Hot Matcha Latte

5 from 30 votes

The matcha latte is a creamy, earthy green tea beverage that is easy to make, blended with steamed milk and a hint of sweetness.

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If you’re craving something warm and tasty, this hot matcha latte recipe is just what you need! It’s super easy to make, and you only need four ingredients – high-quality matcha powder, hot water, milk, and a little honey. Plus, you get to pick the milk and sweetener you like, so it’s totally up to you how you want to make it. Whisk it all together, and you’ve got a frothy, lightly sweet matcha latte that not only tastes so good but also gives you a boost of energy!

Matcha latte in a glass mug with matcha powder on a spoon and small dish.
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What I like the most about this easy matcha latte recipe is that it is packed with good stuff. In fact, it has a higher content of antioxidants than traditional green tea since you’re using the entire green tea leaf. This latte has become one of my essentials for busy mornings when I need a serious energy boost, and I’m sure it will become yours too!

What is Matcha Powder

Essentially, Matcha is a type of green tea that’s ground up into a fine powder. Unlike regular green tea that you steep, you whisk this powder into hot water to make a frothy, vibrant green drink.

It’s very important in Japanese culture and often used in their tea ceremonies. But these days, it’s not just for ceremonies—you’ll find it in coffee shops all around the world in form of iced drinks, boba teas and, you guessed it, lattes.

What’s the difference between ceremonial grade and culinary grade matcha?

When I first started making matcha lattes at home I didn’t know much about their specifics, but over time I learned that there are two main types of matcha: ceremonial grade and culinary grade. Ceremonial grade is the best for matcha lattes. It’s made from the youngest tea leaves, has a brighter green color, and a smoother, more delicate flavor. It’s what people usually use in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and for just sipping on its own.

Culinary grade, on the other hand, is more for cooking and mixing into recipes like smoothies or baked goods. It’s made from older tea leaves and is a bit less vibrant in color and flavor. It’s still good, just not as high quality as the ceremonial grade. So if you’re cooking, mixing it into smoothies, culinary grade is your go-to.

My go-to brand of matcha powder

My favorite matcha powder brand is Matcha Love, and I opt for the ceremonial grade one because it has a beautiful green color, richer taste and smooth texture. I only use a teaspoon when I make my matcha lattes, so I also love buying the single serve pre-measured packets for traveling

Why you’ll love this easy matcha latte recipe

  • Quick and Easy: You can whip up this easy matcha latte recipe in minutes, no complicated steps or long prep time! What’s great about this is that even when you’re in a rush or just not feeling like doing a lot, you can still enjoy a comforting, nutrient-rich drink without the wait or hassle.
  • Nutrient-Packed: The matcha in this latte is way more than just tasty—it’s loaded with antioxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C that are good for your skin and heart. Plus, it’s got a more even-keeled caffeine boost, so you get energy without the jitters.
  • Cost-effective: Making matcha lattes at home can save you some money compared to what you’d pay at Starbucks or a fancy coffee shop. Matcha lattes can be expensive, especially if you’re a regular matcha drinker (guilty!). By making them at home, you get the same tasty experience without the hefty price tag.
  • Great for On-the-Go: Whether you’re headed to work, the gym, or brunch with some friends, this matcha latte is super portable. Just make it ahead of time, pop it in a travel mug, and you’re all set for a tasty, energizing drink on the move.

Ingredients to make a hot matcha latte

Ingredient for recipe: matcha powder, honey, and warm milk.
  • Matcha Green Tea Powder: You’ll want a good quality matcha for the best flavor. You can use either ceremonial or culinary grade, depending on what you have or prefer. I do recommend you go with ceremonial for the best flavor.
  • Hot Water: This helps dissolve the matcha powder and bring out its flavor.
  • Milk of Choice: You can use any milk you like! Almond, oat, cow’s milk—they all work.
  • Honey or Sweetener: To sweeten things up a bit. If you’re not into honey, maple syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia works, too.
  • Use any milk. Whether you’re a fan of almond, oat, coconut, or cow’s milk, any of them will do the trick. Each brings a unique flavor twist to this hot matcha latte recipe, so feel free to switch it up!
  • Use any sweetener. Honey, maple syrup, agave, or even stevia. Whichever you prefer, just ensure it dissolves well in the hot water before adding in your milk.
  • Swap the milk for hot water. Want a stronger matcha flavor? Ditch the milk and go all in with hot water for a more traditional tea experience.
  • Make it iced. For those warm days or just because you love it cold, pour your freshly made latte over a glass of ice to make an Iced Matcha Latte. Cool, refreshing, and so good!
  • Spice it up. A dash of cinnamon or a hint of vanilla can make all the difference. Play around with different spices or extracts to find your perfect matcha blend. It’s all about making it yours!

How to make a hot matcha latte

  1. In a small bowl, sift the matcha green tea powder to remove any clumps. [Image 1]
  2. Add the hot water to the matcha powder. [Image 2]
  3. Whisk or froth the matcha and hot water together until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy. [Image 3]
  4. Stir in the honey until it dissolves completely. [Image 4]
4 image collage making recipe: 1- matcha powder in a small mesh sieve over a measuring cup of hot water, 2- showing water and matcha, 3- milk frother mixing water and powder, and 4- honey being added.

Tips for making the best Matcha Latte

  1. Sift the matcha green tea powder to remove any clumps. This step is not necessary and I do often skip it, but it will ensure a smooth and creamy latte texture.
  2. Use a spoon to hold back the milk foam as you pour. This allows the liquid to flow into the bowl or mug and creates a more smooth and creamy latte. You can then use the spoon to gently fold the milk and match together.
  3. Mix sweetener into hot water, not milk. Stir your honey or other sweeteners into the hot water first. This way, it’ll dissolve more evenly, and you won’t get a super sweet last sip.
  4. Mix in a “W” or “M” shape. When you’re mixing the matcha powder and hot water, go for a “W” or “M” shape motion. It helps you get that nice, frothy layer on top. It’s a small move, but makes a big difference in texture.
Matcha latte mixture is poured in to warm milk in a glass mug with another mug of latte nearby.

What to serve with your matcha latte

How to store & reheat leftover matcha latte

After you’ve whipped up your latte, if you find yourself with leftovers or you’re making it ahead of time, just pour it into a sealed container or bottle and place it in the fridge.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give the bottle or container a good shake to mix things up. Then, gently reheat the matcha latte on the stovetop over low heat until it’s warm. Avoid letting it boil, as that can change the taste.

How long will a matcha latte last in the fridge?

Your matcha latte will stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 2 days. After that, the flavor starts to fade a bit, so it’s best to drink up!

Can I freeze a matcha latte?

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze your matcha latte! Just pour it into an ice cube tray and let it freeze. When you’re in the mood for a latte, just pop out a few cubes, let them melt, and then warm them up. Perfect for a quick matcha fix!

Frequently asked questions

Why does my matcha latte taste bitter? 

If your latte is coming out bitter, and you used ceremonial grade matcha, it’s usually one of two things: the water was too hot, or you used too much matcha powder. Make sure your water is warm but not boiling, and try using a bit less matcha next time. You can add more milk and sweetener to balance it out.


Can I make a matcha latte without a whisk or frother?

Yes! If you don’t have a whisk or frother, you can use a fork to mix the matcha and hot water. It may not get as frothy, but it’ll still taste great. You can also shake it all up in a sealed jar or even blend it quickly in a blender.

Is there a decaf version of matcha powder?

While matcha naturally contains caffeine, there are very few brands out there that offer a decaf version. Just keep in mind that if you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to have your matcha latte earlier in the day or look for specific decaf options.

2 glass mugs of matcha latte with focus on one. Spoonful of matcha powder and a small dish of more nearby.

There you have it, your go-to hot matcha latte recipe! Not only is it super easy to make, but it’s also packed with the goodness of matcha, which gives you a solid nutrient and caffeine kick. Whether you need a morning boost or a cozy evening sip, this matcha latte has got you covered!

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Matcha Latte

The matcha latte is a creamy, earthy green tea beverage that is easy to make, blended with steamed milk and a hint of sweetness.
5 from 30 votes
Servings 1 serving
Course Beverages
Calories 86
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
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Ingredients
  

Instructions

  • In a small bowl or mug, sift the matcha green tea powder to remove any clumps.
  • Add the hot water and whisk the matcha and hot water together until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy.
  • Stir in the honey until it dissolves completely.
  • Heat the milk in a cup for 1 minute. Then pour the matcha mixture slowly over the warm milk using a whisk or frother to incorporate the matcha into the milk as you pour. Enjoy immediately.

Equipment

Nutrition

Calories: 86kcal, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 5g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 489mg, Potassium: 4mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 200IU, Vitamin C: 0.04mg, Calcium: 451mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.

Cuisine Asian
Course: Beverages
5 from 30 votes (28 ratings without comment)

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Comments

  1. Melissa says:

    This is so far my best recipe for a matcha latte… Better than a coffee shop 🤩!!!

    1. Yumna J. says:

      Aww thank you so much, Melissa!! So happy to hear you like it!

  2. Dominique says:

    Omg, this is so good! It’s like a hug in a mug!! 😁😁
    Definitely is now a new favorite! This is delicious! Had mine with oat milk. Yum!!