Name: Iced Matcha Latte
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 tsp matcha green tea powder; 2 tbsp hot water; 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional); 3/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1/2 cup ice cubes

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Short description

A refreshing, lightly caffeinated beverage blending the vibrant green flavor of matcha with creamy milk, served cold over ice—a delightful alternative to your typical iced coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This iced matcha latte is simple to prepare yet feels indulgent and café-worthy. It balances subtle earthy matcha, smooth milk, and optional sweet notes—perfect for a gentle energy boost that won’t leave you jittery. Customize with your favorite plant-based or dairy milk and sweetener to suit your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

matcha powder (1 to 2 teaspoons, depending on preference)
hot (but not boiling) water (about 2 tablespoons to ¼ cup)
ice cubes
milk of choice (dairy or plant‑based; approximately ¾ to 1 cup)
sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, simple syrup, etc.; optional)

directions

Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl or cup to remove clumps.
Add the hot (not boiling) water and whisk vigorously in a zigzag motion until the matcha dissolves and a light froth forms.
Fill a glass with ice.
Pour the prepared matcha mixture over the ice.
Top with your milk of choice and stir gently.
If desired, add sweetener to taste and stir again.
Serve immediately and enjoy the swirled, creamy layers.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 1 serving (for 2 servings, double the amounts).
Prep time: Approximately 5 minutes.
Total time: Around 5 minutes—perfectly quick for busy mornings or an afternoon pick‑me‑up.

Variations

Strawberry Matcha: Blend fresh strawberries with a little sugar, pour over ice, then layer the matcha and milk for a fruit‑infused twist.
Lavender Matcha: Add lavender syrup when whisking matcha for a fragrant floral note.
Coconut Matcha Latte: Use coconut milk for a richer, tropical flavor, and optionally sweeten with honey or agave.
Cloud Matcha: Whip matcha with cream or a dairy-free alternative until fluffy, then layer atop the iced latte for an Instagram‑worthy cloud effect.

storage/reheating

This iced matcha latte is best enjoyed fresh—but if needed, you can store the matcha‑milk mixture (separately from ice) in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Shake or stir well before serving, as separation may occur. Avoid freezing or reheating, as the texture and flavor may degrade.

FAQs

What type of matcha powder should I use?

Use a fine-quality, bright-green matcha—ceremonial grade is ideal, though culinary grade designed for lattes also works well when mixed with milk.

Can I skip sifting the matcha?

Sifting helps avoid clumps and ensures a smoother drink—but if you’re in a hurry, whisk vigorously or use a blender to dissolve the powder.

Is boiling water okay for whisking matcha?

No—boiling water can scorch the matcha and make it bitter. Use just‑boiled water that has cooled slightly (around 175°F or 80°C is best).

What are good milk alternatives?

Oat, soy, almond, cashew, or regular dairy milk all work. Soy and oat milks are popular for their creamy texture and compatibility with matcha.

How do I make it frothy without a whisk?

Shake matcha and hot water vigorously in a sealed jar or use a milk frother or blender to achieve smoothness and light froth.

Can I prepare the matcha ahead of time?

Yes—prepare the matcha concentrate ahead and chill it. Combine with cold milk and ice when ready to serve.

Can I make it more caffeinated?

Increase the matcha amount slightly (e.g., up to 2 teaspoons) for a bolder flavor and caffeine boost—just adjust sweetener to balance potential bitterness.

Is it healthier than coffee?

Matcha offers a gentler caffeine lift and contains antioxidants and L‑theanine, which promote focus without a crash. Healthfulness depends on added sweeteners and milk, so lighter choices help retain benefits.

Can I make a large batch?

Absolutely—scale ingredients proportionally, prepare in a pitcher, store chilled, and pour over ice as needed.

What’s “cloud matcha”?

A trend where matcha is whipped into a fluffy foam (like cloud coffee) and layered atop the iced latte for a visually striking and creamy finish.

Conclusion

This iced matcha latte is a beautifully simple, customizable drink that elevates your everyday routine with vivid color, gentle energy, and rich flavor. Whether you enjoy it classic, fruity, floral, or whimsical, it’s a refreshing, delightful choice any time of day.