Iced Matcha Latte Recipe (Better Than Starbucks)
If you’ve ever ordered an iced matcha latte from Starbucks, you already know it’s creamy, refreshing, and the perfect little luxury. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to spend $6 (or more) every time you crave one.
Making an iced matcha latte at home is not only faster and cheaper, it’s also better for you because you can control the sweetness, the type of milk, and the quality of the matcha powder. Plus, it only takes about 5 minutes — which is less time than it takes to stand in line at a coffee shop.
This recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and easily customizable. Once you make it, you’ll see why so many people (myself included) have switched from coffee shop lattes to this quick homemade version.
Ingredients
- 1–2 teaspoons matcha powder (ceremonial grade for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup milk of choice (oat, almond, coconut, or dairy)
- 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Sift the matcha into a small bowl or cup. This step helps prevent clumps.
- Add hot water (not boiling — aim for about 175°F/80°C). Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy. A bamboo whisk works best, but you can also use a milk frother or small whisk.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in your milk of choice.
- Pour the matcha mixture over the milk.
- Sweeten to taste, stir, and enjoy your café-style iced matcha latte at home!
Variations
- Vanilla Iced Matcha Latte – add 1 teaspoon of vanilla syrup or vanilla extract.
- Coconut Matcha Latte – use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Peppermint Matcha Latte – add a drop of peppermint extract for a holiday vibe.
- Blended Matcha Frappe – blend everything with extra ice for a frozen version.
- Strawberry Matcha Latte – layer strawberry puree at the bottom for a gorgeous two-tone drink.
Tips for the Best Iced Matcha Latte
- Sift your matcha powder – it really makes a difference in texture.
- Use cold milk – the colder the milk, the creamier and more refreshing the latte.
- Don’t skip the whisking step – it helps dissolve the powder completely.
- Experiment with sweetness – Starbucks drinks are very sweet; you might like yours with just a touch of honey.
- Glassware matters – a tall clear glass makes your latte extra Pinterest-worthy.
Why Make Iced Matcha Latte at Home?
There are a few reasons I started making matcha lattes myself instead of grabbing them at Starbucks:
- Save money – a tin of good matcha lasts weeks and costs less than two Starbucks drinks.
- Better taste – you can use higher-quality matcha for a smoother, less bitter flavor.
- Healthier ingredients – no hidden syrups or extra sugar, unless you add it yourself.
- Customizable – oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, dairy — it’s your choice.
- Fun ritual – whisking matcha in the morning feels grounding and intentional.
It’s not just a drink — it’s a little self-care moment in your day.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with nutrients. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Gentle Energy Boost – Matcha contains caffeine, but thanks to the amino acid L-theanine, it gives a calm, steady energy (no jitters or crash).
- Rich in Antioxidants – Matcha has a high concentration of catechins, which fight oxidative stress and help your body stay balanced.
- Supports Focus – The L-theanine in matcha promotes alertness while also encouraging relaxation.
- May Boost Metabolism – Some studies suggest green tea can help support metabolism and fat burning.
- Aesthetic & Fun – Okay, this one’s not health-related — but the bright green color is so pretty it makes every drink feel special.
FAQs
What’s the difference between ceremonial and culinary matcha? Ceremonial grade is smoother, more vibrant, and best for drinking. Culinary grade is usually more bitter and often used for baking. For lattes, ceremonial grade is worth it.
Can I make this hot instead of iced? Yes! Just skip the ice and warm your milk before pouring it over the whisked matcha.
How much caffeine is in an iced matcha latte? About 70 mg per teaspoon of matcha — similar to a cup of green tea, but with steadier energy than coffee.
How long can I store it? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the matcha-water mixture ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a day. Just pour over milk and ice when ready.
