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.
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.
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.
A splash of vanilla can add a lovely warm note to your latte.
Optional extras to jazz it up:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Pour the milk into your matcha mixture slowly. Add your preferred sweetener and vanilla extract, then stir gently.
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a bit of matcha powder or cinnamon on top. Sit back and savor your beautiful, green creation!
Okay, here are some pro moves that’ll take your matcha latte from ’meh’ to ’OMG, I’m a barista now’:
Love mixing things up? Here are some delicious spins on the classic Hot Matcha Latte:
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.