Matcha Raspberry Rolls Recipe

If you have a soft spot for vibrant flavors and eye-catching treats, these Matcha Raspberry Rolls are nothing short of a revelation. Imagine the gentle earthiness of matcha powder dancing with sweet, tangy raspberry jam and fresh raspberries, all wrapped inside a tender, buttery dough. Each bite bursts with color and nuanced taste, making these rolls a stunning centerpiece for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning, this recipe brings an inviting twist to classic sweet rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of making Matcha Raspberry Rolls lies in the simplicity and accessibility of its ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the earthy matcha powder that gives the dough its signature hue to the luscious raspberries infusing every bite with fresh sweetness, these pantry staples come together effortlessly.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness to the dough for a soft roll.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the tart filling without overpowering it.
• 2 tsp matcha powder: Offers a vibrant green color and subtle grassy flavor that sets these rolls apart.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and tenderness.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough and contributes to the soft crumb.
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam: The jammy sweetness that perfectly complements the matcha’s earthiness.
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries: Adds real fruit bursts and texture.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Sweetens the raspberry filling for balanced flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the silky glaze that crowns the rolls with a sweet finish.
• 2-3 tbsp milk: Creates the perfect consistency for the glaze.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the glaze.

How to Make Matcha Raspberry Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by awakening the yeast in warm milk, letting it froth just enough to signal it’s ready to work its magic. Mixing melted butter, sugar, egg, and matcha powder into the yeast mixture creates a fragrant, green-hued base. Gradually fold in the flour and salt until you have a soft dough that’s slightly sticky and full of promise.

Step 2: Knead and Let the Dough Rise

Knead the dough on a light dusting of flour until it becomes smooth and elastic—this is where the bread’s wonderful texture begins. Once kneaded, tuck it into a greased bowl, cover it gently, and allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This patient step is crucial for those light, fluffy rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

While the dough takes its nap, mix raspberry jam with fresh or frozen raspberries and a sprinkle of sugar. This combo is simple yet bursting with bright, fruity notes. The little seeds from the raspberries add a delightful texture contrast to the spread.

Step 4: Roll Out and Spread the Filling

Roll the dough into a large rectangle—about 12 by 16 inches is perfect—to create a generous canvas for your raspberry mixture. Spread the filling in an even layer to ensure every bite is balanced between dough and fruit filling.

Step 5: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Now for the fun part: roll your dough tightly from one long side to the other, creating a vibrant log full of green and red swirls. Slice the log evenly into 12 rolls and arrange them snugly in a greased baking dish. Let them relax and rise once more to develop a pillowy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the rolls into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake until golden brown crowns appear, around 20 to 25 minutes. The aroma in your kitchen will be an irresistible preview of the deliciousness to come.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze that you’ll drizzle generously over the warm rolls. This final touch adds just the right amount of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.

How to Serve Matcha Raspberry Rolls

Garnishes

Topping your Matcha Raspberry Rolls with fresh raspberries or a light dusting of extra matcha powder brings elegance and enhances the flavors. A few edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted coconut also create eye-catching contrast and texture for gatherings.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of green tea or fruity herbal tea, complementing the matcha’s unique taste. A light cream cheese spread or a dollop of whipped mascarpone can provide a creamy balance to the fruity tang of the raspberry filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on your serving plate to showcase the swirl of colors, or serve individually wrapped with a small ribbon for a charming gift. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a citrusy sorbet for a fresh, seasonal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Matcha Raspberry Rolls keep beautifully at room temperature when stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This preserves their softness and flavor without drying out the dough or dulling the glaze.

Freezing

You can freeze baked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen rolls stay fresh for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

Warm your rolls gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them moist. This refreshes their softness and reawakens the matcha and raspberry flavors for an irresistible treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for the dough?

While all-purpose flour is ideal for its balance of gluten and softness, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture or a blend including whole wheat. Keep in mind that using different flours may change the dough consistency and rise time slightly.

Is matcha powder necessary, or can I substitute it?

Matcha is key to achieving that distinct green color and subtle, earthy flavor unique to these rolls. Substituting it with green tea powder or spinach powder will alter both the taste and appearance, so it’s best to stick with culinary-quality matcha for the authentic experience.

Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook can make kneading easier and faster. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, then proceed with the rising steps as instructed.

What if I don’t have fresh raspberries? Can I use frozen?

Frozen raspberries work just fine, and they’re a great alternative when fresh aren’t in season. Just thaw and drain them slightly before mixing with the jam to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How sweet are the rolls? Can I adjust the sugar?

These rolls have a balanced sweetness that lets the matcha and raspberry flavors shine. If you prefer sweeter rolls, you can increase sugar in the dough or filling slightly, but be mindful that too much can overpower the delicate matcha taste.

Final Thoughts

Making Matcha Raspberry Rolls is like inviting a little celebration into your kitchen. Their radiant green swirls and bright raspberry filling create a feast for both eyes and palate, promising smiles with every bite. Give this recipe a go — I promise the warm, sweet, and earthy combination will quickly become one of your favorite indulgences to share with friends and family.

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