Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness and consistency)
• 1 to 2 tbsp matcha green tea powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 to 4 tbsp milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and matcha powder. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake: Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
7. Cool Cupcakes: Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, make the frosting. Beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Add milk or cream as needed to reach the desired consistency.
9. Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the matcha frosting. You can use a piping bag or simply spread the frosting on with a knife.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your matcha cupcakes as a delightful treat at any time of the day!