Indulge in the perfect balance of rich, chocolatey cacao and vibrant, earthy matcha with these Cacao Matcha Cups. These bite-sized treats combine the antioxidants and health benefits of matcha with the smooth, creamy texture of chocolate, creating a unique flavor profile that will satisfy both your sweet tooth and your need for a little energy boost. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a fun twist on traditional chocolate treats, these cups are sure to hit the spot!

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make these flavorful and guilt-free cups that are packed with goodness. Plus, they’re no-bake and easy to customize—perfect for a quick snack or a homemade gift for friends and family. Let’s dive in and see how you can make these delicious Cacao Matcha Cups!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicious Flavor Combination

The earthy, slightly bitter taste of matcha beautifully complements the richness of cacao, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both unique and satisfying.

2. Healthy Snack Option

These cups are packed with antioxidants from both matcha and cacao, making them a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate treats. Plus, they contain no refined sugars, making them a great choice for those mindful of their sugar intake.

3. Easy and No-Bake

You won’t need an oven for this recipe! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the cups simply need time to set in the fridge, so you can enjoy them with minimal effort.

4. Customizable Toppings

Feel free to experiment with toppings such as shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra flavor and texture.

5. Perfect for Gift Giving

These Cacao Matcha Cups make for an excellent homemade gift! They’re easy to prepare in batches and can be packaged beautifully for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Base:

Cacao powder
Nut butter (such as almond, cashew, or peanut butter)
Maple syrup or honey
Coconut oil
Vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

For the Matcha Layer:

Matcha powder
Coconut milk (or any dairy-free milk)
Coconut oil
Maple syrup or honey
Vanilla extract

Variations

Vegan Version: Use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup, almond butter, and a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk to make these cups vegan-friendly.
Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy, substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle the tops of the cups with melted dark or white chocolate.
Superfood Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder, chia seeds, or flax seeds to either layer for an extra nutritional punch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the cacao powder, nut butter, maple syrup or honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Form the Base in Molds

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cacao mixture into each muffin tin or silicone mold. Press down gently to create an even layer at the bottom. Place the molds in the refrigerator to set for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the matcha layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Matcha Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together the matcha powder, coconut milk, coconut oil, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Once the cacao base has set, pour about 1-2 teaspoons of the matcha mixture over each cacao layer. Use the back of a spoon to smooth out the top and ensure it covers the cacao evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the molds in the refrigerator and let the cups set for at least 2-3 hours, or until they’re firm and fully set.

Step 6: Serve

Once the cups are completely set, carefully remove them from the molds and serve. Enjoy these delicious treats as a quick snack, dessert, or a homemade gift.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure the Layers Are Even: Make sure both the cacao base and matcha layer are spread evenly for a balanced flavor in each bite.
Use a High-Quality Matcha: The quality of your matcha powder will make a big difference in the flavor, so choose a high-quality, culinary-grade matcha for the best results.
Refrigeration Is Key: Make sure the cups are refrigerated long enough for the layers to set properly. If they’re not fully set, they might be too soft and difficult to remove from the molds.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more or less maple syrup or honey to the layers.

How to Serve

Serve these Cacao Matcha Cups chilled as a healthy, satisfying snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of green tea or your favorite smoothie for a refreshing treat. These cups are also a great addition to a snack platter or as a homemade gift for family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cacao Matcha Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months for longer shelf life. If frozen, let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Freezing

To freeze the cups, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

These cups are best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat them. If they’ve been frozen, allow them to thaw slightly before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular chocolate instead of cacao powder?

Yes, you can use melted dark chocolate, but the texture and flavor will be different. Cacao powder provides a deeper, richer flavor and is healthier.

2. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter are all great options. If you’re allergic to nuts, you can use sunflower seed butter or tahini as a substitute.

3. Can I make these cups without coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps to solidify the cups and give them a smooth texture. However, you can substitute it with another oil, like avocado oil or almond oil, although the flavor may change slightly.

4. How can I make these cups sweeter?

If you prefer your treats sweeter, you can add a little more maple syrup or honey to either the cacao or matcha layer to suit your taste.

5. Can I make these cups without a mold?

If you don’t have a silicone mold or muffin tin, you can simply spoon the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape them into small cups or discs.

6. Can I use a different milk besides coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk of your choice, but coconut milk provides a rich and creamy texture.

7. Are these cups vegan?

Yes, they can be made vegan by using maple syrup and dairy-free coconut milk, along with a plant-based nut butter.

8. Can I add other flavors to these cups?

Yes! You can experiment with adding flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or even a dash of sea salt for added depth.

9. Can I use matcha tea bags instead of matcha powder?

It’s best to use matcha powder, as it’s specifically designed for recipes like this. Matcha tea bags may not dissolve as smoothly, and the flavor won’t be as concentrated.

10. How can I make these cups more crunchy?

To add a crunch, try mixing in some chopped nuts, seeds, or granola into the cacao layer before setting it in the fridge.

Conclusion

These Cacao Matcha Cups are the perfect combination of creamy, rich chocolate and energizing, antioxidant-packed matcha. They’re easy to make, customizable, and make for a delicious treat or snack. Whether you’re looking for something healthy, sweet, or a bit of both, these cups offer the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Enjoy them as a quick snack, a dessert, or a thoughtful homemade gift!