Description
These Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars feature a buttery matcha shortbread base and a creamy strawberry layer set with agar for a vegetarian-friendly treat. They offer an elegant, spring-perfect dessert.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon culinary-grade matcha powder
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons strawberry jam or purée
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon agar powder (or 1½ teaspoons agar flakes)
- ¼ cup cold water
- Optional: drop of pink food coloring for color
- Matcha powder for dusting
- Sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and mix.
- Whisk flour, matcha, and salt in a separate bowl. Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Prick the surface with a fork.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and cool completely.
- Whisk cream, strawberry jam, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan. Dissolve agar powder in cold water in a separate bowl; let it sit 5 minutes.
- Bring the cream mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Add the agar mixture and stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until fully dissolved and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 3–4 minutes.
- Slowly pour the strawberry cream over the cool shortbread base. Tilt the pan gently to spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Lift the bars from the pan and cut into 16 squares. Dust lightly with matcha powder and top with sliced strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Agar sets more firmly than gelatin, allowing for clean slicing.
- Cool the cream mixture slightly before pouring to maintain distinct layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Chilling
- Cuisine: Fusion