Homemade Matcha Latte Recipe

Learn how to make a matcha latte that’s smooth, creamy, earthy, with a bit of sweetness. Matcha powder is filled with antioxidants and provides a stable caffeine boost (without jitters).

I’m a huge fan of matcha lattes, but buying them at a cafe can add up! With the hopes of saving money, I started making them at home and to my surprise, I learned that homemade matcha lattes are even better than cafes. I’ve spent loads of time testing different matcha ratios until I found a recipe that results in this delicious hot drink.

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About Matcha Powder

What exactly is matcha? It’s a fine green powder that’s made by grinding down tea leaves.

When you drink matcha, you’re drinking the whole tea leaf unlike teas that you steep. Because of this, you receive more antioxidants, nutrients, and caffeine. Caffeine amounts variey based on the brand and can be anywhere from 40-180g.

How To Choose a Matcha Powder

Choosing the right matcha powder for your latte can be confusing because there’s many brands out there.

Matcha powder can come in two grades, ceremonial and culinary grades. Ceremonial is higher quality, which is also used for tea ceremonies and is better for drinking. Culinary grade is used to add to baked goods.

Prices can range between brands, so I suggest buying a ceremonial grade that fits your budget!

Quality matcha powder has a vibrant green color without any added ingredients. Look out for matcha powders or mixes that include sugar to make a fast matcha latte. I avoid these because they are usually lower quality, and I like controlling the amount of sugar and syrup flavor I use in my latte.

Matcha powder starts oxidizing once opened, so it’s best to use it within the month. This is why it’s better to buy it in small quantities. Powder that has been sitting out on your shelf for a long time will turn dull in color and may taste stale or flat as it loses it’s flavor.

I’ve purchased matcha powder in a tin and in a resealable bag. Both options have worked for me since I store all my teas in a cool, dry place and use them within the month.

These are some brands I’ve tried that I enjoy!

• Jade Leaf Matcha: This brand offers ceremonial and culinary grade versions. It has a great vibrant color and the price point is affordable which is perfect for those new to matcha.
• Naoki: This Japanese brand is ceremonial grade and offers great quality matcha. I find it to be smooth, earthy but not bitter.
• Ippodo: This is a smooth, rich matcha that creates creamy matcha lattes. It has a balanced taste and is recommended as a starter matcha for those looking to buy higher quality.

There are many brands that range in taste from sweeter, some bitter, some have more umami taste – the list is endless. To find a matcha that suits you, you have to try new brands!

What Tools Do I Need?

These tools are helpful to create a smooth and creamy matcha latte.

Fine mesh strainer: Use a strainer to get rid of clumps for a smoother drink!

Bamboo whisk (chasen) or flat whisk: A bamboo whisk has fine tips that get rid of clumps and blends/aerates matcha powder and water. Or, use a flat whisk which is a perfect shape for whisking a small amount.

Whisk holder (chasen kusenaoshi): Storing the whisk on a holder will keep it’s shape for longer and dry better. This allows you to keep your whisk for a long time!

Matcha bowl (chawan): Perfectly shaped bowl to whisk your matcha powder and water together!

Handheld frother or whisk: To add frothiness to milk, either whisk or use a handheld frother.

Tips For Making A Great Matcha Latte

If you’d like to get the smoothest, creamy flavor for your matcha latte, here are some of my tips.

1. Sift your matcha powder into the tea bowl. By sifting it, there are no clumps and no grittiness.
2. Use warm water. Hot water creates bitterness.
3. Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) that has fine tips, creates evenly whisked matcha powder and a pleasant fragrance.
4. Use whole milk for a creamier latte or coconut milk.
5. Boil your milk over the stove, whisking to create froth.
6. Add your favorite sweetener.
7. Serve and enjoy right away.

What Sweeteners Can I Add?

There are many choices when it comes to making your latte sweet. If you don’t prefer a sweetened latte, feel free to omit it!

Add honey, homemade simple syrup, sugar, maple syrup, or any other sweetener you prefer.

Matcha Latte Variations

Matcha is a much loved drink. You’ll see all different ways to prepare it and other flavors to pair it with! Check out my iced peppermint matcha latte.

RECIPE CARD