium speed until a cohesive dough forms.
  3. Form the shortbread base: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared tin, ensuring it is tightly packed against the sides without gaps. Use a metal measuring cup or your hands to flatten the dough uniformly. Use a fork to poke holes across the surface to prevent bubbling.
  4. Bake the shortbread: Bake the dough for 18 to 20 minutes until it is lightly browned and set. The crust will be soft and puffy when removed from the oven but will firm up while cooling. Place the baked shortbread in the fridge to chill while preparing the strawberry cream layer.
  5. Bloom the gelatin: Pour 1/4 cup cold water into a small bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over the water surface and allow it to bloom (absorb the water and soften) for a few minutes.
  6. Prepare the strawberry cream: In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, 1 tablespoon sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and strawberry jam. Stir constantly until the sugar and jam dissolve fully, about 5 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil. Optionally, add a few drops of pink or red food dye to achieve a pastel pink color.
  7. Incorporate gelatin: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the bloomed gelatin until it fully dissolves. Let the mixture cool for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
  8. Assemble the bars: Remove the chilled matcha shortbread base from the fridge. Slowly pour the strawberry cream evenly over the shortbread layer. Carefully transfer the baking tin back to the fridge and let the bars set for at least 4 hours to firm up.
  9. Serve and garnish: Once set, cut the bars into 16 equal squares. Dust the tops with a light sprinkle of matcha powder and garnish with thinly sliced strawberries if desired.
  10. Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream mixture does not boil when heating to avoid breaking the texture.
  • Use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
  • Slicing strawberries thinly helps them meld well with the creamy topping without overpowering the texture.
  • Chilling the shortbread before pouring the cream is critical to prevent mixing and keep layers distinct.
  • These bars are best served cold and fresh but will keep well refrigerated.

Keywords: matcha dessert, strawberry cream bars, matcha shortbread, no-bake strawberry topping, green tea bars, creamy dessert, Japanese inspired sweets

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/matcha-strawberry-cream-bars-recipe/