The Matcha Green Tea Latte from Starbucks blends vibrant matcha green tea powder with steamed milk, topped with a light frothy layer, delivering a smooth, creamy, and subtly sweet flavor with a vibrant green hue.
Equipments
- Matcha whisk (chasen) or electric frother
- Measuring spoon
- Small bowl or cup (for mixing matcha)
- Milk frothing pitcher
- Steam wand (espresso machine) or handheld milk frother
- Serving mug or cup
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
- 2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
- 8 oz (240ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
Matcha green tea powder is key to achieving the vibrant flavor and color characteristic of the latte, so use a high-quality, finely sifted matcha for best results. Sugar is optional and can be adjusted to your preference to balance the natural bitterness of matcha. Fresh, cold milk is necessary to create the smooth, creamy texture when steamed or frothed, ideally using whole or 2% milk for richness. You can use a traditional matcha whisk (chasen) or an electric frother to properly dissolve the matcha powder and create a frothy layer. If you're making a Matcha Green Tea Latte from Starbucks copycat menu at home, precise measurement and proper frothing technique are essential to replicate its smooth taste and vibrant green hue that you enjoy.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Sift 1 teaspoon matcha powder into a small bowl or cup.
- Add 2 teaspoons sugar to the matcha powder.
- Pour in a small amount of hot (not boiling) water, about 2 tablespoons.
- Whisk using a matcha whisk or electric frother until smooth and frothy.
- Heat 8 oz (240ml) milk with a steam wand, milk frother, or on the stove until steaming (not boiling).
- Froth the milk until you achieve a creamy, foamy texture.
- Pour the prepared matcha mixture into a serving mug.
- Gently pour the steamed milk into the mug, holding back the foam with a spoon.
- Spoon the frothy milk foam on top.
- Optional: Sprinkle extra matcha powder on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Substitution
The Matcha Green Tea Latte copycat recipe from Starbucks uses vibrant matcha powder and steamed milk to recreate the creamy, subtly sweet flavor and vibrant green color of the original. If you don't have a matcha whisk (chasen), an electric frother or small whisk can effectively mix the matcha powder with hot water to prevent clumping. Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess, but you can substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk to suit dietary preferences or lactose intolerance. Adjust sugar according to your taste or omit it if you prefer a more authentic, slightly bitter matcha experience. Your steamed milk should be lightly frothed rather than heavily foamed to mimic Starbucks' smooth texture.
Tips
To ensure a smooth and lump-free Matcha Green Tea Latte, always sift the matcha powder before mixing it with water. Use hot water just below boiling--around 175degF (80degC)--to prevent bitterness and preserve the vibrant green color. Froth the milk to a creamy consistency without overheating, as boiling milk can scorch and alter the flavor profile. When pouring, hold back the foam with a spoon to layer it perfectly, allowing you to enjoy a balanced texture in every sip.
Nutritions
The Matcha Green Tea Latte provides antioxidants from matcha, known to support metabolism and boost energy without jitters. With 8 oz of milk, it supplies calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health. Sugar content can vary, affecting calorie count, so you can adjust sweetness to suit your dietary needs. Your latte balances nutrients with a smooth, creamy texture for a satisfying, health-conscious drink.
Storage
Store any leftover matcha powder in an airtight container away from light and moisture to preserve its vibrant color and fresh flavor. Refrigerate any unused steamed milk promptly in a sealed container and consume within 24 hours to maintain freshness. Your prepared latte is best enjoyed immediately and is not recommended for storage.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to create a dairy-free Matcha Green Tea Latte that still maintains a creamy texture. Instead of using granulated sugar, try honey or agave syrup to add natural sweetness and complement the earthy matcha flavor. For a more intense matcha taste, increase the matcha powder to 1.5 teaspoons while adjusting the sweetness to your preference. If you lack a matcha whisk, a small handheld milk frother can effectively mix and froth the matcha mixture for a smooth consistency.
Allergies
The Matcha Green Tea Latte contains milk, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Matcha green tea powder, while generally safe, may cause sensitivity in those allergic to tea or caffeine. You should always check ingredient labels and consult a healthcare professional if you have known allergies or sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Matcha Green Tea Latte from Starbucks appeals for its unique blend of vibrantly flavored matcha powder and creamy steamed milk, delivering a smooth, antioxidant-rich beverage. Its balance of sweetness and earthy notes offers a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee drinks, making it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. You can recreate this trendy latte at home to customize sweetness and milk preferences, saving money while enjoying a premium Starbucks experience. The DIY approach also allows experimentation with different matcha grades and flavors, making it a rewarding project for both taste and wellness.