Are you a fan of matcha and chocolate? If so, you’ll love this vegan matcha chocolate recipe! Making your own chocolate at home is easier than you might think, and with the addition of matcha powder, you’ll have a unique and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
To make this vegan matcha chocolate, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients like cocoa butter, confectioner’s sugar, and matcha green tea powder. The cocoa butter is melted in a double boiler, then combined with the other ingredients to make a smooth and creamy chocolate mixture. Once the mixture is ready, you can pour it into molds and let it set in the fridge for a few hours.
This vegan matcha chocolate is not only delicious, but also healthy! Matcha is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to boost metabolism and improve brain function. Plus, by making your own chocolate at home, you can control the ingredients and avoid any additives or preservatives. So why not give this recipe a try and indulge in a guilt-free treat today?
What is Matcha
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from green tea leaves. It is a traditional Japanese tea that has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique taste and numerous health benefits. Matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves, which are handpicked and then ground into a fine powder. This process gives matcha its vibrant green color and distinct taste.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is known for its numerous health benefits. Here are a few of the most notable:
- High in Antioxidants: Matcha is packed with antioxidants that help protect your cells against damage from free radicals.
- Boosts Metabolism: Matcha contains a high concentration of catechins, which have been shown to increase metabolism and help burn fat.
- Enhances Mood and Concentration: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and improves focus.
- Detoxifies the Body: Matcha is high in chlorophyll, which helps eliminate toxins from the body.
Choosing Quality Matcha
When choosing matcha, it’s important to look for high-quality options to ensure you’re getting the best taste and health benefits. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for Ceremonial Grade: Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality and is made from the youngest, most tender tea leaves. It has a sweeter taste and is perfect for drinking on its own.
- Check the Color: High-quality matcha should have a vibrant green color. If it looks dull or yellowish, it may be lower quality.
- Read the Label: Look for matcha that is organic and free from additives or fillers. It should also be packaged in airtight containers to preserve freshness.
By choosing high-quality matcha and incorporating it into your diet, you can enjoy its unique flavor and numerous health benefits.
Ingredients Needed
To make delicious vegan matcha chocolate, you will need the following ingredients:
- Raw cacao butter (60g)
- Cacao powder (30g)
- Sweetener of your choice (such as maple syrup or agave nectar)
- Matcha green tea powder (1-2 teaspoons)
It is important to use high-quality ingredients to achieve the best possible flavor. Look for organic, fair trade cacao butter and powder, and ceremonial-grade matcha powder.
You will also need a double boiler or a heatproof bowl and a saucepan, as well as silicone chocolate molds or a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
Before you begin, make sure to measure out all of your ingredients and have them ready to go. This will make the process much smoother and prevent any mistakes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vegan Matcha Chocolate
Making your own vegan matcha chocolate at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create a delicious and healthy treat that is perfect for any occasion. Here is a step-by-step guide to making vegan matcha chocolate:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making your vegan matcha chocolate, you will need to gather all of the necessary ingredients. Here is what you will need:
- Vegan chocolate chips or bars
- Matcha powder
- Coconut oil
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Start by melting the vegan chocolate chips or bars in a double boiler or in the microwave. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
Step 3: Add Matcha Powder and Coconut Oil
Once the chocolate is melted, add in the matcha powder and coconut oil. Stir well until everything is fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Pour into Molds
Pour the chocolate mixture into your desired molds. You can use silicone molds, chocolate bar molds, or any other shape that you prefer. Tap the molds gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Step 5: Chill in the Fridge
Place the molds in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once the chocolate has set, remove it from the molds and enjoy! You can store the chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Making your own vegan matcha chocolate is a fun and easy way to enjoy a delicious and healthy treat. With this step-by-step guide, you can create your own homemade matcha chocolate in no time!
Tips for Success
When making vegan matcha chocolate, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your chocolate turns out perfectly. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
Matcha and Chocolate Pairing Tips
When it comes to pairing matcha and chocolate, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to choose a high-quality matcha powder that has a bright green color and a fresh, grassy aroma. Look for matcha that is labeled as ceremonial grade or premium grade for the best flavor.
When it comes to chocolate, you can use any type of vegan chocolate that you like. Dark chocolate is a popular choice, but you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer. Just make sure that the chocolate is vegan and free from any animal products.
To get the best flavor from your matcha and chocolate, it’s important to balance the two flavors. Matcha has a slightly bitter taste, so you may need to add a little extra sweetener to your chocolate to balance it out. You can also experiment with adding other flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to enhance the flavor of your chocolate.
Storing Vegan Matcha Chocolate
Once you’ve made your vegan matcha chocolate, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious. Here are some tips for storing your chocolate:
- Store your chocolate in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as this can cause the chocolate to become dull and lose its shine.
- Keep your chocolate away from direct sunlight and heat, as this can cause it to melt or become discolored.
- If you live in a warm climate, you may need to store your chocolate in the fridge to keep it from melting. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to avoid any condensation on the surface of the chocolate.
- If you’re giving your chocolate as a gift, wrap it in parchment paper or place it in a decorative box to make it look extra special.
Related: You may want to know How to Make Vegan White Chocolate: 3 Simple Steps Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions you may have about making vegan matcha chocolate:
Can I use regular chocolate instead of vegan chocolate?
While regular chocolate can be used, it will affect the green color of the matcha chocolate. If you want to maintain the vibrant green color, it’s best to use vegan white chocolate.
What kind of sweetener should I use?
You can use any sweetener you prefer, such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I use matcha tea instead of matcha powder?
No, it’s best to use matcha powder specifically made for cooking and baking. Matcha tea may not have the same texture and could affect the overall taste and consistency of the chocolate.
How long does it take for the chocolate to set?
It typically takes about 1-2 hours for the chocolate to set in the fridge. However, the exact time may vary depending on the size of your molds and the temperature of your fridge.
Can I add other flavors to the chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with adding different flavors such as vanilla extract, peppermint extract, or orange zest. Just be sure to adjust the amount accordingly and taste test as you go.
How should I store the chocolate?
Store the chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If you want to store it for longer, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before eating.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made your own vegan matcha chocolate from scratch. Making your own chocolate is a fun and rewarding experience, and it allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.
Remember, the key to making great vegan chocolate is to use high-quality ingredients, such as raw cacao powder and cacao butter. You can also experiment with different sweeteners, such as maple syrup or agave nectar, to find the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
To recap, here are the main steps to making vegan matcha chocolate:
- Melt the cacao butter in a bowl over a steaming pan.
- Add in the cacao powder and stir until smooth.
- Add sweetener to taste.
- Add matcha powder and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into molds and let it set in the fridge.
Once your chocolate has set, you can enjoy it on its own or use it as a topping for desserts. You can also experiment with different flavors and add-ins, such as nuts, dried fruit, or spices.
Remember, making chocolate is a process, and it may take some practice to get it just right. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little patience and creativity, you can create delicious and healthy vegan chocolate that you can enjoy guilt-free!
