4.38 16 Published May 03, 2021, Updated Jan 30, 2024 You’ll save so much money making your own iced matcha lattes at home and it will be just as delicious, promise!
What is Matcha?
Let’s start with the basics!! Matcha is finely ground powder of green tea leaves, traditionally consumed in East Asia. It is super high in antioxidants which help stabilize free radicals that can cause damage to cells and cause chronic disease. Studies have linked matcha to liver protection, cancer prevention and improved heart health. It’s a no brainer addition to your daily routine! (Read more here.) Matcha started gaining popularity in the U.S. a few years ago and I’m quite certain it is here to stay.
How Much Caffeine Does Matcha Have?
The amount of caffeine in matcha varies. It depends on the brand, the freshness, how your prepare it and how much matcha you use! In general though, matcha has less caffeine than coffee so it makes a great substitution if you’re sensitive to caffeine or just want something with less caffeine to sip on in the afternoon. Coffee tends to give an instant energy boost while matcha gives a more mild, prolonged boost.
Iced Matcha Latte Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a matcha latte at home:
hot water – you’ll want your water to be at least 110ºF. matcha powder – look for a high-quality matcha powder that has a bright green color. Ceremonial grade matcha is known to be the highest quality. milk – any milk will work, but I prefer plant-based options like oat or almond milk. sweetener – this is totally optional, but I like to add maple syrup, honey or stevia for a hint of sweetness. Matcha has an earthy flavor so it’s nice to balance some of that with a little sweetness. ice – of course, matcha lattes are often served warm, but for this recipe we’re serving it over ice for the ultimate warm weather drink.
What Kind of Matcha Should I Buy?
There are so many variations of matcha out there these days! I like to look for brands that clearly disclose their sourcing. The matcha should be a bright, vibrant green color. If it is dull or olive/brown in color, it has likely been oxidized. I recently discovered Golde Pure Matcha and I’m obsessed! It dissolves super well and the flavor is delicious.
Matcha Latte Variations
Plain matcha lattes are great, but here are some fun ways to get creative with your matcha latte: Top with whipped cream – get real fancy and add a dollop of whipped cream on top of your iced latte. I’m hooked on coconut whipped cream right now! Add espresso – I first heard of this when a local coffee shop offered the added caffeine boost! Obviously it adds a little flavor too… so delicious if you want extra caffeine. Add turmeric – I love the combination of turmeric and matcha (and all the added health benefits of turmeric). To add turmeric, you’ll just dissolve the turmeric powder (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon) with your matcha powder in the warm water. Add cocoa powder – Want a chocolate twist? Just dissolve the cocoa powder (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon) with your matcha powder in the warm water.
More Drink Recipes to Try:
Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Creamy Iced Coffee in Your Blender How to Make Cold Brew Coffee Healthy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Lemon Chia Fresca How to Make Infused Water + 6 Recipes
