If you have ever craved a refreshingly vibrant drink that feels like a gentle hug on a warm day, this Iced Matcha Latte Recipe is exactly what you need. Smooth, subtly sweet, and boasting that gorgeous green hue, it’s the perfect balance between creamy and invigorating. Matcha’s unique earthiness combined with your favorite milk creates a creamy, chilled drink that will brighten any afternoon and energize your day. Whether you’re a longtime tea lover or new to the matcha world, this recipe brings a café-quality treat right to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect iced matcha latte comes down to simple, quality ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver that smooth texture, vibrant taste, and stunning color you expect. Each element is important, creating layers of flavor and refreshment with every sip.
- Matcha powder: Choose a high-quality ceremonial grade for the best vibrant color and smooth, grassy flavor.
- Hot water (1 to 2 tablespoons): This helps dissolve the matcha powder fully, creating a beautiful paste before dilution.
- Warm water (1 cup): Used to dilute the matcha paste so the flavor is just right and not overly intense.
- Ice: Essential for that cool, refreshing sensation without watering down the latte too quickly.
- Milk of choice: Almond milk is a fantastic option for a nutty undertone, but oat, soy, or dairy milk all bring their own delicious twist.
How to Make Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha Paste
Start by placing the matcha powder into a bowl or measuring cup. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water and whisk briskly until the matcha dissolves completely into a smooth paste without lumps. This step is key since matcha powder can clump if not properly incorporated, and this paste forms the base for an evenly flavored latte.
Step 2: Dilute with Warm Water
Pour in 1 cup of warm water into the matcha paste and stir well until fully blended. The warm water helps mellow the concentrated matcha, striking that perfect balance of strength and smoothness. This mix is what you will chill, so the flavor settles beautifully.
Step 3: Chill the Matcha Mixture
Transfer the matcha mixture to the fridge or freezer for about 15 minutes to cool thoroughly. Chilling not only enhances the refreshing coldness but also allows the flavors to meld gently, elevating each sip when you combine it with milk and ice.
Step 4: Assemble Your Iced Matcha Latte
Fill two glasses generously with ice to ensure your latte stays refreshingly cold. Pour your milk of choice over the ice, then slowly add the chilled matcha mixture. Give it a good stir so all the elements combine into a creamy, invigorating beverage that’s ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top can turn your everyday iced matcha latte into a delightful treat. Try a sprinkle of matcha powder for a bold hint of more green goodness or a few mint leaves for a refreshing aroma and splash of color. A light dusting of cinnamon or vanilla bean powder can give it a subtly sweet twist that feels indulgent.
Side Dishes
This cool, energizing drink pairs beautifully with light, fresh snacks. Think almond biscotti, delicate avocado toast, or a bowl of fresh berries. The subtle earthiness of matcha complements mildly sweet or nutty flavors, making it a perfect pick-me-up alongside light bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try layering your iced matcha latte by pouring the milk first, then gently adding the matcha mixture so it cascades beautifully through the glass before stirring. Use clear glassware to showcase the vibrant green color, and add a reusable straw in natural materials like bamboo or stainless steel for an eco-friendly touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you prepare extra matcha mixture, you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before serving as some separation might occur. It’s best to add fresh ice and milk right before enjoying for the perfect texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for pre-made iced matcha lattes because the texture of milk can change when frozen and thawed. It’s better to freeze matcha ice cubes separately if you want a chilled drink that won’t dilute quickly, then add milk when ready to serve.
Reheating
This iced matcha latte is designed to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer a warm matcha drink, make a fresh hot matcha latte by dissolving the matcha powder in hot water and adding steamed milk for that cozy comfort.
FAQs
Can I use regular green tea instead of matcha powder?
Regular green tea won’t create the same creamy, vibrant iced latte experience because matcha is powdered green tea leaves, providing a richer flavor and thicker texture that steeped tea cannot replicate.
Is almond milk the best choice for this recipe?
Almond milk works wonderfully for a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, but feel free to use any milk you prefer, such as oat, soy, or dairy milk. Each brings its own unique creaminess and taste to your Iced Matcha Latte Recipe.
What’s the best way to whisk matcha powder?
Traditionally, a bamboo whisk, or chasen, is used to get a smooth, frothy paste. If you don’t have one, a small regular whisk or even a milk frother does a good job ensuring the powder dissolves evenly.
How sweet should an iced matcha latte be?
The recipe is naturally slightly earthy and mild; sweetness can be adjusted to your taste by adding simple syrup, honey, or flavored syrups when mixing the milk and matcha.
Can I make this vegan and dairy-free?
Absolutely! Using plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy keeps your iced matcha latte 100% vegan and deliciously creamy without any dairy products.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fantastic Iced Matcha Latte Recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to treat yourself to the perfect chilled drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With such straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a café-worthy latte anytime at home. Pour yourself a glass, relax, and enjoy that smooth, refreshing burst of matcha goodness. You’re going to love how this little green cup of joy brightens your day!
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
A refreshing and vibrant Iced Matcha Latte made with finely whisked matcha powder, warm water, and your choice of milk. Perfect for a quick energizing drink with a smooth, creamy texture and a delightful green tea flavor.
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 (almond milk recommended)
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 completely dissolved and forms a smooth paste without lumps.
- Make Matcha Latte: Pour in 1 cup of warm water into the matcha paste and stir well to combine. Place the mixture in the fridge or freezer to chill for approximately 15 minutes until cool.
- Assemble the Drink: Fill two glasses with ice cubes. Add your preferred milk to each glass, then pour in the chilled matcha mixture. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors together before serving.
Notes
- Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) for a traditional method that helps create a frothy, smooth paste.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding simple syrup or honey if desired, as this recipe is naturally unsweetened.
- Use any milk alternative based on preference, such as oat, soy, or dairy milk.
- Chilling the matcha mixture helps maintain the vibrant color and creates a refreshing cold drink.
