Name: Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: ½ lb cream cheese (at room temperature); ½ cup sugar; 2 large eggs (50 g each without shell, at room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature); 1 Tbsp matcha powder (ceremonial or culinary grade) or, for classic version, substitute with 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 4 tsp cake flour (or all-purpose flour; use rice flour for gluten-free); 2 tsp cornstarch (or use all-purpose flour); 220 ml heavy (whipping) cream (1 cup minus 4 tsp; at room temperature); ⅛ tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you love the idea of a cheesecake with a twist, the Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This beautiful dessert pairs the subtle, earthy flavor of matcha green tea with a luxuriously creamy, velvety texture and a signature burnt top that adds delightful depth and complexity. It’s rich yet light, with a decadent wobble in the center that will have you swooning at first bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, this cheesecake is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a smooth, bright green mixture that has a slightly thick texture. A white spatula with a wooden handle is resting inside the bowl, partly covered with the green mixture. Above the bowl, a woman's hand holds a small metal sieve with a black handle, sifting fine, vivid green powder into the bowl. The background is light, focusing attention on the vibrant green colors and glass bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe truly starts with the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the cream cheese that provides creaminess, to the matcha powder that infuses that vibrant green color and flavor, and the flour and cornstarch that give it the perfect structure.

Cream cheese (½ lb): Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth and creamy base without lumps.
Sugar (½ cup): Provides just the right touch of sweetness to balance the matcha’s slight bitterness.
Eggs (2 large eggs and 1 yolk): At room temperature to ensure even mixing and add richness.
Matcha powder (1 tbsp): Choose ceremonial or culinary grade for vibrant flavor and color; you can substitute lemon juice for a classic burnt cheesecake.
Cake flour (4 tsp) and cornstarch (2 tsp): These help stabilize the cheesecake’s tender texture without weighing it down.
Heavy cream (220 ml): At room temperature for smooth incorporation, gives a luscious mouthfeel.
Diamond Crystal kosher salt (⅛ tsp): Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Make Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

This step is all about getting things ready for the perfect bake. Preheat your oven to the right temperature (450ºF for convection or 475ºF for conventional) so the cheesecake develops that iconic burnt top. Meanwhile, line a 6-inch cake pan carefully with parchment paper folded crisscross-style to fit snugly—this trick ensures the cheesecake releases beautifully after baking.

Step 2: Blend the Cream Cheese and Sugar

Start with softened cream cheese to create a luxuriously smooth base. Add sugar and rub them together inside the bowl using a spatula. This technique dissolves the sugar gradually and produces a fluffy, lump-free mixture that is crucial for your silky cheesecake texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs Gradually

Whisk your eggs and yolk, then add them slowly in thirds to the cream cheese mixture. The key here is patience—adding eggs bit by bit ensures a smooth batter without curdling or lumps. This gentle blending will make the batter dreamily homogeneous.

Step 4: Mix in the Matcha Paste

To avoid clumping, sift the matcha powder into a small portion of the batter to form a paste first. Then, blend this vivid green matcha paste back into the main batter until smooth. This careful process unlocks the full flavor and beautiful hue that defines this Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe.

Step 5: Add Flour, Cornstarch, Cream, and Salt

Sift the dry ingredients into the mixture while stirring gently to prevent lumps. Gradually pour in the room temperature heavy cream to loosen the batter, ending with a pinch of salt to brighten the flavors. You’re aiming for a silky, smooth texture that will bake into a velvety cheesecake.

Step 6: Pour, Tap, and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan all at once to avoid air pockets, then firmly tap the pan a few times on the counter to release any trapped bubbles. Bake on a baking sheet at the designated temperature until the top is a wonderfully dark golden brown and the center still wiggles slightly—around 30 minutes. This burnt exterior gives a caramelized flavor that perfectly balances the matcha’s grassy notes.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool on a wire rack for 2 to 3 hours so it sets gently. For a firmer texture, cover with a tea towel and chill in the refrigerator for an additional 4 hours. This final chill enhances the richness and perfect wobble that makes this Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe so irresistible.

How to Serve Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a round green cake with a dark brown, slightly burnt top layer. One slice has been taken out and is placed next to the cake, showing two thick layers: a smooth, pale green inside and a thin darker brown crust outside. The cake sits on crumpled brown parchment paper, with some dark crumbs scattered around. A silver fork with a black handle lies near the slice, on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes let the cheesecake shine. Sprinkle a light dusting of matcha powder on top to enhance its color or add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for softness. Edible flowers or thinly sliced fresh strawberries add elegance and a fresh contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair this cheesecake with a cup of hot green tea or a refreshing yuzu citrus drink. These beverages complement the cheesecake’s earthy and creamy characteristics and provide a lovely palate cleanse between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve slices on minimalist white plates with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or a berry coulis for contrast. Present smaller portions in clear glasses layered with whipped cream, matcha crumbles, and cheesecake for a stunning parfait effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Burnt Matcha Cheesecake wrapped securely with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness without rushing.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake, well wrapped in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it slowly overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its delicate texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving—this helps revive its softness and intensifies the matcha aroma.

FAQs

Can I use regular green tea powder instead of matcha?

Regular green tea powder is much coarser and less vibrant in flavor and color than matcha, so it’s best to stick with ceremonial or culinary grade matcha for this recipe to achieve the authentic taste and stunning green color.

Why does the cheesecake need to have a burnt top?

The burnt top caramelizes the sugars and cream, creating that signature deep amber color and complex flavor contrast to the soft, creamy interior. It’s what makes this cheesecake stand out from traditional versions.

Can I make this cheesecake without an oven with a fan?

Yes! If you don’t have a convection oven, simply increase the baking temperature slightly and use the upper rack to encourage browning. Just watch closely as every oven behaves differently.

How important is it to use room temperature ingredients?

Very important. Room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and cream combine smoothly to create a lump-free batter, essential for that perfectly silky and creamy Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe texture.

Is this cheesecake gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses cake flour, which contains gluten. However, to make it gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with rice flour as indicated. This swap still yields a tender cheesecake with that signature burnt finish.

Final Thoughts

Making the Burnt Matcha Cheesecake Recipe is one of those joyful kitchen adventures that rewards you with a stunning dessert full of flavor, texture, and personality. Its rich, creamy center combined with the deeply caramelized top makes every bite a celebration. I encourage you to dive in, share it with loved ones, and experience firsthand why this cheesecake continues to win hearts and become a favorite for any occasion.