This simple matcha latte recipe creates a creamy, antioxidant-rich drink that beats any coffee shop version.
Made with just three basic ingredients, you can whip up this healthy green tea latte at home in under 5 minutes.
I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, and it never fails to deliver that perfect balance of earthy matcha flavor and silky coconut milk.
What You Need for This Matcha Latte
Creating the perfect homemade matcha latte starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Matcha powder (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) – Choose ceremonial grade for best flavor
- Hot water (1/4 cup) – Just off the boil works perfectly
- Coconut milk (1/4 cup) – Light or full-fat both work well
- Natural sweetener (optional) – Maple syrup, honey, or stevia to taste
I always keep ceremonial grade matcha in my pantry because it makes such a difference in taste.
The quality really shows in the final drink, giving you that vibrant green color and smooth flavor without bitterness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making matcha lattes became my morning ritual after trying dozens of coffee shop versions that were too sweet. Follow these simple steps:
- Sift the matcha powder to remove any lumps that could make your latte gritty
- Add matcha to your mug and pour in the hot water slowly
- Whisk vigorously using up-and-down motions (not circular) for about 30 seconds until frothy
- Warm your coconut milk in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or on the stovetop
- Pour the warm milk into your matcha mixture
- Whisk again to combine and create more froth
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed
The key trick I learned is whisking in straight lines rather than circles. This technique creates better foam and fully dissolves the matcha powder.
Tips for the Perfect Matcha Latte
After making hundreds of matcha lattes, these tips guarantee success every time:
- Always sift your matcha to prevent clumps from forming
- Use water that’s hot but not boiling to avoid making the matcha bitter
- Whisk in straight motions rather than circular patterns for better foam
- Start with less matcha and add more to taste – you can always make it stronger
- Warm your milk before adding to maintain the perfect drinking temperature
I made the mistake of using boiling water in my early attempts, which created a bitter taste that even sweetener couldn’t fix. Now I let the water cool for a minute after boiling.
Choosing the Best Matcha Powder
The matcha powder you choose makes or breaks your latte experience. Here’s what to look for:
- Ceremonial grade matcha offers the smoothest taste and brightest color
- Organic options ensure you’re getting pure, high-quality tea leaves
- Japanese origin typically provides authentic flavor profiles
- Vibrant green color indicates freshness and proper processing
- Fine texture dissolves more easily and creates better foam
I’ve tested over a dozen matcha brands, and ceremonial grade consistently delivers the best results. Culinary grade works for baking, but for lattes, invest in the good stuff.
Health Benefits of Matcha Lattes
This green tea latte packs impressive nutritional value into every sip:
- Rich in antioxidants – Contains 10 times more than regular green tea
- Natural energy boost – Provides sustained energy without coffee crashes
- Supports metabolism – L-theanine promotes fat burning
- Brain health – Amino acids enhance focus and concentration
- Heart healthy – May help lower cholesterol levels
As someone who switched from coffee to matcha lattes, I noticed more stable energy levels throughout the day without afternoon crashes.
Variations and Customizations
Make this basic recipe your own with these simple modifications:
- Iced matcha latte – Use cold milk and pour over ice
- Vanilla matcha latte – Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Protein matcha latte – Blend in vanilla protein powder
- Almond milk version – Substitute coconut milk with almond milk
- Extra frothy – Use a milk frother for cafe-style foam
My favorite variation adds a dash of vanilla and extra coconut milk for an ultra-creamy treat that feels like dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t let these common errors ruin your perfect matcha latte:
- Skipping the sifting step – Creates lumpy, gritty texture
- Using boiling water – Makes the matcha taste bitter
- Circular whisking – Doesn’t create proper foam
- Low-quality matcha – Results in dull color and poor taste
- Adding cold milk – Cools down your drink too quickly
The most frequent mistake I see people make is rushing the whisking process. Take your time to create that beautiful foam layer.
Storage and Preparation Tips
Keep your matcha fresh and your lattes perfect with these storage guidelines:
- Store matcha powder in the refrigerator in an airtight container
- Use within 6 months of opening for best flavor
- Pre-sift large batches and store in a separate container for convenience
- Make simple syrup ahead of time if you prefer liquid sweeteners
I prep my matcha station every Sunday, sifting a week’s worth and storing it in a small jar. This makes morning latte preparation super quick and easy.
This matcha latte recipe has become my go-to morning drink, replacing my daily coffee habit.
The creamy texture, earthy flavor, and sustained energy boost make it worth the five-minute preparation time every single day.
Easy 3-Ingredient Matcha Latte
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift the matcha powder through a fine mesh sieve into your mug to remove any lumps that could create a gritty texture.
- Add hot water to the sifted matcha powder in the mug. The water should be hot but not boiling (around 175°F) to prevent bitterness.
- Whisk vigorously using up-and-down or side-to-side motions (not circular) for about 30 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy and the matcha is fully dissolved.
- Warm the coconut milk in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through but not boiling.
- Pour the warm coconut milk into the frothy matcha mixture, then whisk again gently to combine and create additional foam.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding maple syrup, honey, or your preferred natural sweetener. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more as needed.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally topped with a sprinkle of matcha powder or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.