Matcha Cinnamon Rolls

by

Introduction

Matcha Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of two beloved flavors, combining the earthy, slightly bitter notes of matcha with the warm, comforting sweetness of cinnamon rolls. The dough is soft and pillowy, offering the ideal texture to soak up the sweet, buttery filling infused with aromatic cinnamon and a hint of matcha. With each bite, you get a balance of comforting sweetness and a subtle depth of flavor from the matcha, creating a truly unique treat that’s both comforting and a little unexpected.

These rolls have become a staple in my kitchen for special mornings or when I need a little pick-me-up. I first made them for a brunch gathering, and they were an instant hit. The earthy aroma of the matcha paired with the cinnamon swirling through the dough fills the room with warmth and invites everyone to gather around. The glaze on top, a delicate drizzle of matcha and cream cheese frosting, adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite feel like a treat from a fancy bakery.

Matcha Cinnamon Rolls are great for cozy mornings, brunch, or as a special treat for any occasion. They’re indulgent yet not overwhelmingly sweet, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a more nuanced flavor. Serve them warm, and you’ll find they’re even better with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re a matcha lover or a cinnamon roll aficionado, these rolls will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Perfect for:

  • Breakfast or brunch
  • Special occasions like holidays and birthdays
  • Matcha enthusiasts
  • Comforting, indulgent treats
  • Homemade gifts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique Twist on a Classic – Matcha adds a fresh, earthy flavor that complements the sweet cinnamon filling.
  • Soft & Fluffy – The dough is tender and pillowy, perfect for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • Beautiful Color – The vibrant green swirl makes these rolls visually stunning.
  • No Special Equipment Needed – Easy to make with standard kitchen tools.
  • Customizable – Add extra fillings or toppings for a personal touch.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
  • Preparation Time: 40 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons matcha powder
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • ½ cup milk (warm)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup water (warm)

For the Filling

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon matcha powder (optional, for extra flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Matcha Powder – The key ingredient for the signature green swirl and earthy flavor.
  • Instant Yeast – Ensures the dough rises quickly and evenly.
  • Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and richness to the filling.
  • Powdered Sugar – Used to make the smooth, sweet glaze.
  • Butter – Ensures a rich, soft dough and filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate Yeast – In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle in the instant yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dough Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine flour, matcha powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough – Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the Dough Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

  1. Make the Filling – In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
  2. Roll Out the Dough – Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface, about ¼ inch thick.
  3. Spread the Butter & Add Filling – Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

Form the Rolls

  1. Roll & Cut – Starting from the longer edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
  2. Place in Baking Dish – Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
  3. Second Rise – Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.

Bake the Rolls

  1. Preheat & Bake – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  2. Cool Slightly – Let the rolls cool in the dish for 5-10 minutes before glazing.

Prepare the Glaze

  1. Make the Glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and matcha powder (if using). Adjust consistency with more milk if necessary.
  2. Glaze the Rolls – Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.

How to Serve

  • Classic Breakfast – Serve warm for a comforting breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
  • Dessert – These rolls make a perfect dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • With Fruit – Pair with fresh fruit or berries to balance the richness.
  • As a Gift – Package in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Additional Tips

  • Proper Rising – Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free spot for the best results.
  • Butter the Baking Dish – Buttering the dish will help the rolls brown evenly.
  • Freeze Before Baking – You can freeze the unbaked rolls after slicing and place them in the fridge overnight to bake the next morning.
  • Matcha Flavor – For a stronger matcha flavor, add an extra teaspoon of matcha powder to the dough.
  • Add Nuts or Chocolate – For a twist, try adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the filling.

Recipe Variations

  1. Coconut Matcha Cinnamon Rolls – Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
  2. Maple Cinnamon Rolls – Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
  3. Vegan Matcha Cinnamon Rolls – Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg substitute.
  4. Chocolate Matcha Rolls – Add chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, decadent variation.
  5. Nutty Matcha Rolls – Add chopped pecans or almonds to the filling for a nutty crunch.
  6. Cream Cheese Glaze – For a tangy finish, top the rolls with a cream cheese glaze instead of powdered sugar.
  7. Baked in Individual Muffin Cups – Portion the dough into muffin tins for single-serving cinnamon rolls.
  8. Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough and a dairy-free butter alternative.
  9. Matcha Lemon Rolls – Add lemon zest to the dough and filling for a bright citrusy contrast to the matcha.
  10. Strawberry Jam Swirl – Add a layer of strawberry jam to the dough for a fruity, jammy twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing Dough – Freeze the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Storing Baked Rolls – Keep baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their softness.

Special Equipment

  1. Mixing Bowls – Essential for combining ingredients.
  2. Rolling Pin – Helps roll the dough out evenly.
  3. 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Perfect for arranging the rolls.
  4. Whisk – For mixing the glaze smoothly.
  5. Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements.
  6. Dough Scraper – Helps portion the dough into equal rolls.
  7. Wire Rack – For cooling the rolls evenly.
  8. Pastry Brush – For evenly spreading butter onto the dough.
  9. Silicone Spatula – Great for mixing and spreading the filling.
  10. Plastic Wrap – To cover the dough during its rise and prevent drying out.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use regular green tea instead of matcha powder?
    Matcha powder is the best choice for flavor and color, but green tea can be used as a substitute if needed.
  2. Can I prepare the dough the night before?
    Yes, refrigerate the dough after kneading it and let it rise the next morning.
  3. How do I make sure the rolls don’t dry out?
    Bake the rolls until just golden, and cover them with a damp cloth immediately after baking to keep them soft.
  4. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the rolls the day before and refrigerate them overnight, then bake them in the morning.
  5. How can I adjust the sweetness of the rolls?
    Adjust the amount of sugar in the dough and filling to your desired level of sweetness.

Conclusion

Matcha Cinnamon Rolls are a vibrant and indulgent twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing a burst of earthy, green matcha flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced cinnamon filling. The soft, pillowy dough, infused with matcha, creates a delightful contrast against the warm, comforting cinnamon swirls, offering a rich, unique taste experience in every bite.

What truly makes this recipe shine is the perfect balance of flavors—subtle bitterness from the matcha, sweetness from the cinnamon and sugar, and a smooth glaze that ties everything together. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee or as a special treat for an afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to impress.

Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo, Matcha Cinnamon Rolls will add a touch of luxury to your baking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try them—be sure to share your delicious results with me on social media. Enjoy the sweet, matcha-infused bliss in every swirl!

Leave a Comment