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There is something truly magical about a well-made iced matcha latte, and this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Bright green from the finest matcha powder, beautifully smooth and creamy from your choice of milk, and refreshingly cool with just the right touch of sweetness, this beverage is not just a drink but an experience. Whether you’re sipping it as a mid-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, this recipe is an easy yet elegant way to enjoy the rich, earthy flavors of matcha in a cool, revitalizing form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients makes this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe so approachable, and each one plays a starring role. From the vivid green matcha powder that brings vivid color and antioxidants, to the milk that adds smoothness and body, every component is thoughtfully chosen to elevate the flavor and texture.
- Matcha powder: Use 1 teaspoon of high-quality, finely sifted matcha for vibrant color and full flavor without bitterness.
- Hot water: 3 tablespoons at around 180°F to dissolve the matcha and unlock its aromas without scorching.
- Ice water: 3 tablespoons to gently cool the matcha mixture, ensuring a smooth and balanced base.
- Milk of your choice: ¾ cup (180 mL) to add creaminess and smooth texture, whether dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk.
- Ice cubes: To chill the latte quickly and keep it refreshingly cold.
- Optional sweetener: 1 to 2 teaspoons of simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey to add a hint of natural sweetness that complements the matcha.
How to Make Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Step 1: Sift the Matcha Powder
Start by sifting 1 teaspoon of matcha powder through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl. This crucial step removes any clumps, ensuring that your latte will be silky smooth and free of grittiness. It might seem small, but it really makes a difference in the final texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Matcha Base
Next, pour 3 tablespoons of hot water—ideally around 180°F—over the sifted matcha. Using a bamboo whisk or a small electric whisk, whisk vigorously until the matcha powder is completely dissolved and frothy. This creates a concentrated, flavorful matcha base that’s free of lumps and ready to shine.
Step 3: Dilute and Cool the Matcha
Add 3 tablespoons of ice-cold water to the matcha mixture and whisk briefly to combine. This clever step cools down the matcha and adjusts the strength, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor that won’t overpower but still delivers that unmistakable matcha goodness.
Step 4: Assemble Your Latte
Fill a glass about two-thirds full with ice cubes. Pour in ¾ cup of your favorite milk, then carefully layer the prepared matcha mixture on top. The beautiful green gradient not only looks stunning but signals the pure and fresh taste of your handmade iced matcha latte.
Step 5: Sweeten and Serve
If you love a hint of sweetness, now’s the time to stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of sweetener like simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey. Give it a gentle stir to blend everything together, then sip immediately. This is your fresh, cool, and energizing moment of bliss!
How to Serve Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little flair to your Iced Matcha Latte Recipe by sprinkling a tiny pinch of matcha powder on top or adding a few fresh mint leaves. A thin slice of lemon on the rim can complement the earthiness of matcha with a citrusy zing, making your presentation as delightful as your first sip.
Side Dishes
This latte pairs beautifully with light, subtly sweet treats like a buttery almond croissant, a matcha-flavored cookie, or fresh seasonal fruit. These sides complement rather than compete with the unique flavors of the matcha latte, creating a memorable mini indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For an Instagram-worthy twist, try layering the matcha and milk slowly so you get a beautiful ombré effect. Or serve in a clear, tall glass with a reusable straw for an eco-friendly, chic look. You can even try topping with a light foam made from frothed milk to add a café-inspired feel at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover matcha base, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the milk and ice separate until you’re ready to drink for the freshest taste and best texture.
Freezing
Freezing the matcha latte isn’t recommended because the milk and water-based components can separate and lose their creamy texture once thawed. Fresh is always best with this recipe!
Reheating
This recipe is designed to be enjoyed cold, so reheating defeats the refreshing intention. However, if you want a warm twist, prepare a fresh hot matcha latte using similar steps but with warm milk, skipping the ice and cold water components.
FAQs
Can I use any type of milk in this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe?
Absolutely! Whether it’s dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk, choose what suits your taste and dietary needs. Each brings a different creaminess and flavor, so feel free to experiment.
Is matcha powder the same as green tea?
Not quite. Matcha is finely ground powdered green tea leaves, which means when you drink it, you’re consuming the whole leaf, resulting in a richer, more robust flavor and more antioxidants than steeped green tea.
How strong should the matcha flavor be?
This Iced Matcha Latte Recipe balances strength by using 1 teaspoon of matcha. If you prefer a bolder taste, you can add a little more, but be careful as too much could become bitter.
What’s the best way to whisk matcha for iced drinks?
A traditional bamboo whisk works wonders, but a small electric frother or milk frother is also fantastic, especially if you want quick, smooth, and frothy matcha without the arm workout.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Use any plant-based milk and vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it completely plant-based while still deliciously creamy and refreshing.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe is like inviting a little green happiness into your day. It’s clean, refreshing, and packed with flavor, perfect for those moments when you want a beverage that feels both indulgent and virtuous. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy matcha!
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Print
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and smooth Iced Matcha Latte made with finely sifted matcha powder, hot and cold water for perfect concentration, combined with your choice of milk and served over ice. This easy 5-minute recipe yields a beautifully layered, lightly sweetened beverage that’s perfect for a cooling energy boost.
Ingredients
Matcha Base
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 3 tablespoons hot water (around 180°F)
- 3 tablespoons ice water
Drink
- ¾ cup milk of your choice (180mL)
- Ice cubes as needed
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sweetener (simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey)
Instructions
- Sift the matcha: In a small bowl, sift 1 teaspoon of matcha powder through a fine mesh strainer to remove any clumps, ensuring a smooth and lump-free latte.
- Prepare the matcha base: Add 3 tablespoons of hot water (about 180°F) to the sifted matcha. Using a bamboo matcha whisk or a mini whisk, vigorously whisk the mixture until the matcha powder is fully dissolved and no lumps remain, creating a smooth, concentrated matcha base.
- Dilute and cool: Add 3 tablespoons of cold water to the matcha mixture and whisk to combine. This cools the matcha down and achieves the perfect concentration for the latte.
- Assemble the latte: Fill a glass two-thirds full with ice cubes. Pour in ¾ cup of your chosen milk, then gently pour in the prepared matcha mixture to create a visually appealing layered effect.
- Sweeten and serve: If desired, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of your preferred sweetener like simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately for a refreshing iced matcha latte.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality ceremonial grade matcha powder.
- Adjust sweetness according to personal preference or omit sweetener for a pure matcha taste.
- You can use any milk of your choice including dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk.
- Whisking vigorously is key to dissolving the matcha powder fully and preventing lumps.
- Serve immediately after preparation to enjoy the fresh flavor and optimal texture.
