Creamy Homemade Matcha Latte Recipe

Wondering how to make a matcha latte? This signature matcha latte recipe uses just matcha powder, hot water, steamed milk, and maple syrup to create a smooth, comforting drink that works as a caffeine substitute for an espresso-based latte. It’s naturally sweetened and easy to make dairy-free with your favorite plant-based milk.

What is matcha?

Matcha is finely ground green tea leaves that form a vibrant green powder. Because you consume the whole leaf when drinking matcha, it delivers a concentrated source of antioxidants, including catechins such as EGCG, and contains caffeine. Many people enjoy matcha in the morning for its gentle, sustained energy boost and healthful antioxidants.

Is there caffeine in matcha?

Yes — matcha contains caffeine, though a typical serving usually has less caffeine than a standard 8-oz cup of coffee. The caffeine content varies by powder and serving size.

What is a matcha latte?

A matcha latte combines dissolved matcha powder with steamed milk, producing a creamy, slightly sweet beverage. Traditionally the powder is whisked in a small amount of hot water to remove lumps, then topped with steamed or frothed milk.

What does matcha taste like?

Matcha has a smooth, earthy flavor with a mild bitterness balanced by a natural, subtle sweetness. The quality and grade of the powder influence the intensity and nuance of the taste.

Best matcha powder for a latte

Choose a ceremonial or culinary grade matcha that is bright green and finely ground. Ceremonial-grade matcha tends to be smoother and sweeter, while culinary grade can work well in lattes if you prefer a more robust flavor. One brand many home cooks enjoy is Matchabar, a ceremonial-grade product sourced from Japan — however, any fresh, high-quality matcha will improve the final drink.

Ingredients needed

These are the simple ingredients for a basic matcha latte:

1. Matcha powder: Use about 1 teaspoon per 6–8 oz of milk. A little matcha goes a long way.
2. Hot water: A tablespoon or two of hot (not boiling) water to dissolve the matcha.
3. Steamed milk: About ¾ cup. Oat and almond milk steam nicely, but any milk works.
4. Sweetener: Maple syrup is a warm, plant-based choice. Honey, agave, or another liquid sweetener also work.

Kitchen tools needed

You don’t need specialized equipment to make a great matcha latte. A traditional bamboo whisk is helpful, but a small regular whisk, a handheld milk frother, or even a mason jar you can shake will dissolve matcha effectively and create froth. If you plan to steam milk, a milk steamer or an electric milk frother is convenient.

How to make a matcha latte (three simple steps)

This recipe takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.

1. Dissolve the matcha: Put 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into the bottom of a mug. Add 1–2 tablespoons of hot water (around 175°F / 80°C is ideal) and whisk until the matcha is smooth and free of lumps.
2. Steam or froth the milk: Combine ¾ cup milk and 1–1½ tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste). Steam or heat gently until warm and frothy. Avoid boiling the milk to prevent a scorched flavor.
3. Combine and serve: Pour the steamed milk into the dissolved matcha, stirring or holding back foam as desired to create a layered look. Top with foam and enjoy immediately.

Recipe

Servings: 1 • Prep time: 10 mins • Total time: 10 mins

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1 tablespoon hot water
• ¾ cup steamed milk (any kind)
• 1–1½ tablespoons maple syrup, to taste

Instructions

1. Add matcha powder to the bottom of a mug and pour in the hot water. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Froth or steam the milk together with maple syrup. If using a stovetop, warm the milk gently and then froth with a hand frother. Do not boil.
3. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the matcha mixture, stirring gently to combine. Top with foam and serve warm.

Tips & notes

• Make sure the matcha fully dissolves in the water before adding milk to avoid clumps. If needed, add a little more hot water and whisk longer.
• Adjust sweetener to taste—start with less and add more if desired.
• Use freshly opened matcha stored in a cool, dark place for the best flavor and color.

Nutrition (approximate)

Calories: 103 kcal • Carbohydrates: 20 g • Protein: 1 g • Fat: 2 g • Fiber: 1 g • Sugar: 16 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

More matcha recipe ideas

• Iced matcha latte
• Matcha waffles
• Banana matcha smoothie

Photography by: The Wooden Skillet