If you are a fan of vibrant, flavorful treats that combine the earthiness of matcha with the sweet brightness of strawberries, you are going to adore this Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe. These bars delight with a crisp, buttery crust, a luscious matcha layer infused with creamy sweetness, and a heavenly strawberry cream topping that’s both light and luscious. Perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your friends or just treat yourself, this no-bake dessert is as stunning to look at as it is satisfying to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the crumbly, buttery crust to the creamy matcha middle and the fresh fruit-inspired strawberry topping, these ingredients combine to give you a harmonious and irresistible dessert.
- Graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits: The base of the crust, providing a crunchy, slightly sweet foundation that contrasts beautifully with the smooth layers above.
- Sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to enhance the flavor without overpowering the matcha and strawberry layers.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together and adds richness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Used in both the matcha and strawberry layers for creaminess and to provide a tangy balance to the sweet ingredients.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, luscious texture in the matcha layer.
- Matcha powder (culinary grade): The star ingredient that delivers that signature green tea flavor and vibrant color.
- Vanilla extract: Builds depth in both creamy layers with its warm, fragrant notes.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to create lightness and airy texture for the strawberry cream topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream gently without graininess.
- Strawberry puree: Made from fresh or frozen strawberries, providing fresh, fruity brightness.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh strawberries, matcha powder for dusting, or white chocolate drizzle to elevate presentation.
How to Make Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. Mix your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until everything is fully combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom. This step forms your crunchy, buttery base—a simple yet essential layer. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you focus on the creamy layers.
Step 2: Create the Matcha Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until all ingredients blend into a silky, vibrant green mixture. Spread this luscious matcha layer evenly over your chilled crust, then return the pan to the fridge so the layer can set nicely.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Cream Layer
Whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form—that light, fluffy texture is key. Separately, blend cream cheese with the strawberry puree until smooth and vibrant. Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture, taking care to maintain that airy consistency. Then, spread this strawberry cream layer evenly over the matcha layer. Smooth the top for a flawless finish.
Step 4: Chill and Cut
Allow the bars to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This step is vital—it lets everything set perfectly so your bars hold their shape and slice beautifully. When ready, cut into 9 generous bars.
How to Serve Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few garnishes transforms these bars from everyday treats to elegant desserts. Fresh strawberry slices offer a luscious burst of color and flavor that harmonizes with the strawberry cream layer. A light dusting of matcha powder adds a delicate earthiness and visual pop. For extra indulgence, a drizzle of melted white chocolate across the bars makes for a stunning and sweet finishing touch.
Side Dishes
These bars shine as a standalone dessert but pair beautifully with a few accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream adds cool creaminess that complements the bars’ texture. For a tea-time twist, serve alongside a warm cup of green tea or jasmine tea, bringing out the matcha flavors even more. Fresh fruit salad or a citrusy sorbet can also refresh the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun when you’re sharing these Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe treats. Serve them on a rustic wooden board with scattered edible flowers and fresh strawberries for a picnic-ready vibe. Or, stack the bars on a pretty plate and sprinkle with white chocolate curls and finely chopped pistachios for a sophisticated look. Individual glass jars layered with these bars and whipped cream make a unique and charming presentation for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once prepared, keep the matcha strawberry cream bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making them perfect for meal prepping or planning ahead for gatherings.
Freezing
Want to prepare these bars well in advance? Freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Since these bars are no-bake, reheating isn’t necessary—in fact, serving them chilled preserves their creamy layers and fresh flavors. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust instead of graham crackers?
Absolutely! Digestive biscuits are a great alternative, or you could try crushed shortbread cookies for a richer base. Just make sure the crumbs are finely crushed and mix well with melted butter to maintain the right texture.
Is culinary grade matcha necessary for this recipe?
Yes, culinary grade matcha is best because it offers a robust flavor and vibrant color that’s essential in the matcha layer. Using lower quality matcha might result in a dull taste or color that doesn’t pop as beautifully.
Can I use fresh strawberries for the puree, or do frozen work just as well?
Both fresh and frozen strawberries work wonderfully. Just thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to avoid a watery cream layer.
Are these bars suitable for vegetarians?
They sure are! All the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, making these bars a crowd-pleasing option for those who avoid meat.
How can I make these bars vegan?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, use coconut condensed milk, and swap heavy whipping cream for full-fat coconut cream whipped to soft peaks. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly but will still be delightful.
Final Thoughts
This Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe has become an absolute favorite for anyone who loves a dessert that’s as colorful as it is delicious. The lovely balance between earthy matcha and sweet strawberry cream is pure magic, all resting on a buttery crust that delivers perfect crunch in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just because, these bars will surely brighten your day and tantalize your taste buds. Go ahead and give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a vibrant matcha-flavored cream cheese layer, and a luscious strawberry cream topping. With a combination of creamy textures and fresh fruity notes, they offer a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the matcha layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder (culinary grade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry cream layer:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry puree (made from fresh or frozen strawberries)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh strawberries
- Matcha powder for dusting
- White chocolate drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Place it in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the matcha layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, matcha powder, and vanilla extract, then continue beating until all ingredients are fully blended into a smooth matcha cream. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust and return the pan to the fridge.
- Prepare the strawberry cream layer: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and strawberry puree together until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture until combined, creating a light and creamy strawberry topping. Spread this layer over the set matcha layer and smooth the surface.
- Chill and serve: Place the pan back in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bars to fully set. Once set, slice into 9 bars and garnish with fresh strawberries, a dusting of matcha powder, or a drizzle of white chocolate as desired before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality culinary grade matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
- These bars are no-bake, making them perfect for warm weather or when you want a quick dessert.
- For a firmer texture and longer storage, bars can be frozen and thawed slightly before serving.
- If fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can be used to make the puree; just thaw and blend.
