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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Soft & Fluffy – Light, pillowy texture with a hint of chewiness.✔ Naturally Vegan – Made without eggs or dairy.✔ Matcha Flavor – A subtle, earthy sweetness that pairs well with tea or coffee.✔ No Oven Needed – Steamed to perfection for a smooth, bouncy texture.
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe
Resting time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour
Cuisine Chinese

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 g 1 tsp matcha powder
  • 3 g 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 20 g 1 ½ tbsp sugar
  • 120 ml ½ cup warm water
  • 10 g 2 tsp vegetable oil

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast.
  • Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour and matcha powder.
  • Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil,
  • then mix until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
  • If it’s too sticky, dust with a little more flour.

Step 4: First Rise

  • Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Mantou

  • Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles.
  • Roll it into a log and cut it into equal pieces (about 8).
  • For smooth buns, tuck the edges under each piece and shape into balls.

Step 6: Second Rise

  • Place the buns on parchment paper squares and cover them loosely.
  • Let them rest for 30 minutes until slightly puffed.

Step 7: Steam the Buns

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the buns in a steamer basket, leaving space between them.
  • Cover with the lid and steam on medium heat for 12–15 minutes.
  • Once done, turn off the heat but don’t open the lid for 5 minutes—this prevents the buns from shrinking.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

  • Enjoy warm on their own or with your favorite spreads! They pair beautifully with sweetened condensed milk, honey, or a dab of butter.

Video

Notes

Tips for Perfect Matcha Mantou
•Use high-quality matcha – Culinary-grade matcha works best for a bright green color and deep flavor.
•Proper kneading is key – The dough should be smooth and elastic for soft, fluffy buns.
•Let the dough rest – The second proofing helps develop a better texture.
•Avoid opening the lid too soon – Let the buns sit in the steamer for 5 minutes after steaming to prevent deflating.
 
Storage & Reheating
•Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
•Freezer: Freeze in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month.
•Reheat: Steam for 5 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel for 30 seconds.
 
These homemade matcha mantou are a must-try if you love soft, pillowy steamed buns with a hint of green tea flavor. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a spread, they’re an easy and delicious treat!
 
Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments or tag me on social media!