Matcha Cinnamon Rolls
From flour to flavor… I had to tap into my love for baking with this one. I wanted something cozy but different, so I made these matcha cinnamon rolls from scratch; soft, fluffy, with that slight earthy matcha flavor balanced by a classic cinnamon filling.
Ingredients
Matcha Dough:
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
* ¾ cup warm milk
* ¼ cup sugar
* 1 egg
* ¼ cup butter (softened)
* 1 tbsp matcha powder
* ½ tsp salt
Cinnamon Filling:
* ½ cup brown sugar
* 2 tbsp cinnamon
* ¼ cup butter (softened)
Matcha Icing:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1–2 tsp matcha powder
* 2–3 tbsp milk
* ½ tsp vanilla
Instructions
1. Warm milk + yeast + a little sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix flour, matcha powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add egg, butter, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth (about 8–10 minutes).
4. Cover and let rise for 1–1.5 hours (until doubled).
5. Roll dough into a rectangle.
6. Spread butter, then cinnamon + brown sugar mixture evenly.
7. Roll tightly and slice into rolls.
8. Place in baking dish and let rise again (30–45 minutes).
9. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
10. Mix icing and drizzle over warm rolls.
My Tips
* Don’t overdo the matcha — it can turn bitter fast
* Let the dough rise fully for that soft, fluffy texture
* Pour icing while rolls are still warm so it melts into them 🤌🏽
Time
* Prep time: ~20 minutes
* Rise time: ~2 hours
* Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Taste Review (Real Talk)
I LOVE how these turned out. The matcha gives a subtle earthy vibe that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon filling. Not overly sweet at all — which I actually prefer. Next time, I might add a little cream cheese to the icing for extra richness.
#BakingFromScratch #lemon8challenge #lemon8food #matcha #matchacinnamonrolls
Baking matcha cinnamon rolls at home is a wonderful way to combine the calming, earthy notes of matcha with the warm sweetness of cinnamon. My personal experience with this recipe has shown that the key to achieving the perfect texture lies in patience during the rising stages—allowing the dough to double in size ensures the rolls become irresistibly soft and fluffy. One thing I learned along the way is to be cautious with the matcha powder quantity; too much can introduce a bitter taste, so sticking to about one tablespoon for the dough and controlled amounts in the icing works best. I also enjoyed experimenting with various toppings: drizzling the matcha icing while the rolls are still warm creates a delightful melt effect that seeps into the rolls, enhancing their flavor and tenderness. For added richness, cream cheese icing is a fantastic alternative that beautifully complements the matcha and cinnamon combination—something I plan to try next time. In terms of texture and taste, the blend of matcha with cinnamon strikes a harmonious balance. The relatively understated sweetness is perfect for those who prefer a less sugary treat without sacrificing flavor. The method outlined, including warm milk activation of yeast and thorough kneading, ensures a consistent and enjoyable baking outcome. For bakers aiming to personalize this recipe, consider incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon filling for added crunch, or sprinkling sesame seeds on top to enhance the visual appeal and nutritional value. Additionally, using organic matcha powder guarantees the best flavor and antioxidant benefits. This recipe has become a cozy go-to treat for weekend baking sessions, ideal for sharing with family and friends over tea or coffee. It's an excellent way to elevate traditional cinnamon rolls into a unique, flavorful experience that also introduces the benefits of matcha into your diet. Give it a try—you might find it becoming a staple in your baking repertoire too!
That looks so goooood!!! Airdrop me some 😭😭