Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder (culinary grade)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canned coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Optional: a sprinkle of powdered sugar for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tray with liners or grease it lightly with coconut oil.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually add the coconut milk and vanilla extract to the coconut oil mixture, stirring gently to incorporate all the ingredients.
5. Combine the dry ingredients (from step 2) with the wet ingredients (from step 4). Be sure not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing might result in dense muffins, which we want to avoid.
6. Once the batter is well combined, fold in the shredded coconut. This will add texture and a touch of sweetness to the muffins.
7. Divide the batter equally into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters of the way.
8. Place the muffin tray into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
9. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tray for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finishing touch.

Tips and Variations:

• For a moist and tender crumb, avoid overmixing the batter. A gentle and minimalistic folding technique is key.
• Customize your Matcha Coconut Muffins by adding a handful of white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped macadamia nuts to the batter.
• For an extra matcha “kick,” consider adding a teaspoon or two of matcha powder to your powdered sugar topping before dusting it over the muffins.
• Enjoy these marvels with a cup of hot matcha tea or a refreshing lychee iced tea for the ultimate Japanese-inspired treat.

Conclusion:

Dear culinary adventurers, these Matcha Coconut Muffins embody the perfect harmony of flavors, transporting you to the timeless beauty of Kyoto. Every bite whispers tales of tea ceremonies and the delicate blend of tradition and innovation found in Japan’s culinary traditions. May you embark on a captivating journey through your own kitchen, as you savor these delightful treasures and continue to recreate stories of your own.