Have you ever imagined eating a cake made with layers so thin and delicate that they practically melt in your mouth? Now, what if those layers were filled with the gentle flavor of green tea and soft, lightly sweetened whipped cream? That’s the magic of Matcha Mille Crepe Cake – a dessert that looks elegant and tastes just as heavenly.
Try another popular Japanese dessert: Japanese Strawberry Shortcake.
Table of Contents
What Makes Matcha Crepe Cake Special?
This Matcha Crepe Cake isn’t your everyday dessert. It’s made from paper-thin crepes layered one by one with fresh whipped cream, and then chilled to set into a smooth, sliceable cake. The slightly bitter matcha balances beautifully with the creamy layers. It’s not too sweet, which makes it a favorite for those who love subtle, refined desserts.
Time-wise, this Matcha Crepe Cake requires some patience. You’ll need about 1 hour for prep and resting, and 2 hours of chilling. It’s a medium-level recipe that anyone can make with a little focus. If you’re looking to try your hand at a Japanese-inspired dessert, this Matcha Crepe Cake is a fantastic place to start.
Matcha Mille Crepe Cake @JapanDishes
Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWhat is Matcha Mille Crepe Cake?
Matcha Mille Crepe Cake is a Japanese-style layered dessert. “Mille” means a thousand in French, and “crepe” means thin pancake. Of course, there aren’t literally a thousand layers, but the name hints at the many crepes stacked to form this cake. Typically, it has between 15 to 20 layers.
The highlight of this Matcha Crepe Cake is its delicate texture and curved, smooth edges. Each crepe is flavored with matcha powder, giving the cake a soft green color and earthy taste. When chilled and sliced, it reveals beautiful thin layers, making it a treat for both the eyes and taste buds. The Matcha Crepe Cake is also a stunning dessert for any celebration or afternoon tea.
But First, What Is Matcha?
Matcha is finely ground green tea powder made from specially grown tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, matcha goes through a long process. The leaves are shade-grown, handpicked, steamed, and then ground into a fine powder using stone mills. You can’t make matcha by grinding regular green tea leaves at home. The process and quality are what make matcha truly unique. That uniqueness is what gives Matcha Crepe Cake its standout flavor.
Essential Ingredients and Their Importance
To make a perfect Matcha Crepe Cake, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Crepes:
- 1¾ cups whole milk (use whole for easy-to-handle crepes)
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1½ tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup cake flour (important for soft, tender texture)
- 2 tbsp matcha powder (choose good quality for best flavor)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Neutral oil (for cooking crepes)
For Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp sugar
For Serving:
- 2 tsp matcha powder (for dusting)
- Extra whipped cream (optional)
Substitutions: You can use reduced-fat milk if you want thinner crepes and are comfortable handling them. Avoid using all-purpose flour or bread flour; they result in a chewy texture, which won’t suit this Matcha Crepe Cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crepe Batter:
- Warm the milk and sugar in a pan.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking.
- Add melted butter to the mixture.
- Sift cake flour, matcha powder, and baking powder together.
- Add half the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Whisk gently. Add the rest and mix until no lumps remain.
- Strain the batter through a fine sieve.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This is an important step to achieve a smooth Matcha Crepe Cake.
2. Cook the Crepes:
- Heat a nonstick 10-inch pan on low heat.
- Lightly brush oil, then raise the heat to medium-low.
- Pour about ¼ cup batter and swirl to spread thinly.
- Cook for 2 minutes until edges crisp. Flip carefully.
- Cook the other side for 30 seconds.
- Set aside on parchment paper.
- Repeat until all batter is used. Make one large crepe with a 12-inch pan for the top layer.
Hana’s Recipe Tips:
- Always stir the batter before making each crepe.
- Don’t skip the resting time. It helps the gluten relax and ensures softer crepes.
- If the batter becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to thin it. This helps your Matcha Crepe Cake stay light and soft.
Make the Whipped Cream
- Place a bowl over an ice bath.
- Pour in heavy cream and whip on low speed.
- When bubbles form, add sugar.
- Increase speed and whip until medium peaks form (firm but slightly curled tips). This whipped cream is what binds your Matcha Crepe Cake together.
Assembling the Matcha Crepe Cake
- Lay down parchment strips in a cross pattern on a cake stand.
- Place the large crepe in the center. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream.
- Add another crepe and cream. Repeat the layering process.
- End with the final crepe on top.
- Line a curved dish with plastic wrap. Place the cake inside and wrap tightly.
- Chill for at least 2 hours.
Serving
- Unwrap and flip the Matcha Crepe Cake onto a serving plate.
- Dust with matcha powder.
- Slice while chilled, then let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Each slice of Matcha Crepe Cake will show its beautiful layers and light texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Wrap the Matcha Crepe Cake in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can make the crepes a day ahead and assemble the cake the next day.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture of whipped cream may change. A fresh Matcha Crepe Cake is always best.
Matcha Mille Crepe Cake@japanDishes
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Mille Crepe: Replace matcha with cocoa powder for a chocolate crepe cake.
- Fruity Layers: Add sliced strawberries or bananas between layers for a fruity Matcha Crepe Cake twist.
- Coffee Twist: Use instant espresso powder instead of matcha.
Conclusion
Making Matcha Mille Crepe Cake at home is a fun and rewarding experience. While it requires a bit of time and patience, the final result is worth every step. With its light texture, creamy filling, and unique matcha flavor, this Matcha Crepe Cake is sure to impress anyone who tries it. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try. You might just fall in love with layering. And once you do, you’ll be proud to serve a homemade Matcha Crepe Cake that looks and tastes just like one from a specialty bakery.
Matcha Mille Crepe Cake 抜茶ミルクレープ
Course: Dessert, cakeCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy8
servings1
hour40
minutes270
kcalMatcha Mille Crepe Cake is a delicate and elegant dessert made of multiple thin matcha-flavored crepes layered with sweet whipped cream. It’s lightly sweet, soft in texture, and rich in green tea flavor a perfect treat for tea time or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Crepes:
1¾ cups whole milk (plus 1–2 Tbsp to thin batter, if needed)
3 tablespoons sugar
3 large eggs
1½ tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup cake flour
2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
Neutral oil (for greasing the pan)
- For the Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons sugar
- For Serving:
2 teaspoons matcha powder (for dusting)
Extra whipped cream (optional)
Directions
- Warm the Milk:
Heat milk and sugar in a small saucepan just until warm. Do not boil. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and slowly whisk in the warm milk. Add melted butter and mix well. - Sift Dry Ingredients:
Sift cake flour, matcha powder, and baking powder together. Gradually whisk into the wet ingredients in two parts, stirring gently to avoid lumps. - Strain and Rest Batter:
Pour the batter through a fine sieve to ensure smoothness. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. This resting step helps relax the gluten. - Cook the Crepes:
Use a nonstick pan over medium-low heat. Lightly oil the pan, pour a small amount of batter, and swirl to form a thin circle. Cook each crepe for 2 minutes on the first side and 30 seconds on the other. Set aside to cool on parchment paper. Repeat until all batter is used. - Make the Whipped Cream:
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream and sugar until medium-stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to use. - Assemble the Cake:
Place one crepe on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over it, then add another crepe. Continue layering until all crepes are used. Finish with the neatest crepe on top. - Chill the Cake:
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. - Serve:
Unwrap and dust the top with matcha powder. Slice while cold, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Always stir your crepe batter before pouring each crepe.
Use only cake flour to ensure a light, soft texture.
The matcha flavor intensifies as the cake chills overnight.
For a more rounded shape, use a shallow bowl and press the layered cake gently before wrapping.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is matcha healthy? Yes, matcha is rich in antioxidants and may help with energy and focus. It’s one of the reasons Matcha Crepe Cake is both delicious and a bit beneficial.
2. Can I use store-bought crepes? You can, but the matcha flavor won’t be in the crepes themselves. It’s best to make them from scratch for an authentic Matcha Crepe Cake.
3. Can I make this without a special pan? Yes, any nonstick pan will work. Just make sure it heats evenly so each layer in your Matcha Crepe Cake is perfect.
4. What type of matcha should I use? Use culinary-grade matcha for baking. It’s affordable and still offers great flavor and color, perfect for Matcha Crepe Cake.
5. Why did my crepes turn out rubbery? Overmixing the batter or using the wrong flour (like bread or all-purpose) can make crepes rubbery. Stick to cake flour and don’t overmix to get soft layers in your Matcha Crepe Cake.
Now that you know all the steps, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make a Matcha Mille Crepe Cake at home. Enjoy the process and the delicious results. Your very own Matcha Crepe Cake masterpiece is just a few layers away.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, take a moment to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Tokyo. Discover peaceful and fun activities at Sumida Park a perfect spot to unwind before or after indulging in a sweet treat like Matcha Crepe Cake
