This easy matcha pudding is a silky, smooth no-bake dessert with a perfectly balanced bitter-sweet flavor. Made with just four simple ingredients, it comes together quickly on the stovetop and sets beautifully in the fridge. It’s light yet satisfying, and delicious on its own or dressed up with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with only four main ingredients
Completely no-bake and beginner-friendly
Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free
Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture without heavy cream
Customizable with a variety of toppings
Ready with minimal prep and simple equipment
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Unflavored gelatin powder – 2 teaspoons (about 1 envelope)
Oat milk – 2¼ cups total, divided
Organic cane sugar or white granulated sugar – ¼ cup
Matcha powder – 2 tablespoons, plus extra for dusting
Optional toppings (use as desired):
Non-dairy whipped cream
Crushed pistachios or other nuts
Fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries
Directions
In a microwave-safe cup, combine the unflavored gelatin powder with ¼ cup of oat milk. Whisk very well with a fork until fully combined, then let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
While the gelatin is blooming, pour the remaining 2 cups of oat milk into a saucepan. Add the sugar and warm over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to remove any clumps. Scoop 4 tablespoons of the warm milk mixture from the saucepan and add it to the matcha. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and lump-free.
Pour the matcha mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Stir well to fully combine.
Melt the bloomed gelatin by microwaving it in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully dissolved. Alternatively, melt it gently using a double boiler. Be careful not to let it boil.
Pour the dissolved gelatin mixture into the matcha milk base. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Carefully pour the mixture into individual serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Once chilled, serve as is or top with non-dairy whipped cream, crushed nuts, or a light dusting of matcha powder.
Servings and timing
Servings: 5 individual cups (about 4 oz each)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Substitute oat milk with soy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Reduce the sugar to 3 tablespoons for a more pronounced matcha bitterness.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
Layer the pudding with sweetened red bean paste for a more traditional Japanese-style dessert.
Storage/Reheating
Store the matcha pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Avoid freezing, as it can negatively affect the smooth texture once thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding without gelatin?
Yes, but you will need to replace gelatin with a plant-based setting agent such as agar-agar, adjusting the quantity according to package instructions.
Why is my pudding not setting?
This usually happens if the gelatin was overheated or boiled, which weakens its setting power, or if it wasn’t fully dissolved.
How do I prevent matcha clumps?
Always sift the matcha powder and whisk it with a small amount of warm liquid before adding it to the full mixture.
Can I use sweetened matcha powder?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added sugar to avoid an overly sweet pudding.
Is this pudding very bitter?
The bitterness is mild and balanced with sugar. You can adjust sweetness to taste.
Can I use regular dairy milk?
Yes, regular milk works well if you do not need the recipe to be dairy-free.
How long does it take to fully set?
It typically sets in about 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and divide into more serving cups.
What toppings go best with matcha pudding?
Non-dairy whipped cream, crushed pistachios, fresh fruit, or extra matcha powder all pair well.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Yes, though you may want to slightly reduce the matcha for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
This easy matcha pudding is a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the unique flavor of matcha in a smooth, creamy form. With minimal ingredients and effort, you get a beautifully set pudding that feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for everyday enjoyment. Whether served plain or topped generously, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
This easy matcha pudding is a smooth, no-bake dessert made with just four ingredients. Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, it combines the earthy flavor of matcha with a lightly sweet, creamy texture that sets beautifully in the fridge for a refreshing and elegant treat.
