Matcha crepe roll cake is a light, elegant dessert that combines thin, soft crepes with layers of creamy matcha filling, all rolled into a beautiful spiral. This Japanese-inspired treat is perfect for afternoon tea, celebrations, or as a unique twist on classic crepe cakes.
The combination of earthy matcha and smooth cream creates a balance of sweetness and umami, making this cake a favorite among matcha lovers and dessert enthusiasts. Unlike traditional cakes, this roll cake has no baking required, making it a great no-oven dessert option.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a matcha crepe roll cake from scratch, including tips for achieving perfectly thin crepes, a smooth matcha cream filling, and a flawless roll. If you enjoy matcha desserts, you might also love our Matcha Brownies Recipe for a rich, chocolatey take on matcha.
How to Make Matcha Crepe Roll Cake Step by Step
Making a matcha crepe roll cake involves preparing thin matcha crepes, whipping up a light matcha cream filling, and rolling everything together into a beautiful spiral. Follow these steps to achieve a delicate, flavorful cake with the perfect texture.
Ingredients for Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Forms the base of the crepe batter | Cake flour for a softer texture |
| Matcha powder | Adds earthy flavor and vibrant color | No substitution needed |
| Milk | Makes the crepe batter smooth and thin | Almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option |
| Eggs | Helps bind the crepes together | Flax eggs for a vegan alternative |
| Butter (melted) | Adds richness to the crepes | Coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative |
| Granulated sugar | Adds slight sweetness | Honey or maple syrup for a natural option |
| Whipping cream | Creates the smooth filling | Coconut cream for a dairy-free version |
| Powdered sugar | Sweetens the matcha cream | No substitution needed |
| Vanilla extract | Enhances the flavor | Almond extract for a unique twist |
Equipment Needed
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-stick pan | Ensures thin, even crepes without sticking |
| Mixing bowls | For combining ingredients |
| Hand mixer or whisk | Whips the cream to a light and airy consistency |
| Fine mesh sieve | Prevents matcha powder from clumping |
| Spatula | Helps flip and spread the crepes evenly |
| Parchment paper or plastic wrap | Aids in rolling the cake smoothly |
Preparing the Matcha Crepes and Making the Filling
Step 1: Making the Matcha Crepe Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon matcha powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs, 1 ½ cups milk, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
- Pass the batter through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate any lumps.
- Cover and let the batter rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
Step 2: Cooking the Matcha Crepes
- Warm a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and lightly coat it with butter.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter into the pan and swirl to spread it evenly into a thin circle.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift slightly, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Transfer the crepe to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter. Stack the crepes and let them cool completely.
Step 3: Making the Matcha Cream Filling
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Sift 1 teaspoon matcha powder over the cream and continue whipping until fully combined.
- Refrigerate the cream for at least 15 minutes before assembling the cake.
Assembling and Rolling the Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Once the matcha crepes and cream filling are ready, it’s time to assemble and roll the cake into a beautiful spiral. The key to success is ensuring the crepes are cooled completely before rolling to prevent cracks.
Step 1: Layering the Crepes with Cream
- Place a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a clean surface.
- Arrange 4-5 crepes slightly overlapping in a horizontal row, forming a long rectangle.
- Spread a thin, even layer of matcha cream filling across the entire surface.
Step 2: Rolling the Cake
- Starting from one end, gently roll the crepes into a log using the parchment paper to guide you.
- Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to set the shape.
- Once firm, unwrap the roll and trim the edges for a clean, polished look.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
- Lightly dust the cake with sifted matcha powder or powdered sugar.
- Slice into portions and serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.
For another matcha-inspired treat, check out our Matcha Brownies Recipe for a rich and indulgent dessert.
Best Ways to Serve and Store Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Matcha crepe roll cake is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to blend and the texture to firm up. Whether serving for a special occasion or making it ahead of time, proper storage will help maintain its delicate texture and vibrant color.
Best Ways to Serve Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
| Serving Style | How to Enhance the Flavor |
|---|---|
| With Fresh Berries | Adds natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to matcha. |
| Drizzled with Honey | Enhances the earthiness of matcha with a light sweetness. |
| Topped with Whipped Cream | Makes the cake even creamier and more indulgent. |
| Paired with Matcha Latte | Complements the flavor while creating a cozy tea-time experience. |
| Dusting of Powdered Sugar | Adds a simple but elegant finishing touch. |
How to Store Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
| Storage Method | How to Store | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Slice into portions, wrap individually, and store in a freezer-safe container. | Up to 1 month |
Tip: Before serving, let frozen crepe roll cake thaw in the fridge for 1-2 hours for the best texture.
If you love delicate, elegant desserts, don’t miss our Strawberry Puree Recipe—a great topping for matcha crepe roll cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Even though making a matcha crepe roll cake is straightforward, a few small mistakes can lead to torn crepes, weak flavor, or an uneven roll. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a perfectly smooth, flavorful, and beautiful cake.
Mistake #1: Not Sifting the Matcha Powder
- Matcha powder tends to clump, which can lead to uneven color and bitter pockets in the crepe batter and cream.
- Solution: Always sift matcha powder before mixing it into the batter or cream.
Mistake #2: Overmixing the Crepe Batter
- Overmixing activates the gluten, making the crepes chewy and less flexible for rolling.
- Solution: Mix the batter just until combined and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Mistake #3: Using Too Much Heat When Cooking Crepes
- High heat can cause the crepes to cook too fast, leading to a dry, stiff texture that cracks when rolled.
- Solution: Cook on medium-low heat for even cooking and soft crepes.
Mistake #4: Not Letting the Crepes Cool Before Assembling
- Warm crepes will cause the whipped cream to melt and lose its structure, making rolling difficult.
- Solution: Allow crepes to cool completely before assembling.
Mistake #5: Rolling Too Tightly or Too Loosely
- Rolling too tightly can cause the cake to split, while rolling too loosely may lead to gaps between layers.
- Solution: Roll the crepes gently but firmly, using parchment paper to guide the roll.
Different Variations of Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Matcha crepe roll cake is already a delicious and elegant dessert, but you can customize it with different flavors, fillings, and textures. Try these unique variations to make your crepe roll cake even more special.
1. Matcha & Red Bean Crepe Roll Cake
- Red bean paste, or anko, pairs beautifully with matcha’s earthy bitterness.
- How to make it: Spread a thin layer of sweet red bean paste over each crepe before adding the matcha cream.
2. Matcha Chocolate Crepe Roll Cake
- A chocolate twist adds richness to the delicate crepes.
- How to make it: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the rolled cake or add chocolate shavings inside the layers.
3. Matcha Strawberry Crepe Roll Cake
- Strawberries add a fresh, fruity contrast to the creamy filling.
- How to make it: Layer thinly sliced strawberries between the crepes and matcha cream.
4. Matcha Tiramisu Crepe Roll Cake
- A matcha take on classic tiramisu, combining mascarpone and matcha.
- How to make it: Add mascarpone cheese to the whipped cream and dust each crepe layer with matcha powder.
5. Vegan Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
- Dairy-free and egg-free but just as delicious!
- How to make it: Use coconut cream instead of whipped cream, and make the crepes with almond milk and flax eggs.
For another matcha dessert idea, check out our Matcha Brownies Recipe—a perfect blend of chocolate and green tea flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
What does matcha crepe cake taste like?
Matcha crepe cake has a delicate balance of flavors—lightly sweet with a subtle earthy bitterness from the matcha. The crepes are thin and soft, while the whipped cream filling makes the cake creamy and smooth. The slight umami notes from the matcha create a refreshing, less sugary dessert compared to traditional cakes.
Can I add matcha to a cake mix?
Yes! Matcha powder can be added to any cake mix to create a subtle green tea flavor. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of sifted matcha powder and mix it with the dry ingredients before adding liquids. For best results, pair matcha with vanilla or almond flavors to balance the bitterness.
What does matcha taste like in cake?
Matcha adds a mild bitterness and deep, earthy flavor to cakes. It pairs well with sweet and creamy ingredients like vanilla, white chocolate, or whipped cream. Depending on the amount used, matcha can provide a subtle hint or a bold green tea flavor.
Does matcha turn brown when baked?
Matcha can lose its vibrant green color and turn brown when exposed to high temperatures for a long time. To keep the color bright:
Use culinary-grade matcha, which is more heat-stable.
Bake at a lower temperature (325°F or 165°C).
Add matcha to creams, glazes, or no-bake desserts for the best color retention.
For a bright green, flavorful dessert, try our Strawberry Puree Recipe as a topping for matcha desserts.
Final Thoughts on Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Matcha crepe roll cake is a delicate, elegant, and delicious dessert that combines the rich, earthy flavor of matcha with the lightness of crepes and cream. Whether you’re making it for afternoon tea, a special celebration, or just to enjoy a refreshing dessert, this cake is sure to impress.
Why You Should Try Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
| Reason | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| No Baking Required | A perfect dessert for those without an oven. |
| Light and Fluffy Texture | The thin crepes and airy whipped cream make it soft and delicate. |
| Customizable Flavors | Pairs well with red bean, chocolate, fruit, or other fillings. |
| Rich in Antioxidants | Matcha provides natural health benefits and sustained energy. |
| Visually Stunning | The spiral layers make it an eye-catching dessert. |
Serving & Storage Recap
- Best served chilled, with whipped cream, berries, or a dusting of matcha powder.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Thaw frozen portions in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving.
For more matcha and dessert ideas, check out these delicious recipes:
- Matcha Brownies Recipe – A rich and indulgent matcha-chocolate treat.
- Strawberry Puree Recipe – A naturally sweet topping that pairs beautifully with matcha.
- Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust – A high-protein twist for a savory meal option.
Matcha Crepe Roll Cake
Equipment
- Non-stick pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Fine mesh sieve
- Spatula
- Parchment paper or plastic wrap
Ingredients
Matcha Crepe Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or cake flour for a softer texture
- 1 tbsp matcha powder sifted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1.5 cups milk or almond/oat milk for a dairy-free option
- 2 eggs or flax eggs for a vegan alternative
- 1 tbsp butter melted, or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or almond extract for a unique twist
Matcha Cream Filling
- 1 cup whipping cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp matcha powder sifted
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Cover and let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat, lightly grease with butter.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter into the pan and swirl to spread evenly into a thin circle.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Stack crepes and let them cool completely.
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Sift matcha powder over the cream and continue whipping until fully combined. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Lay a large sheet of parchment paper on a clean surface.
- Arrange 4-5 crepes slightly overlapping to form a long rectangle.
- Spread a thin, even layer of matcha cream filling over the crepes.
- Starting from one end, gently roll the crepes into a log using the parchment paper to guide you.
- Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once firm, unwrap and trim the edges for a clean look.
- Lightly dust with matcha powder or powdered sugar. Slice and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream.