Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

Iced Matcha Latte Recipe (Better Than Starbucks and So Easy to Make at Home)

If you’ve ever paid $6 for an iced matcha latte and thought, “There’s no way this is that hard to make,” you’re absolutely right. Making a creamy, refreshing Iced Matcha Latte at home is not only easy—it’s also way more affordable and customizable. Plus, when you make it yourself, you control the sweetness, the milk, and the matcha quality.

This recipe is my go-to when I want something energizing but not jittery. It’s the perfect mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up that feels a little fancy but takes less than 5 minutes to whip up. Whether you’re a matcha newbie or a long-time green tea lover, you’re going to want to keep this recipe on repeat.

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Why You’ll Love This Iced Matcha Latte

  • Refreshing, creamy, and lightly sweet
  • Just 3 ingredients plus water and ice
  • No fancy equipment needed
  • Cheaper and healthier than the coffee shop version
  • Perfect for summer sipping or year-round enjoyment

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon ceremonial or culinary grade matcha powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling—around 175°F)
  • 3/4 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, soy, etc.)
  • 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Ice
Serving Size: 1Prep Time: 3 minutesCook Time: 0 minutesTotal Time: 3 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the matcha

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with the hot water until smooth and frothy. You can use a bamboo whisk (traditional) or a milk frother, handheld electric whisk, or even a small jar with a lid—just shake well.

Step 2: Add sweetener

Stir in maple syrup, honey, or your sweetener of choice if using. Matcha has a naturally earthy, slightly bitter taste, so sweetening is optional but recommended if you’re new to it.

Step 3: Assemble the drink

Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the milk, then gently pour the whisked matcha mixture over the top. Stir to combine or leave it layered for that pretty green-on-white look.

Step 4: Sip and enjoy

Serve immediately with a straw or long spoon. Enjoy that café-level experience without leaving your kitchen.

Tips for the Best Iced Matcha Latte

  • Use good matcha. Ceremonial grade gives you a smoother, brighter flavor and vibrant color, but culinary grade works well if you’re mixing with milk and sweetener.
  • Avoid clumps. Always sift your matcha or whisk thoroughly to avoid gritty lumps.
  • Use cold milk. It keeps the drink refreshing and helps the ice last longer.
  • Sweeten to your taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed—some prefer it unsweetened, while others like it closer to a dessert.
  • Make it fancy. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even collagen powder for a boost.

Variations to Try

There’s a matcha latte for everyone. Here are a few ways to mix things up:

  • Vanilla Matcha Latte: Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to the milk.
  • Coconut Matcha Latte: Use canned coconut milk for a super creamy tropical twist.
  • Matcha Protein Latte: Stir in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder.
  • Mocha Matcha Latte: Mix in a teaspoon of cocoa powder and a dash of sweetener for a green tea-meets-hot-chocolate vibe.
  • Matcha Lemonade: Instead of milk, mix the matcha with lemonade and pour over ice for a bright, citrusy twist.
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FAQs About Iced Matcha Lattes

What’s the difference between ceremonial and culinary matcha?
Ceremonial matcha is made from the youngest tea leaves and has a smoother, sweeter flavor. It’s ideal for drinking straight or in lattes. Culinary matcha is more robust and slightly bitter—great for baking or mixing with milk and sweeteners.

Do I need a bamboo whisk (chasen)?
It’s traditional, but not necessary. You can use a milk frother, blender, or just shake everything in a sealed jar. The key is dissolving the matcha fully for a smooth drink.

Is matcha high in caffeine?
It has about 60–70mg of caffeine per serving—less than coffee but enough to give you a focused energy boost without the crash.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the matcha and mix the latte ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Is matcha healthy?
Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, especially EGCG, and contains L-theanine, which helps promote calm focus. Just go easy on the sweeteners to keep it healthy.

Related Post: The Best Homemade Oreo Milkshake Recipe

Final Thoughts

This Iced Matcha Latte recipe is the perfect balance of earthy, creamy, and refreshing. Whether you’re swapping out your morning coffee or just looking for something new to sip on during a warm afternoon, this latte is the kind of simple pleasure you can feel good about.

Once you try it at home, you’ll see just how easy (and delicious) it is to make your own café-style matcha without the price tag or mystery syrups.