If you have ever wanted to enjoy a refreshing and vibrant beverage that feels like a little moment of calm and luxury, then this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the earthy, slightly grassy notes of high-quality matcha powder with the creaminess of your favorite milk and the crispness of ice, this drink is a perfect pick-me-up any time of day. It’s simple to make, visually stunning with its bright green hue, and brings a burst of antioxidants with every sip. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will soon become one of your go-to refreshments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. Using just a handful of quality components ensures the latte tastes fresh and vibrant every time.
- Matcha powder: Choose a ceremonial or culinary grade for the best flavor and vibrant color; it’s the star ingredient.
- Hot water: Just enough to whisk the matcha into a smooth paste without clumps, helping release its rich flavors.
- Warm water: Adds volume and smoothness to the drink while refreshing the matcha taste.
- Ice: Essential for that cool, invigorating sensation, it also helps dilute the latte to a perfect balance.
- Milk of choice: Almond, oat, dairy, or coconut—milk adds creaminess and rounds out the earthy bitterness of matcha.
How to Make Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha Paste
Start by measuring out 2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a small bowl or measuring cup. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water—hot, but not boiling—to the powder. Use a bamboo whisk or a small regular whisk to vigorously mix until the matcha forms a smooth, lump-free paste. This step releases the vibrant color and delicate flavors locked into the powder, ensuring your latte is silky rather than gritty.
Step 2: Dilute and Chill the Matcha
Next, pour in 1 cup of warm water to the matcha paste and stir gently to combine. This dilutes the intensity to a smooth, approachable green tea flavor. To enjoy the iced version, chill this mixture in your fridge or freezer for about 15 minutes. Chilling is key—it tempers the warmth and allows the matcha’s freshness to really shine with the coolness of ice later on.
Step 3: Assemble Your Iced Matcha Latte
Fill two glasses generously with ice cubes. Pour your chilled matcha mixture evenly into the glasses. Finally, pour your chosen milk of choice over the top—almond milk adds a nutty sweetness, while oat or dairy bring extra creaminess. Stir everything together well so the matcha and milk marry perfectly, creating that signature creamy yet refreshing latte essence.
How to Serve Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little flourish to your iced matcha latte makes the experience even more enjoyable. Consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of matcha powder on top for a bright green crown, or a few tiny mint leaves for an extra fresh aroma. The slight contrast in texture and burst of color will elevate your drink beyond the ordinary.
Side Dishes
This cool and creamy drink pairs wonderfully with light and subtly sweet snacks like almond biscotti, coconut macaroons, or a fresh fruit salad. These sides complement the smooth bitterness of the matcha without overpowering it, creating a well-rounded treat for afternoon breaks or brunches.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity flow by serving the iced matcha latte in glass mason jars or clear tumblers to showcase that gorgeous green color. Layer the milk and matcha in separate layers before stirring for a beautiful ombré effect. You could also pour a dash of flavored syrup, like vanilla or lavender, for a customized twist that makes it feel like a café-worthy indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any matcha mixture left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving again, as matcha can settle or slightly separate over time.
Freezing
Freezing the matcha latte is not recommended because the texture of the milk can change and become grainy once thawed. Stick to fresh preparation for the best taste and experience.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold, but if you’d prefer a warm matcha latte, gently heat the chilled matcha mixture on the stove or in the microwave, then add warm milk before serving. Avoid boiling, as it can make matcha taste bitter.
FAQs
What kind of matcha powder should I use?
For the best flavor and color in this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe, ceremonical grade matcha is ideal. It’s finely ground and designed for drinking, offering a rich, smooth taste. Culinary grade can be used but may be slightly more bitter.
Can I use dairy milk instead of plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Dairy milk works beautifully if you prefer a creamier texture. Whole milk adds richness, while skim milk keeps it lighter. Feel free to experiment with different milks to find your perfect balance.
How sweet is the iced matcha latte?
This recipe does not include added sweeteners to keep the pure matcha flavor honest. However, you can always sweeten it to your taste with honey, agave, or simple syrup when assembling your drink.
Can I make this drink vegan?
Yes, using plant-based milks such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut ensures your iced matcha latte stays vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.
Is there a best time to drink this latte?
Matcha contains caffeine, so morning or early afternoon is perfect to enjoy your iced matcha latte for a gentle energy boost. It’s a great alternative to coffee if you want sustained alertness without jitters.
Final Thoughts
This Iced Matcha Latte Recipe is a wonderful way to brighten your day with a drink that’s as healthy as it is delicious. It’s wonderfully simple to make, beautifully refreshing, and perfect for sharing or savoring solo. I encourage you to give this delightful latte a try and make it your new favorite go-to for a lively morning or a relaxing afternoon treat.
Print
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This refreshing Iced Matcha Latte is a perfect balance of vibrant matcha green tea and creamy milk, served chilled over ice for a deliciously energizing drink. Using simple ingredients like matcha powder, hot water, and your choice of milk, this easy-to-make beverage can be enjoyed any time of day for a naturally caffeine-boosted treat.
Ingredients
Matcha Mixture
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup warm water
To Serve
- Ice, as needed
- Milk of choice (e.g., almond milk), about 1 cup
Instructions
- Prepare Matcha Paste: In a measuring cup or bowl, add 2 teaspoons of matcha powder. Pour in 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water and whisk vigorously until the matcha powder is fully dissolved and forms a smooth paste without clumps.
- Make Matcha Latte Base: Add 1 cup of warm water to the matcha paste and stir well to combine. Then chill the mixture in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15 minutes until cool.
- Assemble Latte: Fill two serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour milk of your choice into each glass, then pour the chilled matcha mixture over the milk and ice. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) if available for a smoother matcha paste.
- Adjust the amount of milk depending on your preferred creaminess.
- For a sweeter option, add a teaspoon of honey or sweetener of choice before chilling.
- Chilling the matcha mixture ensures a refreshing iced drink without diluting the flavors with melting ice.
- Almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative, but oat or soy milk also work well.
