The Story Behind Vegan Matcha Pound Cake

This vegan matcha pound cake combines the earthy, antioxidant-rich flavor of matcha green tea with the moist, fluffy texture of a traditional pound cake—all while being 100% plant-based. Matcha not only adds a vibrant green hue to the cake but also offers numerous health benefits, including boosting metabolism and providing a natural energy boost. Perfect for dessert or as a light snack, this cake is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pound cake.

Ingredients for Vegan Matcha Pound Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp matcha green tea powder (culinary grade)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (for moisture)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional for added flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
    • In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Set aside for 5 minutes to allow it to curdle and create a vegan buttermilk substitute.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the matcha throughout the cake.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • Add the sugar, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, applesauce, and optional lemon zest to the curdled plant-based milk. Stir until well combined.
  5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, gently folding them together until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Bake the Pound Cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Once fully cooled, slice and serve. Optional: dust the top with a little powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Matcha Pound Cake:

This vegan matcha pound cake is not only easy to make but also offers a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. The rich matcha flavor pairs perfectly with the light, moist cake, making it a delightful treat for matcha lovers and those looking for a healthy vegan dessert.