Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte Recipe

There’s nothing quite as refreshing, creamy, and visually striking as an Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte. Whether you’re chasing a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or just want to enjoy a beautiful, layered drink at home, this recipe is a total game changer. With vibrant green matcha whisked to silky perfection, ice-cold milk, and a touch of sweetness, each sip tastes like a gentle hug from your favorite café. And the best part? It comes together in just a few minutes, with flavors that shine and a color that’s downright Instagrammable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte comes from just a handful of simple but high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a unique role, from the grassy aroma of matcha to the creaminess of your preferred milk. Don’t skip the small details—they make all the difference for taste, texture, and that signature emerald hue.

• Matcha Green Tea Powder: Use ceremonial or high-quality culinary matcha for a vibrant green color and smooth, non-bitter flavor.
• Hot Water (not boiling): Warm water (about 175°F or 80°C) helps dissolve and activate the matcha without turning it bitter.
• Milk of Choice (dairy, almond, oat, or soy): Pick your favorite; each milk offers a subtle twist, but all give that creamy base we love in a latte.
• Honey, Maple Syrup, or Simple Syrup: This touch of sweetness balances the earthy matcha and can be adjusted to taste—or left out entirely for purists!
• Ice Cubes: Essential for that frosty, refreshing chill and to create beautiful, swirling layers.

How to Make Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte

Step 1: Whisk the Matcha

In a small bowl, combine your teaspoon of matcha green tea powder with two tablespoons of hot, but not boiling, water. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small regular whisk, briskly whisk in a zig-zag motion until you have a smooth, frothy liquid with no visible clumps. Taking the time to whisk thoroughly really lets the matcha’s bright green color and creamy texture shine.

Step 2: Prepare Your Glass

Grab your favorite glass and drop in half a cup of fresh ice cubes. The ice cools the drink instantly and gives it that classic, café-style look. If you love your drink extra cold, don’t be shy about adding a couple more cubes!

Step 3: Add Milk and Sweetener

Pour one cup of milk—dairy, almond, oat, or soy—over the ice. Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of your chosen sweetener: honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup all work beautifully here. Taste as you go; some like it subtle, others more decadent. This is your canvas!

Step 4: Pour the Matcha Over the Milk

Now comes the fun part: slowly pour your whisked matcha mixture over the sweetened milk and ice. For that iconic layered effect, go slow, letting the matcha gently float atop the milk. If you want an even green drink, simply give everything a good stir until beautifully blended.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately

Pop in a straw, give it a swirl if you’d like, and sip away! Freshness is key, so enjoy your Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte right away while the flavors and colors are at their brightest.

How to Serve Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte

Garnishes

Upgrade your latte with thoughtful garnishes: a sprinkle of extra matcha powder over the foam, a twist of lemon zest for brightness, or even a few dried rose petals for a fancy touch. Each option brings something special and transforms a simple Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte into a café-worthy creation.

Side Dishes

Pair your Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte with light pastries like almond biscotti, shortbread cookies, or fluffy Japanese pancakes. If you’re leaning savory, a simple avocado toast or egg salad sandwich complements the latte’s grassy notes without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation by serving your latte in clear glass jars or tall tumblers to showcase those gorgeous green layers. Try using large, slow-melting ice cubes, or sprinkle matcha in a decorative pattern on top. For brunch spreads, line up a few lattes on a wooden board with edible flowers for an impressive display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte, transfer it to an airtight jar or bottle and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick shake or stir before serving, as the matcha might settle at the bottom. The flavor stays lovely, but the vibrant green may slightly mellow.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t the ideal way to store this latte, but if you want an extra-frosty treat, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Blend the frozen cubes with a splash of milk for a quick matcha slushie—delicious and refreshing on summer days!

Reheating

Since this drink is meant to be enjoyed cold, reheating isn’t recommended. If your pre-made latte has been chilling in the fridge, just give it a shake and serve over fresh ice to revive its frosty texture and even green color.

FAQs

What kind of matcha should I use for Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte?

For the best flavor and color, opt for ceremonial grade or high-quality culinary matcha. Lower quality matcha can taste bitter or appear dull when mixed with milk and ice.

Can I make an Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte without a whisk?

Yes! While a traditional bamboo whisk creates the smoothest froth, a small kitchen whisk or even a milk frother works well. Sift the matcha first to help it dissolve quickly and avoid clumps.

Is there a way to make this latte vegan?

Absolutely. Use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy, and choose maple syrup or simple syrup as your sweetener. The result is a completely vegan Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte with all the creamy goodness you crave.

How can I make the latte sweeter or less sweet?

This recipe is entirely customizable. Start with a smaller amount of sweetener, then taste your latte. Add more in small increments until it’s just right for your personal preference.

Can I blend the Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte?

Definitely! For a delightfully frothy, frappe-style drink, simply blend all the ingredients (matcha, milk, sweetener, and ice) until smooth. It creates a creamy, almost milkshake-like texture that’s perfect for hot days.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up an Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte at home really couldn’t be easier—or more rewarding. This beautiful beverage is endlessly customizable and always impressive, whether you keep it classic or add your own creative touches. Grab some good matcha and treat yourself to café vibes wherever you are!

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