There’s something incredibly comforting about recreating your favorite café drinks at home. Whether it’s a cozy fall latte or an iced drink on a warm afternoon, homemade versions feel more personal, more customizable, and often more satisfying. One of my go-to beverages—especially during warm weather or when I want a gentler pick-me-up—is an Iced Matcha Latte .
If you usually grab yours from your local café or a big coffee chain, this simple recipe might just become your new obsession. It’s creamy, refreshing, mildly earthy, and perfectly balanced. Even better, it requires only a few basic ingredients and comes together in minutes.
This drink is also ideal for those moments around mid-afternoon when energy levels start to drop. If coffee hits you too hard or keeps you awake at night, matcha offers a smoother boost thanks to L-theanine, which promotes calm focus. That’s why this Iced Matcha Latte (Focus Keyword) has become my go-to drink when I need something uplifting but not overstimulating.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. Instead of steeping, the leaves are stone-ground and consumed entirely, which gives matcha its signature vibrant color, concentrated flavor, and natural antioxidants.
High-quality matcha typically comes from Japan, most famously from Kyoto and Uji. Its flavor ranges from grassy and earthy to delicate and slightly sweet depending on grade.
Because matcha dissolves into water rather than being steeped, it creates a smooth, frothy drink that’s incredibly versatile—perfect for lattes, smoothies, baked goods, and more.
Why This Iced Matcha Latte Works
This recipe is intentionally simple. It’s designed to mimic that ultra-satisfying coffee shop version: cold, creamy, and perfectly blended.
A few key steps make all the difference:
- Dissolving matcha properly so it’s smooth and not grainy
- Cooling the mixture before assembling the drink
- Using your preferred milk for the perfect texture
- Adding sweetener only if you like (just like ordering at a coffee shop)
You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to achieve that same café quality at home.
How to Make an Iced Matcha Latte
STEP 1: Combine Matcha and Hot Water
Start by adding a couple teaspoons of matcha powder to a small bowl or measuring cup. Pour in a tablespoon or two of very hot water—just enough to create a smooth paste.
Using a matcha whisk or small hand whisk, blend until completely dissolved. This step ensures no clumps form later.
STEP 2: Add More Water and Whisk Again
Next, add the remaining warm water and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and bright green.
At this point, transfer the matcha mixture to the fridge or freezer for about 10–15 minutes. It may seem like an extra step, but cooling the matcha helps the ice stay crisp and keeps the drink from watering down too fast.
STEP 3: Prepare the Glass
Fill your glass with plenty of ice—don’t be shy. A generous amount of ice keeps the latte refreshing and helps separate the layers beautifully.
Pour in your milk of choice, filling the glass about three-quarters full. This recipe works wonderfully with:
- Almond milk
- Oat milk
- Soy milk
- Cashew milk
- Dairy milk
Each option adds a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment.
If you prefer a sweeter iced matcha latte, add your favorite simple syrup or alternative sweetener here. Vanilla syrup, honey syrup, or brown sugar syrup all work beautifully.
STEP 4: Pour in the Matcha
Once the matcha is chilled, pour it gently over the milk and ice. The deep green matcha slowly swirling through the white milk is one of the most satisfying parts of assembling this drink.
Give it a quick stir and enjoy the refreshing calm that comes with every sip.
Why Cooling the Matcha Matters
Technically you could skip the cooling step, but it greatly improves the texture. Warm matcha melts ice too quickly, leading to a watered-down flavor.
Chilling the mixture just for a few minutes ensures that every sip of your Iced Matcha Latte (Focus Keyword) stays bold and creamy.
Milk Options for an Iced Matcha Latte
One of the best things about making your own latte is choosing exactly the milk and sweetness level that suits you. Here are the most popular options:
- Soy Milk: Creamy, slightly nutty, foams well
- Oat Milk: Smooth, naturally sweet, very creamy
- Almond Milk: Light and mildly nutty
- Whole Milk: Rich, full-bodied, blends beautifully
- Cashew Milk: Extra creamy with a delicate flavor
Matcha pairs well with nearly any milk, so go with the one you enjoy most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does matcha come from?
Matcha primarily comes from Japan, especially Kyoto and Uji—regions known for producing high-quality tea leaves.
Is matcha naturally sweet or bitter?
Matcha itself has an earthy, grassy flavor that can lean slightly bitter depending on grade. When mixed with milk, it becomes smoother and more balanced. Adding sweetener is optional but can create a well-rounded flavor.
What can I serve with an iced matcha latte?
This drink pairs wonderfully with breakfast dishes or afternoon snacks. Try pairing it with items like:
- Breakfast sandwiches
- Light pastries
- Eggs cooked in olive oil
- Fresh fruit
- Sweet rolls
- Burritos or wraps
Its subtle flavor makes it incredibly versatile.
Print
Iced Matcha Latte: A Refreshing Homemade Drink for Any Afternoon Slump
Description
Make this refreshing Iced Matcha Latte at home with just a few simple ingredients. Smooth matcha is whisked into water, chilled, and poured over cold milk and ice for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up
Ingredients
(Makes 2 glasses of iced matcha latte)
2 teaspoons matcha powder
1–2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup warm water
Ice
Milk of choice (almond, oat, soy, cashew, or dairy)
Optional: simple syrup or sweetener of your choice
Instructions
- Dissolve the matcha.
Add the matcha powder to a bowl or measuring cup. Pour in the 1–2 tablespoons of hot water and whisk until it forms a smooth, fully dissolved paste with no clumps. - Add water and chill.
Pour in the remaining warm water and whisk again until smooth. Transfer the mixture to the fridge or freezer for about 15 minutes to cool completely. - Prepare the glasses.
Fill two glasses generously with ice. Pour in your milk of choice until each glass is about three-quarters full. Add simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter latte. - Assemble the iced matcha latte.
Slowly pour the chilled matcha mixture over the milk and ice. Stir gently and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Milk Options: Works well with dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk. Each adds a slightly different flavor and level of creaminess.
- Sweetener: Adjust sweetness to taste. Vanilla syrup, honey syrup, maple syrup, or classic simple syrup all pair nicely with matcha.
- For a Fruit Twist: Try blending fresh strawberries with a little milk and syrup for a layered strawberry matcha version.
- Matcha Quality: Higher-grade matcha produces a smoother and more vibrant drink. Culinary grade works well for everyday lattes.
I’m a passionate home cook sharing easy, flavorful recipes inspired by my roots and travels — bringing a splash of joy and global taste to every family meal.
