How do you make a matcha latte?

Matcha is Japanese green tea powder that’s becoming increasingly popular around the world, and a matcha latte is a delicious way to enjoy its distinctive flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot latte or a refreshing iced version, this step-by-step guide makes it easy to prepare one at home.

What you’ll need

Ingredients:

• Half to one teaspoon (1-2 grams) of matcha powder (culinary, premium or ceremonial)
• 60 ml hot water (75-80 °C, not boiling)
• 200 ml milk of your choice (dairy, oat, almond, etc.)
• Sweetener to taste (honey, sugar, agave, optional)
• Ice cubes (for the iced version)

Equipment:

• Small bowl or matcha bowl
• Bamboo whisk (chasen) or a frother
• Milk frother or small saucepan

No whisk or bowl yet? Read matcha starter kit: what you need to see what you need and how to use a bamboo whisk.

Step 1: Prepare the matcha

1. Sift the matcha powder to prevent lumps.
2. Add the powder to a bowl or mug.
3. Pour in 60 ml of hot water and whisk with a bamboo whisk or frother until smooth and foamy.

Tip: A good layer of foam gives your latte a luxurious look and enhances the tasting experience.

Step 2: Froth the milk

For the hot latte:

• Heat the milk in a small saucepan until just below boiling point.
• Whisk or froth the milk until creamy.

For the iced latte:

• Use your choice of cold (plant-based) milk. You can froth the milk lightly with a frother if you like, but it’s not necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the latte

Hot matcha latte:

1. Pour the frothed milk into the matcha mixture.
2. Stir gently or pour the milk in slowly for a beautiful swirl effect.
3. Add sweetener if desired.

Iced matcha latte:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the cold (plant-based) milk.
3. Pour the matcha mixture over it.
4. Add sweetener to taste, if desired.

Tip: Stir briefly for a beautiful green swirl and an even flavor.

Tips for the perfect latte

• Use fresh, high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor. Not sure which kind to choose? Read about the difference between culinary, premium, and ceremonial matcha.
• Adjust the sweetness to suit your personal preference.
• Experiment with different types of milk. Oat milk and almond milk add a light, nutty flavor, while coconut milk gives it a creamy, tropical twist that’s very popular these days.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a warm, comforting matcha latte or a refreshing iced version, making one yourself is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and a little attention to technique, you can enjoy a delicious green latte, just like at your favorite café. What matcha is and how much caffeine it contains is explained in what is matcha.