Green Matcha Latte Almond Milk

I stumbled upon matcha lattes quite by accident one blustery autumn morning, seeking warmth in a new cafe. The vibrant green liquid, so unlike my usual coffee, intrigued me instantly. The first sip was an unexpected journey—earthy, creamy, and gently energizing, a perfect hug for a chilly day. It quickly became my go-to for a mindful start.

There was this one time I was trying to explain the magic of matcha to my coffee-loving aunt, who was deeply skeptical. I made her one right in front of her, the whisking sound filling the kitchen, and her eyes widened with each step. When she finally took a sip, her 'Hmm, this is actually quite good' was the highest praise I could have hoped for, especially from someone so set in her ways.

Ingredients

• High-quality matcha green tea powder: Investing in a good ceremonial or latte-grade matcha makes all the difference in flavor and vibrancy.
• Hot (not boiling) water (about 80°C / 175°F): Water that's too hot can scorch the delicate matcha, leading to a bitter taste.
• Unsweetened almond milk: Its subtle nuttiness complements the matcha beautifully without overpowering it.
• Maple syrup or agave syrup (optional, to taste): A touch of natural sweetness can balance the earthiness, but feel free to skip it for a purist's latte.
• Pure vanilla extract (optional): Just a hint of vanilla adds a wonderful depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.

Instructions

Prepare Your Matcha Base:

Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to prevent any pesky lumps from ruining your smooth sip. Add the perfectly heated water and whisk vigorously with your bamboo whisk or a small regular one until it's fully dissolved and a light froth appears.

Warm and Sweeten the Milk:

In a small saucepan, gently heat the almond milk over medium heat until it's steaming nicely, but definitely don't let it boil. Stir in your chosen maple syrup and vanilla extract now if you're using them.

Get That Foam Going:

Now for the fun part! Use a milk frother, or just vigorously whisk the heated almond milk until you achieve a lovely, airy foam.

Combine and Enjoy:

Pour your vibrant matcha mixture into your favorite mug. Slowly add the steamed almond milk, holding back the foam with a spoon so you can gently dollop it on top. Give it a gentle swirl, taste for sweetness, and serve immediately.

Save

I started making these for my partner every Friday morning as a little treat to kick off the weekend, a small gesture that soon became our cherished ritual. The quiet moments shared over steaming mugs, watching the world wake up, transformed this simple drink into a symbol of our connection and calm before the rush of the day.

The Art of the Whisk

When whisking the matcha, imagine you're drawing a fast 'M' or 'W' pattern in the bowl, not just stirring in circles. This technique helps to create that beautiful, smooth froth and ensures the powder is fully incorporated. Don't be afraid to put a little elbow grease into it; the more air you get in, the better.

Sweetness & Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. While I adore almond milk, I've had fantastic results with oat milk for an even creamier texture or soy milk for a protein boost. And for sweetness, sometimes I use a date syrup, or simply let the natural, slightly sweet notes of the matcha shine through on its own. Experimentation is key to finding your perfect blend.

Making it Iced & Presentation

For those warmer days, simply use cold almond milk and pour the finished latte over a generous amount of ice for a refreshing twist. A tall glass really shows off the beautiful layers. A sprinkle of matcha powder or a tiny edible flower on top can elevate it from a simple drink to a cafe-worthy creation.

• Always use a wide-mouthed mug for the best whisking experience.
• Consider warming your mug beforehand to keep your latte hot longer.
• Don't overfill your mug; leave space for that lovely foam.

Save

This green matcha latte is more than just a drink; it's a moment of calm, a gentle boost, and a delicious way to embrace a mindful pause in your day. I hope it brings as much joy to your mornings as it has to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of matcha powder should I use?

For the best flavor and vibrant green color, use a high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha green tea powder. This ensures a smooth, less bitter taste.

→ Can I use other plant-based milks?

Absolutely! Oat milk or soy milk are excellent alternatives to almond milk. They both froth well and contribute a creamy texture to the beverage.

→ How do I prepare an iced version?

To make an iced matcha latte, simply use cold unsweetened almond milk instead of heating it. Whisk the matcha as usual, then combine with cold milk and pour over ice. You can still add sweetener and vanilla if desired.

→ What's the best way to froth the almond milk?

A dedicated milk frother provides the best results for a luxurious foam. However, you can also vigorously whisk the warmed milk in a saucepan or use a hand-held immersion blender for a similar effect.

→ Why is the water not boiling for the matcha?

Using water that is too hot (boiling) can scorch the delicate matcha powder, leading to a bitter or grassy taste. Aim for water around 80°C (175°F) for optimal flavor extraction.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, the amount of maple syrup or agave syrup is entirely to taste. You can omit it completely for an unsweetened drink or add more for a sweeter profile.