Step into a world of unique desserts with this delightful Matcha Jelly. This simple recipe brings the earthy, vibrant flavor of matcha green tea to life in a fun, jiggly texture. Imagine serving this alongside a drizzle of sweetened milk, creating a harmonious balance of bitter-sweet refreshment. Get ready to create a distinctive, cool treat that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Matcha Jelly
This Matcha Jelly recipe offers a wonderful blend of unique flavors and textures that you will adore.
- Enjoy a truly refreshing and light dessert, perfect for any time of year.
- The recipe uses only a few accessible ingredients, making preparation straightforward.
- It is an ideal treat for anyone who appreciates the distinctive taste of matcha.
- Easily adjust the sweetness level to perfectly match your personal preference.
- This recipe offers dairy-free options, catering to various dietary needs.
- Experience a delightfully unique texture that sets it apart from typical desserts.
Ingredients
Gather these high-quality ingredients to create your refreshing Matcha Jelly. Using the right components ensures the best flavor and texture.
For the Matcha Jelly:
- 4 tsp (7g) ceremonial grade matcha powder
- ¼ C (45g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp (3 g) agar agar powder
- Water
For the Sweetened Milk:
- ¾ C (180ml) condensed milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¾ C (180ml) oat milk or any unsweetened milk of choice
Optional for Serving:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
Notes & Substitutions
Agar-agar powder is a powerful plant-based gelling agent derived from seaweed, making it an excellent vegan alternative to gelatin. It creates a firmer, more brittle jelly compared to the softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture of gelatin. Agar-agar comes in various forms: powder (most potent), flakes, and strands. When substituting, use about 1 tablespoon of flakes or 1 strand for every 1 teaspoon of powder, but always consult package directions as potency varies.
If you prefer to use gelatin, substitute 1 packet (7g) of unflavored gelatin powder for every 2 cups of liquid. Dissolve the gelatin in 1/4 cup cold water, then add it to the hot agar-agar mixture and stir until fully dissolved.
For the best flavor, select ceremonial or premium grade matcha powder. Ceremonial grade matcha is a premium quality green tea powder made from the finest Japanese tea leaves, known for its vibrant color and smoother taste. Learn more about ceremonial grade matcha. These grades offer a brighter color and a smoother, less bitter taste, which is crucial for a delicious Matcha Jelly. Ensure your water for the matcha is hot but not boiling (around 80°C/175°F); boiling water can scorch the matcha, making it taste bitter.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes the Matcha Jelly preparation process smooth and enjoyable.
- Small saucepan
- Whisk (a bamboo whisk is optional but recommended for matcha)
- Fine-mesh sieve
- 2-cup liquid measuring cup
- Rectangular dish or mold (approximately 7.5×5 inches, or any dish that allows 1/2″ to 3/4″ deep liquid)
- Spatula or small knife
- Serving glasses
How To Make Matcha Jelly
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create your perfect Matcha Jelly. This process is designed for beginners, ensuring a successful outcome.
- Combine Agar-Agar: Add agar agar powder, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water into a small pot. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk constantly for 1 minute to fully dissolve the sugar and agar agar. Check the back of a metal spoon to ensure no granules remain, indicating the agar is activated.
- Cool Mixture: Transfer the hot agar-agar mixture into a 2-cup liquid measuring cup. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the matcha.
- Prepare Matcha: Sift the ceremonial matcha powder into a matcha bowl or a small mixing bowl to remove any lumps. Heat water to hot but not boiling (around 175°F / 80°C). Pour 1/3 cup (80ml) of this hot water into the bowl with the sifted matcha.
- Whisk Matcha: Whisk the matcha quickly in an “M” or “Z” pattern. Continue whisking until the matcha is frothy and completely smooth, with no visible clumps. This ensures a uniform matcha flavor throughout your Matcha Jelly.
- Combine & Adjust Volume: Add the freshly whisked matcha to the slightly cooled agar-agar and sugar mixture in the measuring cup. Stir everything well to combine. Top the liquid with enough cold water to bring the total volume up to the 2-cup (470ml) level. Stir again to ensure all components are evenly distributed.
- Pour into Mold: Carefully pour the complete matcha liquid mixture into your chosen rectangular dish or mold. Aim for a depth of 1/2″ to 3/4″ for the ideal jiggly texture.
- Skim Bubbles: Gently skim off any bubbles that form on the surface of the liquid. This step creates a smooth, appealing top surface for your finished Matcha Jelly.
- Chill Jelly: Transfer the mold to the refrigerator. Allow the Matcha Jelly to chill for at least 4 hours, or until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Prepare Sweetened Milk: While the jelly sets, prepare your sweetened milk. In a separate bowl, mix the condensed milk with your choice of unsweetened milk. Stir until well combined, then chill this mixture in the refrigerator.
- Cut Jelly: Once the matcha jelly is completely set, use a spatula or a small knife to gently run around the edges of the mold. This helps loosen the jelly. Then, score the jelly into desired cubes or shapes.
- Serve: Place the cut matcha jelly cubes into individual serving glasses. Pour the chilled sweetened milk mixture generously over the jelly cubes.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra indulgent treat, top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds a delightful creamy contrast to the earthy matcha.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving perfect Matcha Jelly is simple with a few key considerations. These tips help ensure a beautiful, flavorful dessert every time.
- Matcha Quality: Always opt for good quality ceremonial or premium grade matcha. Superior matcha provides a brighter color and a less bitter, more nuanced flavor to your jelly.
- Water Temperature: Pay close attention to the water temperature for whisking matcha. Using water that is hot, but not boiling (around 175°F/80°C), prevents the matcha from scorching and tasting overly bitter.
- Whisking Matcha: Thoroughly whisking the matcha is essential. This step breaks down any lumps, creating a smooth, frothy liquid that integrates seamlessly into the agar mixture.
- Agar vs. Gelatin: Understand the textural differences between agar-agar and gelatin. Agar-agar creates a firmer, slightly more brittle jelly, while gelatin yields a softer, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Skimming Bubbles: Don’t skip skimming bubbles from the surface of the liquid before chilling. This minor step ensures your finished jelly has a beautiful, smooth top layer, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Setting Time: Allow ample time for the jelly to set in the refrigerator. Rushing this process can result in a soft or unset jelly; at least 4 hours is recommended for optimal firmness.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This versatile Matcha Jelly can be enjoyed in many ways, stored easily, and adapted to your taste.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your homemade matcha jelly immediately after cutting for the best experience. Beyond the sweetened milk, consider adding fresh fruit like berries, chewy boba pearls, or a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra delight.
Storage: Store any leftover matcha jelly and the sweetened milk separately. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures both components maintain their freshness and quality.
Flavor Variations:
- Sweetener: Experiment with different sweeteners. Adjust the amount of granulated sugar in the jelly, or try natural alternatives like honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Milk: Change the sweetened milk component. Coconut milk provides a tropical twist, evaporated milk offers a rich creaminess, or simply use plain dairy milk for a classic taste.
- Toppings: Enhance your matcha jelly with additional toppings. Red bean paste, small mochi pieces, or toasted nuts add texture and traditional Japanese dessert elements.
Dietary Variations:
- Vegan: To ensure a fully vegan dessert, use plant-based condensed milk and unsweetened plant-based milk (like oat or almond). Agar-agar is naturally vegan.
- Less Sweet: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar added to the jelly. You can also opt for unsweetened condensed milk alternatives or simply use less condensed milk in your sweetened milk mixture.
Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional aspects of your homemade Matcha Jelly helps in making informed dietary choices. Please note that this information is an estimate.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 605 |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Carbohydrate | 104 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 101 g |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Sodium | 221 mg |
| Cholesterol | 54 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate calculated based on the provided ingredients and standard measurements, assuming 2-3 servings per recipe. Individual results may vary.
Caffeine content: Each serving of this matcha jelly contains approximately 70-110mg of caffeine, depending on the specific matcha powder used and the number of servings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is agar agar and how does it differ from gelatin?
Agar-agar is a plant-based gelling agent derived from seaweed. It creates a firmer, more brittle jelly that sets at room temperature, unlike gelatin which is animal-derived and produces a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture requiring refrigeration.
Can I use agar-agar flakes instead of powder?
Yes, you can use agar-agar flakes, but you will need to adjust the quantity. Generally, use about 1 tablespoon of agar-agar flakes for every 1 teaspoon of agar-agar powder, ensuring you dissolve them completely.
Can I substitute gelatin for agar agar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gelatin. Use one 7g packet of unflavored gelatin powder per 2 cups of liquid, dissolving it first in cold water before adding to the hot mixture.
What type of matcha powder is best for Matcha Jelly?
Ceremonial grade or a high-quality premium culinary grade matcha powder is best. These grades offer a vibrant color and a smoother, less bitter flavor, which improves the overall taste of your matcha jelly.
How much caffeine is in a serving of Matcha Jelly?
A serving of this matcha jelly typically contains between 70-110mg of caffeine. This amount can vary based on the specific type and potency of matcha powder used.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own homemade Matcha Jelly is a truly rewarding experience, offering a unique and refreshing dessert that impresses every time. This recipe makes it simple to achieve the perfect balance of earthy matcha flavor and a delightful jiggly texture. Embrace the joy of crafting this unique Japanese-inspired treat, perfect for cooling down on a warm day or serving as an elegant finish to any meal. We encourage you to try this recipe and discover the delicious possibilities. Share your beautiful creations with us, leave your comments, and explore our other accessible recipes for more culinary inspiration!
Jiggly & Refreshing Matcha Jelly Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pot, combine agar agar, sugar, and 1 cup of water; bring to a simmer, whisking constantly for 1 minute until fully dissolved. Transfer to a 2-cup measuring cup and let it cool slightly.
- Sift matcha into a bowl, then add 1/3 cup (80ml) hot (175f / 80c) water and whisk quickly until frothy and smooth. Incorporate the whisked matcha into the slightly cooled agar/sugar mixture.
- Add cold water to the mixture until the liquid reaches the 2-cup (470ml) level, then stir thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a mold, such as a 7½” x 5” rectangular dish, ensuring the liquid is 1/2″ to 3/4″ deep.
- Refrigerate the mold for at least 4 hours until the matcha jelly is fully set.
- While the jelly chills, combine condensed milk and oat milk, then chill this mixture in the fridge.
- Once the jelly is set, use a spatula or small knife to loosen the edges and score the jelly into desired cubes.
- Serve the matcha jelly cubes in glassware, pouring the chilled sweet milk over the top.
- Optionally, garnish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an enhanced dessert experience.
Notes
Diabetes Nutrition Specialist | Healthy Diet Advocate | Founder of GoldFoodie.
My passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey supporting my father through his battle with diabetes. Watching his daily struggles made me realize how powerful the right food choices can be in improving quality of life. That experience drove me to dedicate my career to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
