Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte Recipe [+Tips]

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Okay, let’s talk about matcha. That dreamy, creamy, earthy green elixir that’s become a staple at coffee shops and kitchens all around the world. Whether you’ve seen it on your Instagram feed or have already become a full-on matcha devotee, there’s something so incredibly comforting and energizing about a good Matcha Tea Latte. Now, what if I told you that you could skip the long coffee shop lines and whip up your own café-worthy matcha latte at home using only Trader Joe’s ingredients? Oh yes, friend-it’s possible, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Trader Joe’s, that treasure trove of affordable and quirky finds, actually has everything you need to make your own Matcha Tea Latte. You don’t need a fancy bamboo whisk (unless you want to be extra), and you don’t need to take out a second mortgage for ceremonial grade matcha. It’s easy, it’s fast, and it’s actually a super fun little ritual once you get into it.

So grab your favorite mug, cozy up, and let’s make the best homemade matcha latte of your life!

Ingredients For Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte Recipe

Let’s break down exactly what you need, and spoiler alert-every single one of these items can be found at Trader Joe’s!

The Essentials

  • Trader Joe’s Matcha Green Tea Powder (Unsweetened)

    This is your star ingredient! It comes in a slim green tin and is perfect for making lattes. It’s not ceremonial grade, but for the price and quality? Chef’s kiss.

  • Milk Of Choice

    You can go dairy or non-dairy-Trader Joe’s has a ridiculous selection:

    • Almond Beverage (vanilla or plain)
    • Oat Beverage (my personal fave-hello creamy!)
    • Coconut Beverage (great for a tropical twist)
    • Organic Whole Milk (if you’re feeling classic)
  • Sweetener (Optional, But Who Are We Kidding?)

    Pick your poison, sugarplum:

    • Organic Maple Syrup
    • Organic Agave
    • Honey (raw or clover)
    • Vanilla Bean Paste (just a dab for flavor AND sweetness)
    • Brown Sugar or Coconut Sugar
  • Hot Water

    Not technically a TJ’s product, but hey, you’ve got a kettle, right?

  Latte Recipe [+Tips]

How To Make Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte?

Now comes the fun part! Here’s your step-by-step journey to green glory. You can do this in your pajamas with one eye open-it’s that easy.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • A mug or heatproof glass
  • A spoon or mini whisk (bonus points for a handheld milk frother!)
  • A small bowl (for mixing matcha, optional but helpful)
  • A kettle or way to heat water/milk

‍ Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sift Your Matcha (Optional But Recommended)

    Use a small mesh strainer to sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha into a bowl or mug. This breaks up clumps and makes your latte ultra smooth.

  2. Mix With Hot Water

    Add 2 tablespoons of hot (but not boiling) water to the matcha. Ideal temp? Around 175°F. Stir or whisk vigorously in a zig-zag motion until the powder is fully dissolved and frothy.

  3. Sweeten To Taste

    Add your choice of sweetener and mix well. I usually go with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup-just enough to complement the matcha’s earthiness.

  4. Heat And Froth Your Milk

    Heat 3/4 cup of your milk of choice on the stove or microwave until warm, not boiling. If you’ve got a milk frother? Froth it like there’s no tomorrow. If not, a quick whisk works just fine.

  5. Combine & Sip

    Pour the warm, frothed milk over your matcha mixture. Stir gently, take a deep breath, and enjoy that first magical sip.

Expert Tips

Oh, you want to level up? I’ve got you. Making matcha at home is all about personalizing and perfecting. Here’s how to make every cup just a little more fabulous:

  • Always sift your matcha to avoid bitterness and clumps.
  • Use water that’s hot, not boiling – boiling water can scorch the matcha and make it taste bitter.
  • Try a milk frother – seriously, these little gadgets are game-changers and only cost about $10.
  • Double up on matcha if you need a stronger caffeine hit-one teaspoon has roughly 70mg of caffeine!
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
  • Prep a matcha concentrate ahead – whisk matcha and water, store in the fridge, and just add milk when ready.

Recipe Variations

Want to spice things up? Literally? Here are some super fun ways to remix your Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte into a custom creation:

  • Iced Matcha Latte

    Skip the steaming and pour the matcha over ice. Use cold frothed milk. Refreshing and perfect for summer!

  • Matcha Vanilla Bean Latte

    Add 1/2 tsp of Trader Joe’s Vanilla Bean Paste for an aromatic, dessert-like twist.

  • Matcha Chai Fusion

    Combine matcha with a bit of brewed chai concentrate or chai spice blend. It’s a little spicy, a little earthy-SO good.

  • Matcha Mocha

    Add 1 tsp of Trader Joe’s Organic Cocoa Powder and sweeten with maple syrup. Hello, chocolate green goddess!

  • Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte (Seasonal Fave!)

    Add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin spice blend. Autumn in a mug. Thank me later.

  • Frozen Matcha Smoothie

    Blend matcha, almond milk, a frozen banana, a handful of spinach (trust me), and sweetener. It’s like health in a cup, but make it tasty.

Final Words

Making a Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte at home is one of those little joys that’s affordable, customizable, and honestly pretty meditative. There’s just something satisfying about whisking that vibrant green powder, heating your milk just right, and curling up with a homemade drink that tastes like it came from a trendy café-but for like, a fraction of the cost.

  Moringa Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Plus, once you master the basics, it’s a whole world of flavors and combinations just waiting to be explored. You’ll never be bored, and you’ll always have something to offer your friends when they stop by-matcha makes an excellent conversation starter, by the way.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte At Home?

To make Trader Joe’s matcha tea latte at home, you need Trader Joe’s matcha green tea powder, milk or a milk alternative (such as almond, oat, or soy milk), hot water, and optional sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or sugar.

How Do I Prepare Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte?

Start by whisking 1-2 teaspoons of Trader Joe’s matcha powder with a small amount of hot water (not boiling, about 175°F) until smooth and frothy. Heat 8 ounces of milk or milk alternative, then combine with the matcha mixture. Sweeten to taste and stir well before serving.

Can I Use Cold Milk To Make A Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte?

Yes, you can prepare an iced version by whisking the matcha powder with a small amount of water, then pouring it over cold milk and ice cubes. Sweeten if desired and stir thoroughly.

Is Trader Joe’s Matcha Powder Organic And High Quality?

Trader Joe’s matcha powder is sourced with attention to quality and is typically ceremonial grade, suitable for lattes and other beverages. However, it may not always be certified organic, so check the packaging for specific details.

How Much Matcha Powder Should I Use For One Latte?

Typically, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of Trader Joe’s matcha powder per latte, depending on how strong and vibrant you want the flavor.

Can I Substitute Regular Milk With Plant-based Milk In The Matcha Latte Recipe?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk work well and can add unique flavors to your matcha latte. Adjust sweetness as needed.

What Is The Best Way To Whisk Trader Joe’s Matcha Powder To Avoid Clumps?

Use a bamboo matcha whisk (chasen) or a small electric frother. Whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until the matcha is smooth and frothy, with no visible clumps.

How Can I Sweeten My Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte Naturally?

Natural sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, maple syrup, or stevia can be added to taste. Add the sweetener after whisking the matcha and milk together.

Can I Make A Vegan Trader Joe’s Matcha Tea Latte?

Absolutely. Use any plant-based milk and a vegan-friendly sweetener. Trader Joe’s matcha powder itself is vegan.

How Should I Store Trader Joe’s Matcha Powder To Maintain Freshness?

Store matcha powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, preferably in the refrigerator. Avoid moisture and exposure to air or light to keep it fresh and vibrant.