I tried the “Matcha Cheese Tart”—a signature classic from the freshly baked cheese tart specialist “BAKE CHEESE TART”—made with their original matcha blend. Despite comfortably fitting in the palm of your hand, it is a masterclass in contrasting textures that offers rich depth, sophisticated nuance, and immense charm. Here is my detailed review.
About BAKE CHEESE TART
BAKE CHEESE TART is a cheese tart and dessert brand operated by BAKE Inc. With more than 10 boutiques across Japan and international locations in places like Hong Kong and South Korea, it has grown into a globally recognized sweets brand.
BAKE Inc. is also the company behind other popular confectionery concepts, such as the custard apple pie specialist “RINGO” and the butter sandwich cookie brand “PRESS BUTTER SAND.”
The BAKE CHEESE TART brand was established in November 2014. Its flagship shop in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo, drew massive queues day after day. In the years that followed, freshly baked cheese tarts became a culinary sensation throughout Japan, prompting specialized tart shops of a similar style to emerge nationwide.
The BAKE CHEESE TART Lineup
Here is a quick look at BAKE CHEESE TART’s current selection, which has expanded significantly since its founding. In addition to their original signature cheese tart, they craft a wide array of cheese-centric treats, including cute fan-shaped and flower-shaped tarts, airy cheese soufflés, and crisp cheese cookies. Each treat remains palm-sized, portable, and easy to enjoy on the go—staying true to the brand’s founding philosophy.
A Cheese Tart Crafted with an Original Matcha Blend
The treat I purchased this time is their permanent staple: the Matcha Cheese Tart.
Priced at 324 yen (tax included), it can be carried at ambient room temperature and boasts a 4-day shelf life from the date of purchase—impressively long for a fresh pastry of this caliber. This makes it just as suitable for gifting and souvenirs as it is for a personal indulgence.
Looking at the tart itself, the pastry shell is infused with matcha and filled with a matcha cheese custard before being baked to perfection. Green tea is generously incorporated into both the tart crust and the molten cheese filling. The matcha used is their proprietary custom blend named “First Bitter.”
Although I frequent BAKE CHEESE TART regularly, I had surprisingly never tried this matcha flavor until now. Here are my tasting impressions.
Tasting Impressions
The tart shell is wonderfully crisp and crunchy, offering an immensely satisfying bite, while the interior cheese filling is lusciously smooth and molten. The core appeal of BAKE CHEESE TART lies in this sensational contrast between the crunchy shell and the gooey center, and this matcha version showcases that dynamic flawlessly.
Flavor-wise, an opulent matcha aroma bursts from both the crust and the filling. It delivers a rich, earthy profile accompanied by delicate, nuanced undertones. Layered over this is the velvety richness of cream cheese alongside the buttery, nutty aroma of the baked dough. Combining airy lightness with profound depth, it is a truly captivating dessert.
Product Information
- Shop: BAKE CHEESE TART
- Product Name: Matcha Cheese Tart
- Price: 324 yen (tax included)
- Shelf Life: 4 days including date of purchase (Can be stored at room temperature)
- Reference Link: Official Website
