These festive matcha pancakes are soft, fluffy, and naturally green.
They’re made with Aiya Culinary Grade Matcha, which gives them that beautiful color and a mellow green tea flavor.
Stack them into cute Christmas tree shapes, add fruit, whipped cream, or sprinkles, and you’ve got a cozy breakfast that’s just as pretty as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Aiya Culinary Grade Matcha Powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fruits and whipped cream for decorating
- Maple syrup (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve made these for a few years now, and every time, they’re a hit. There’s just something extra cozy about having matcha pancakes in December. They’re festive without being too sweet, and the color is totally natural — no food dye needed.
- Beautiful soft green color from real matcha
- Light and fluffy with just the right sweetness
- Comes together in one bowl
- Easy to decorate for holiday fun
- Feels like a treat but is simple enough for any morning
Makes
Enough to share (about 6–8 pancakes)
Cook Time
30 minutes
Macros (Per Pancake, Without Toppings)
- Calories: 135
- Carbs: 17g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The baking powder gives a quick rise, making the pancakes light and fluffy. Matcha powder blends smoothly into the dry mix and holds its color and flavor even after cooking. The fat from the butter adds richness and helps with browning.
Common Mistakes
- Using low-quality matcha: You won’t get that bright green color or smooth taste. Stick with culinary grade.
- Overmixing the batter: This leads to dense pancakes. Stir until just combined.
- Pan too hot: This can brown the pancakes too fast and dull the green color. Medium heat is best.
- Skipping butter/oil: A lightly greased pan keeps them from sticking and helps create an even golden crust.
What to Serve With
- Maple syrup or honey
- Sliced fruit like strawberries or kiwi
- Whipped cream
- Holiday sprinkles
- A warm matcha latte or peppermint mocha
Let’s Make Matcha Christmas Tree Pancakes
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon Aiya matcha powder, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt until fully combined.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and frothy.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk or fold with a spatula until just incorporated. Do not overmix. Batter should be smooth but slightly lumpy.
Step 4: Heat and Grease the Pan
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or vegetable oil.
Step 5: Cook Pancakes
Scoop batter into the pan to make small, medium, and large circles. Cook 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top and edges begin to set. Flip and cook another 1 minute until golden.
Step 6: Stack and Decorate
Place cooked pancakes on a plate, stacking largest to smallest to form a tree shape. Decorate with fruit, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and sprinkles.
FAQ
Can I use a different milk?
Yes — almond, oat, or soy milk all work well.
Can I make this vegan?
You can! Use plant milk, a flax egg, and vegan butter or oil.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Let them cool, separate with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 1 month.
How do I reheat them?
Use the toaster or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Do they taste bitter?
Not if you use a good-quality matcha and balance with toppings like fruit or syrup.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use gluten-free 1:1 flour
- Add mini chocolate chips
- Serve with yogurt instead of whipped cream
- Drizzle with white chocolate
- Use star fruit on top for a “tree topper”
Tools Required
- Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 small)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Ladle or scoop
- Plate for stacking and serving
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix dry ingredients ahead and store in a jar
- Melt butter ahead and refrigerate
- Cook pancakes, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer
Leftovers and Storage
Cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3 days or freeze up to 1 month. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.
Conclusion
These Matcha Christmas Tree Pancakes are a cozy way to make your morning feel festive and bright. They’re easy to whip up, and the decorations make them feel special. Give them a try and let me know how yours turn out — or leave a comment if you have any questions!
