Matcha is a green tea powder. It's made with a special shade-grown green tea plant high in chlorophyll that is ground into a fine powder. When you make matcha, the powder is incorporated into the liquid. This is different than when you make a cup of tea and steep the leaves and then discard them. With matcha, you're consuming the plant.

Is a matcha latte still healthy?

It depends on your definition of healthy. A homemade frozen latte, like this recipe, uses fewer ingredients and no additives compared to coffee shops. However, there is still sugar in the form of maple syrup. I'd argue that it is a healthier alternative to buying something similar and that's why I wanted to share this recipe. In general, there are many matcha benefits, and you'd still get them from a latte. Most of these are the same as regular green tea, but the benefits are even greater because you directly consume the plant. They include increased energy and reduced stress. The energy you get from matcha is said to be less jittery and more focused energy than coffee. Here's some more info on the health benefits.

What's the difference between matcha and matcha latte?

Think of it as you would espresso. You make espresso with water, right? But when you add milk, it becomes something else - such as a latte or cappuccino depending on how you make it. The same with matcha. If you make it purely with water, that's matcha tea. If you combine it with milk, it becomes more of a latte beverage. David's Tea has more info on the traditional preparation of matcha.

Frozen Matcha Latte

Description

This frozen matcha latte requires just five ingredients and ice to make a refreshing and energizing beverage perfect for summer.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 teaspoon matcha powder
2 ounces of hot water
1 1/2 cups of ice cubes
1 cup milk (cow, almond, soy, coconut, etc.)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha and hot water until dissolved.
Add the ice to your blender, then pour in the matcha liquid, milk, vanilla, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth.
Pour into a large glass, and if you’re feeling indulgent, top with whipped cream.

Notes

Don't do dairy? Use your favorite milk alternative.

Want it less sweet? Maybe sweeter? Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: Japanese