Is Starbucks Matcha really matcha?

Not exactly. While Starbucks matcha does contain real green tea powder, it’s pre-mixed with sugar. This makes it much sweeter and less potent than pure, high-quality matcha. If you’re looking for an authentic matcha experience, go for ceremonial-grade matcha or a good culinary-grade matcha for baking.

Why is matcha so expensive?

Matcha is pricey because of how it’s grown and processed. The best matcha comes from shade-grown tea leaves, which are hand-picked, carefully dried, and stone-ground into a fine powder. High-quality matcha is vibrant green, smooth, and packed with antioxidants—so you’re paying for both flavor and health benefits!

Does baking matcha remove the caffeine?

Baking does reduce some of matcha’s caffeine content, but it doesn’t eliminate it entirely. Since matcha is mixed into the dough instead of brewed like tea, a slice of Matcha Pan will still give you a gentle energy boost, just milder than drinking a cup of matcha.

Why do Japanese like matcha so much?

Matcha has deep cultural roots in Japan, dating back to the traditional tea ceremony. Beyond its history, Japanese people love matcha for its unique flavor, calming effect, and health benefits. It’s not just for tea—matcha is also used in desserts, snacks, and even savory dishes!

Is matcha OK to drink every day?

Yes! Matcha is rich in antioxidants and provides a steady energy boost without the jitters of coffee. Just be mindful of how much you drink—since it contains caffeine, too much can lead to restlessness or upset stomachs in some people.

Do Japanese put sugar in matcha?

Traditional Japanese matcha is served without sugar, especially in tea ceremonies. However, matcha used in lattes, desserts, or baked goods (like Matcha Pan ) is often sweetened to balance its natural bitterness.

Quick and easy matcha pan! Ready in 30 minutes Must-try

Name: Matcha Pan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 3 cups bread flour; 2 tbsp matcha powder; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup warm milk; 1 egg; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Description

Soft, fluffy bread infused with earthy matcha flavor, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups bread flour
2 tbsp matcha powder
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk
1 egg
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, matcha powder, sugar, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter to the dry ingredients.
Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf or rolls, and place it in a baking pan.
Cover and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool before slicing and serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality culinary-grade matcha.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 180
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: matcha, bread, Japanese, baking, green tea