You know those days when you want to treat yourself (and maybe a few lucky guests) to something a little extra special—but without making a big mess or turning on the oven? That’s exactly where this Matcha Tiramisu comes in. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a little celebration, layered with care and love, and just different enough to feel fresh and exciting.
What I love most is how the matcha adds this subtle, cozy flavor that plays so well with the creamy layers. Plus, the whole process is a joy—dipping, spreading, stacking. If you’ve got curious little hands nearby, they’ll want to help too!
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything from the ingredients and simple steps to helpful tips and fun serving ideas. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a brunch, or just because it’s Tuesday, this is one recipe that brings smiles with every bite. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Matcha Tiramisu Recipe

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen wondering how to make something feel extra special without too much fuss, this Matcha Tiramisu is your answer. It’s one of those desserts that looks impressive on the table but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re prepping it for a weekend get-together or just treating yourself midweek (because why not?), this recipe brings beauty and comfort together in one chilled dish.
Here’s why this one’s a keeper:
- Family-friendly layers of fun. There’s something so satisfying about dipping, layering, and dusting. It’s a wonderful recipe to make with kids or loved ones—it turns into a little project everyone can enjoy.
- No baking required. Yep, you can leave the oven off for this one. Just layer, chill, and let the fridge do the rest. Perfect for warmer days or when you just don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
- Beautiful to serve. That soft green color from the matcha makes this dessert feel calm, modern, and totally photo-worthy. It’s a matcha tiramisu aesthetic moment every time.
- Flexible and customizable. Want to add strawberries for a fruity twist? Go for a strawberry matcha tiramisu vibe. Need a dairy-free version? A quick swap makes this a lovely vegan matcha tiramisu.
- Make-ahead friendly. You can prepare this a day ahead of time, which is a lifesaver if you’re hosting or simply like planning ahead.
- Layers of flavor in every bite. Between the soft ladyfingers soaked in matcha tea and the creamy mascarpone blend, every spoonful is balanced, smooth, and just the right touch of indulgent.
There’s just something heartwarming about a dessert that invites you to slow down and enjoy the process—from the first dusting of matcha to the last forkful. And once you see how simple it is to pull off, you’ll find yourself making it for all kinds of occasions.
Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to bring this dessert to life.
Matcha Tiramisu Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get your kitchen set up for something delicious! This Matcha Tiramisu recipe keeps it simple with a handful of ingredients you can layer and chill—no oven required. You’ll find everything you need right here, plus a few fun extras if you’re feeling creative.
Basic Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to build those dreamy green layers:
- 24 ladyfingers – These act as the sponge-like base, soaking up the matcha tea and giving the tiramisu its soft structure.
- 3 tablespoons matcha powder – You’ll use 2 tablespoons for the dipping tea and 1 for dusting and tinting the cream. Choose a quality culinary-grade matcha for the best flavor and color.
- 1¼ cups hot water – Used to make the matcha tea for soaking the ladyfingers.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – Lightly sweetens the matcha tea and balances the flavor without overpowering it.
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold – Gives the mascarpone filling its cloud-like texture once it’s whipped up.
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, cold – The creamy heart of tiramisu, adding richness and body to every layer.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right hint of sweetness to the creamy filling without making it too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
- Pinch of fine sea salt – A tiny touch that brings out all the sweet notes without standing out on its own.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to get creative? These little additions can take your matcha tiramisu cake to the next level:
- Fresh strawberries (sliced thin) – Layer them between the cream and ladyfingers for a strawberry matcha tiramisu twist.
- Coconut cream and dairy-free mascarpone alternative – Perfect for crafting a vegan matcha tiramisu without sacrificing flavor.
Pro Tip: For a more fusion-style flair, you can add a touch of lemon zest to the cream or dust a little cocoa powder alongside the matcha on top—especially if you’re leaning into a tiramisu matcha with Italian roots.
Now that everything’s on the counter and ready to go, it’s time to start layering!
How to Make Matcha Tiramisu Step-by-Step

Making this matcha tiramisu recipe feels more like a fun little kitchen project than anything complicated. It’s all about layering textures and letting the fridge work its quiet magic. Don’t worry—I’ll walk you through each step so nothing feels confusing or rushed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make your matcha tea.
In a wide, shallow bowl, sift in 2 tablespoons of matcha powder to remove any clumps. Slowly pour in the hot water while whisking steadily (a small whisk or bamboo chasen works well) until you see a smooth, green layer of foam. Stir in the honey or maple syrup, then let it cool slightly while you prep the cream. - Whip the cream until soft and fluffy.
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream on medium speed until soft peaks form. You want it airy but not stiff—think gentle folds that hold their shape. - Add mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Scoop in the mascarpone and sprinkle over the sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat again on low just until everything blends into a smooth, thick cream. Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as it’s silky. If you’d like a green tint, fold in 1 teaspoon of matcha here for that extra color. - Dip ladyfingers and layer the base.
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled matcha tea—about 1–2 seconds per piece. You want them soaked but still firm enough to hold shape. Arrange them snugly across the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish or trifle bowl. - Add a layer of cream.
Spoon half of the mascarpone cream over the dipped ladyfingers, then use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently smooth it into an even layer. - Repeat the layers.
Dip the second set of ladyfingers and lay them on top of the cream. Then finish with the remaining cream, smoothing it across the top like icing a soft, fluffy cake. - Cover and chill.
Cover the dish snugly and chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better to help the layers set and the flavors blend beautifully. - Dust with matcha before serving.
Right before you serve, use a small sieve to sift the remaining matcha powder evenly across the top. This not only makes it look beautiful but adds that final burst of tea flavor with every bite.
Troubleshooting Tip:
If your cream mixture feels too loose, try placing it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before spreading—it’ll thicken slightly and spread more easily.
And there you have it—layered, chilled, and finished with a flourish! Now that your tiramisu is resting in the fridge, let’s talk about some fun tips and variations you can try next time.
Chef Tips and Easy Variations for Matcha Tiramisu
Once you get the hang of making this beautiful matcha tiramisu recipe, it’s fun to make little tweaks depending on your mood, the season, or who’s coming over. Here are some tips and easy variations to help you make it truly your own:
- Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers. A quick dip (about 1–2 seconds) is all they need. You want them tender, not soggy.
- Use cold ingredients for the cream. Keep your mascarpone and heavy cream nice and cold to make whipping easier and give the filling a light, fluffy texture.
- Sift your matcha before using. This keeps your tea layer smooth and lump-free, giving you that gorgeous matcha tiramisu aesthetic you’re aiming for.
- Add a fruity twist. Slip thin slices of strawberries between the layers for a lovely strawberry matcha tiramisu version—perfect for spring and summer!
- Make it dairy-free. Swap the mascarpone for a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a cozy vegan matcha tiramisu.
- Boost the matcha flavor. If you really love that earthy matcha taste, add a sprinkle of extra matcha powder into the cream mixture, not just on top.
- Decorate with extras. Garnish the top with fresh berries, white chocolate curls, or even edible flowers for a truly eye-catching dessert.
Quick Tip: If you’re making this for a celebration, try layering it in individual cups or jars for a fun, party-ready presentation.
Now that you’ve got some ideas to play with, let’s dream a little about how to serve it!
Serving Suggestions for Your Matcha Tiramisu

When it comes to serving this dreamy matcha tiramisu, you can really have fun and match the mood of your day or event. Here are some ways I love to share it:
- Casual afternoon treat. Slice a chilled square and serve it alongside a cold matcha latte or a simple iced tea for a cozy, no-fuss afternoon break.
- Brunch table favorite. Bring a matcha strawberry tiramisu version to a brunch and watch it disappear faster than the bagels!
- Elegant dinner party finale. Dress it up by dusting a mix of matcha and a touch of powdered sugar across the top for a beautiful finish. Add a few berries on the side for color.
- Special occasion centerpiece. Assemble it in a clear glass trifle bowl to show off those gorgeous green and cream layers at birthdays, showers, or holiday gatherings.
- Mini desserts for a party. Build smaller versions in mason jars or dessert glasses. Easy to grab, easy to eat, and adorable on a table spread.
There’s just something about those soft green layers that makes people smile before they even take a bite!
Now, if you happen to have some leftovers (lucky you!), here’s exactly how to keep them fresh and just as tasty.
How to Store and Serve Leftover Matcha Tiramisu
Keeping your matcha tiramisu fresh is simple, and honestly, it’s one of those desserts that often tastes even better the next day after everything has had time to settle and blend together.
Here’s how to store it like a pro:
- Refrigerator storage. Seal the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and keep it chilled in the fridge where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens beautifully over time!
- Freezing for later. Slice into individual portions, wrap each piece snugly in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply let the slices defrost overnight in the fridge.
- No reheating needed. Since this is a chilled dessert, just let any frozen pieces thaw until cold but sliceable. Then it’s ready to serve straight from the fridge—no extra work needed.
Helpful Tip: If you’re freezing a whole tiramisu, layer a piece of parchment over the surface before wrapping to help keep the dusted matcha looking nice when you thaw it.
Isn’t it wonderful when a dessert is just as easy to keep as it is to make? Now that you know how to care for every last delicious bite, let’s pull together a few final highlights to make sure you’ve got all the best tips in one place!
More Delicious Desserts to Try
If you loved this Matcha Tiramisu, here are a few more sweet treats you might enjoy making next:
- Tiramisu Latte – A cozy, dessert-inspired drink that’s perfect for relaxing afternoons.
- Limoncello Tiramisu – A bright and cheerful twist on the classic favorite.
- Tiramisu Brownies – Fudgy brownies with a dreamy tiramisu layer on top.
- Pistachio Tiramisu – A nutty, flavorful variation that’s both rich and refreshing.
- Tiramisu Cups – Perfect for parties, these little cups make serving easy and fun!

Matcha Tiramisu You’ll Instantly Love
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (at least one large)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer
- Shallow bowl for dipping
- Silicone spatula
- 8×8-inch dish or similar container
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 24 ladyfingers
- 3 tablespoons matcha powder divided
- 1¼ cups hot water
- 2 –3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup heavy cream cold
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese cold
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh strawberries thinly sliced (for layering)
- Coconut cream and dairy-free mascarpone alternative for vegan version
Instructions
- Sift 2 tablespoons of matcha into a shallow bowl, add hot water, and whisk until smooth and foamy. Stir in sweetener and let cool slightly.
- In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and salt to the cream. Mix gently until just smooth. Fold in 1 teaspoon matcha if desired for a green tint.
- Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the matcha tea (1–2 seconds max) and line the bottom of your dish.
- Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the soaked ladyfingers.
- Repeat the dipping and layering with the remaining ladyfingers and cream.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, dust the top with the remaining 1 teaspoon matcha using a fine strainer.
Notes

Key Takeaways
- Matcha Tiramisu is a simple, no-bake dessert that feels special for any occasion.
- Soft ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone create the perfect balance with earthy matcha.
- It’s easy to customize with fruits like strawberries or a dairy-free twist.
- Best made ahead—chilling overnight brings out the best flavor and texture.
- Stores well for a few days and can even be frozen for later.
FAQs About Making Matcha Tiramisu
Can I use culinary-grade matcha instead of ceremonial?
Absolutely! Culinary-grade matcha works beautifully in this matcha tiramisu recipe. It has a bold flavor that holds up nicely against the creamy layers. Just make sure it’s fresh and finely ground so you get that lovely green color.
How do I keep the matcha layer smooth and even?
The trick is to sift your matcha first before whisking. Use a bamboo whisk or a small balloon whisk with hot (not boiling) water to help dissolve any tiny clumps. This gives you that beautiful, even layer you want.
Can I make Matcha Tiramisu without using eggs?
Yes, you can! This matcha tiramisu skips the traditional egg yolks and uses a whipped cream and mascarpone mixture instead. It’s a little simpler and just as delicious.
Is there a way to mix coffee into this recipe?
Sure thing! If you love a little coffee flavor, you can split the dipping liquid—half matcha tea, half strong brewed coffee. It creates a cozy, mocha-green twist on the classic tiramisu matcha style.
How do I keep the green color looking fresh?
Sift fresh matcha powder on top just before serving. After that, cover any leftovers tightly and store them in the fridge to help keep that bright, beautiful color as long as possible.
What’s the best way to make a bigger batch for a crowd?
It’s easy! Just double all the ingredients and layer everything into a 9×13-inch dish. Give it an extra hour or so in the fridge to set up nicely before serving.
Conclusion
There’s something so special about making a dessert that feels both a little fancy and completely comforting—and that’s exactly what this Matcha Tiramisu brings to the table. It’s a sweet little project you’ll want to come back to again and again, whether it’s for a cozy afternoon treat or a cheerful celebration with friends.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Your feedback means the world and helps others find inspiration too. Feel free to leave a review and share your kitchen story—it’s always a joy to see what you create!