Joybuy Insights

Buying Matcha Chocolate: A Guide to Authentic Japanese Snacks

Are you searching for that unique matcha chocolate flavour you’ve seen on social media or discovered on a trip to Japan? The selection in local supermarkets is often limited, making it difficult to find authentic Japanese snacks. This guide is here to help you in your search. We will highlight several popular choices and provide practical tips to help you make an informed decision.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I see it as my mission to provide you with clear, objective information about products you can find online.

What to Look for When Choosing Matcha Chocolate

Before you make your choice, here are a few points to consider that can help you find the right green tea chocolate for you.

1. The Balance Between Sweet and Bitter

Matcha naturally has an earthy, slightly bitter taste, while chocolate is typically sweet. The ratio between these two elements defines the final flavour experience. Some products use white chocolate as a base, resulting in a sweeter, creamier taste. Other varieties, often with 'dark' or 'rich' in their name, use a base with more cocoa or a more intense matcha, creating a deeper and less sweet flavour. Consider which profile you prefer beforehand.

2. Texture: From Crispy to Creamy

Japanese sweets are renowned for their surprising textures. Are you looking for the famous crispy wafer, like in a KitKat matcha? Or do you prefer a soft, creamy biscuit, such as in sandwich-style matcha cookies? The texture is a key part of the experience, so check the product description carefully to know what to expect.

3. Shelf Life of Imported Products

Since many of these snacks are imported directly from Japan, they may have a shorter shelf life (best-before date) than you might be used to. Reputable online stores will clearly state this on the product page. It is a good idea to pay attention to this, especially if you plan on stocking up.

Our Matcha Chocolate Recommendations

Below is a selection of popular matcha chocolate products currently available. We have chosen them based on their product specifications and unique characteristics.


Nestle KitKat Itoen Matcha & Chocolate

Nestle KitKat Itoen Matcha & Chocolate

Why It Stands Out: This KitKat combines the familiar crispy wafer with a layer of white chocolate and Japanese matcha. The package contains 9 individually wrapped bars, which is convenient for sharing or taking on the go.

  • Key Features:
    • Classic, crispy KitKat wafer texture.
    • Rich white chocolate that softens the matcha flavour.
    • Individually wrapped for convenience and freshness.
  • Who It's For:
    • Ideal for those trying matcha chocolate for the first time who enjoy a sweeter taste. Also a great choice for fans of the classic KitKat looking to experience a Japanese twist.

View Nestle KitKat Itoen Matcha & Chocolate →


Meiji Rich Chocolate Biscuit Sandwich Matcha Chocolate

Meiji Rich Chocolate Biscuit Sandwich Matcha Chocolate

Why It Stands Out: This product from Meiji is not a bar, but a sandwich. Two thin, crispy biscuits enclose a rich filling where the flavours of cocoa and premium matcha unite. A sophisticated option for the enthusiast.

  • Key Features:
    • Unique combination of a crispy biscuit and a creamy filling.
    • Harmonious balance between the deep flavour of cocoa and the earthy notes of matcha.
    • Made with wheat flour produced in Japan.
  • Who It's For:
    • Perfect for those looking for something beyond a standard chocolate bar. The combination of biscuit and chocolate offers a more complex texture and flavour.

View Meiji Rich Chocolate Biscuit Sandwich →


Nestle KitKat Dark Matcha

Nestle KitKat Dark Matcha

Why It Stands Out: This version of KitKat matcha is specially developed for those who love a more intense matcha flavour. According to the manufacturer, it uses Uji matcha powder, which is known for its deep, rich aroma. The combination with the crispy wafer creates a full-bodied, less sweet taste.

  • Key Features:
    • Intense, authentic matcha flavour.
    • Less sweet than the regular matcha KitKat.
    • Contains 7 individually wrapped bars.
  • Who It's For:
    • An excellent choice for the seasoned matcha enthusiast who appreciates the earthy, slightly bitter notes of high-quality matcha.

View Nestle KitKat Dark Matcha →


Looking for Other Japanese Snacks?

If matcha chocolate isn't quite what you're looking for, or if you're curious about other unique flavours from Japan, there is a wide range of Japanese snacks and chocolates to discover, from fruity flavours to savoury crackers.

Discover More Snacks & Chocolate on Joybuy.nl

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What exactly is matcha chocolate?

Matcha chocolate is a confectionery product where green tea powder (matcha) is blended with chocolate. White chocolate is most commonly used as the base, as its creamy and sweet flavour pairs well with the earthy notes of matcha. However, varieties with milk or dark chocolate also exist.

What does matcha chocolate taste like?

The flavour is a unique combination of sweet and earthy. You taste the creaminess of the chocolate, followed by the distinctive, slightly grassy, and somewhat bitter taste of matcha. The exact flavour depends on the ratio of chocolate to matcha and the quality of the ingredients used.

Where can I buy KitKat matcha in the Netherlands?

Authentic Japanese KitKat varieties, such as the different types of KitKat matcha, are generally not available in regular Dutch supermarkets. You can primarily find them at specialised Asian grocery stores and online shops that focus on importing Japanese sweets and snacks, like Joybuy.