Hot Matcha Tea Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

Oh, matcha – the vibrant green powder that’s taken the world by storm! If you haven’t tried a Hot Matcha Tea Latte yet, you’re seriously missing out on one of the most delicious and health-boosting beverages out there. Think of it as the lovechild of traditional Japanese tea culture and your favorite cozy coffeehouse latte, but with a twist – matcha is packed with antioxidants, gives a gentle energy lift without the jitters, and tastes earthy, sweet, and a little grassy in the best way possible.

What makes a Hot Matcha Tea Latte so special? It’s the way the finely ground green tea leaves blend perfectly with creamy milk, creating a silky, comforting cup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re a caffeine fiend looking for a new buzz or just someone craving a tasty alternative to coffee, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

Plus, making it at home is easier than you think – no fancy equipment required! So, let’s walk through everything you need, step by step, and I’ll share some insider tips to help you master this gorgeous green drink.

Ingredients For Hot Matcha Tea Latte Recipe

Okay, first things first – you want to gather the best ingredients to get that dreamy matcha latte flavor and texture. Here’s your shopping list:

  • Matcha Powder (1 to 2 teaspoons)

    The star of the show! Look for ceremonial grade matcha if you want the freshest, most vibrant flavor. Culinary grade works too but can be a bit more bitter.

  • Milk of Your Choice (1 cup)

    Cow’s milk is classic for creaminess, but you can also use almond, oat, soy, coconut, or any other plant-based milk. Oat milk is a favorite because it froths well and has a natural sweetness.

  • Hot Water (about 2-3 tablespoons)

    This is just to whisk your matcha powder and create a smooth paste before adding milk.

  • Sweetener (optional)

    Honey, agave syrup, maple syrup, or simple sugar – it’s totally up to you! Matcha has a natural sweetness but a touch of sweetener can balance the earthiness if you like your latte sweeter.

  • Vanilla Extract (optional)

    A splash of vanilla can add a lovely warm note to your latte.

  Mango Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Optional extras to jazz it up:

  • Cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy spice twist
  • A pinch of sea salt to enhance the matcha flavor
  • Whipped cream on top for decadence

How To Make Hot Matcha Tea Latte?

Alright, now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s talk method. It’s simple but there’s a little finesse to getting that smooth, frothy latte goodness.

  1. Sift The Matcha Powder

    This step is a game-changer! Use a small sieve to sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder into your bowl or cup. This gets rid of lumps and ensures a silky drink.

  2. Add Hot Water (not Boiling!)

    Pour about 2-3 tablespoons of hot water around 175°F (80°C) into the bowl with matcha. Water that’s too hot can scorch the powder and make it bitter.

  3. Whisk Vigorously

    Using a bamboo matcha whisk (chasen) is traditional, but a small regular whisk or even an electric frother can work. Whisk in a zig-zag motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and you see a layer of fine froth on top.

  4. Heat And Froth Your Milk

    Warm your milk gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot but not boiling. Froth it using a frother or by shaking in a jar with a tight lid. Frothy milk is key for that latte texture!

  5. Combine And Sweeten

    Pour the milk into your matcha mixture slowly. Add your preferred sweetener and vanilla extract, then stir gently.

  6. Serve And Enjoy!

    If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a bit of matcha powder or cinnamon on top. Sit back and savor your beautiful, green creation!

Expert Tips

Okay, here are some pro moves that’ll take your matcha latte from ’meh’ to ’OMG, I’m a barista now’:

  • Use fresh matcha powder – matcha loses flavor quickly once opened. Store it airtight in the fridge to keep that vibrant color and taste.
  • Temperature matters! – Don’t use boiling water; it burns the delicate matcha and makes it bitter. Aim for 175°F (80°C) or just below boiling.
  • Whisk, whisk, whisk! – Proper whisking creates that foamy, creamy top that makes your latte look and feel like a treat.
  • Experiment with milk types – oat milk is silky and slightly sweet, almond milk gives a nutty flavor, and coconut milk adds tropical vibes.
  • Sweeten mindfully – Start with a little sweetener; matcha itself is naturally earthy and mildly sweet, so you might be surprised how little you actually need.
  • Invest in a bamboo whisk (chasen) – it’s cheap, traditional, and really makes a difference in frothing and blending matcha powder.

Recipe Variations

Love mixing things up? Here are some delicious spins on the classic Hot Matcha Latte:

  • Iced Matcha Latte – Whisk matcha with cold water, add ice cubes, and pour over cold milk for a refreshing summer twist.
  • Vanilla Matcha Latte – Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a smooth, fragrant drink.
  • Matcha Chai Latte – Brew some chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger) with your milk before combining with matcha.
  • Coconut Matcha Latte – Use coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical vibe.
  • Mocha Matcha Latte – Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey matcha delight.
  • Turmeric Matcha Latte – A pinch of turmeric adds an earthy warmth and an extra health boost.
  Cinnamon Iced Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Final Words

Matcha lattes are not just a drink, they’re a ritual – a moment of calm and joy wrapped in vibrant green goodness. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening (decaf versions work too!), this drink brings a sense of balance and wellness to your routine.

It’s beautiful, it’s delicious, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home once you know the tricks. Plus, the health benefits like antioxidants, metabolism boosts, and gentle energy spikes are just icing on the cake.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make A Hot Matcha Tea Latte?

To make a hot matcha tea latte, you’ll need matcha powder, milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy milk), water, and sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute).

How Much Matcha Powder Should I Use For A Hot Matcha Latte?

Typically, 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 2 to 4 grams) of matcha powder is used for a single serving of a hot matcha latte, depending on how strong you want the flavor.

Can I Make A Hot Matcha Tea Latte With Almond Milk?

Yes, almond milk works perfectly in a matcha latte. It gives the drink a slightly nutty flavor and a smooth texture, making it a popular choice for those looking for a dairy-free option.

Do I Need To Whisk The Matcha Powder Before Adding It To The Milk?

Yes, it’s important to whisk the matcha powder with a small amount of hot water (about 2 oz) to create a smooth, lump-free matcha paste. This ensures the powder is fully dissolved and doesn’t form clumps in the latte.

Can I Use A Milk Frother For A Hot Matcha Latte?

Absolutely! A milk frother can be used to froth the milk, which gives your hot matcha latte a creamy, velvety texture. After frothing, simply pour the milk over the matcha mixture.

What Temperature Should The Water Be For Making Matcha Tea?

The water should be around 170°F to 180°F (77°C to 82°C). Water that is too hot can cause the matcha to become bitter, so it’s best to avoid boiling water.

What Sweeteners Can I Use For A Hot Matcha Latte?

Common sweeteners for a hot matcha latte include honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or stevia. You can adjust the amount depending on your preferred sweetness level.

Can I Make A Hot Matcha Latte Without A Whisk?

If you don’t have a traditional bamboo whisk (chasen), you can use a small regular whisk, a milk frother, or even a small handheld blender to mix the matcha powder into a smooth paste.

How Can I Make A Hot Matcha Latte Without Milk?

You can substitute milk with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, oat milk, or even water for a lighter version. For a thicker consistency without milk, you could try adding a small amount of coconut cream or cashew cream.

How Do I Store Leftover Matcha Powder?

Matcha powder should be stored in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keeping it in a cool, dark place (like the fridge) can help maintain its freshness and vibrant green color for longer periods.