Have You Ever Wondered If You Can Make an Iced Matcha Latte That’s Better Than Your Favorite Café’s? Let me tell you something—you absolutely can! And I’m here to prove it.
I used to think my local coffee shop held the secret to the perfect iced matcha latte. You know the kind: creamy, slightly sweet, with that signature bright green color that just looks healthy. I spent way too much money trying to recreate that experience at home, but it never tasted quite right. It was either too bitter, too watery, or just flat-out boring.
Then, after a little experimenting (and a few failed attempts that tasted like grassy water—yuck!), I cracked the code. Today, I’m sharing my favorite iced matcha latte recipe that’s better than anything I’ve bought at a café. Pinky promise!
Whether you’re a matcha newbie or a seasoned fan, this recipe is easy, quick, and totally delicious. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Why You Should Make This Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes—flavor, convenience, and versatility. Here’s why I’m obsessed:
- It’s creamy, smooth, and not too sweet—just the way a good iced matcha latte should be.
- You only need a few simple ingredients that you can find at almost any grocery store.
- It only takes a 5 minutes to make. Seriously, you’ll be sipping before you know it.
- You can change it up—make it a vegan iced matcha latte, add vanilla, or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- It’s way more budget-friendly than buying one every day at your local café.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Iced Matcha Latte
The secret to making the best iced matcha latte starts with using the right ingredients. Let me explain why.
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
- High-Quality Matcha Powder:
Look for ceremonial grade matcha if you can. It’s vibrant green, smooth, and not bitter. Culinary grade works too, but the flavor might be a bit stronger and less sweet. - Milk of Your Choice:
I love using oat milk for that creamy texture, but almond milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk all work great. If you want a vegan iced matcha latte, plant-based milk is the way to go. - Sweetener:
Maple syrup is my go-to because it adds a natural sweetness without overpowering the matcha. Honey, agave, or simple syrup work too. Or leave it unsweetened if you prefer. - Ice:
Yep, plain old ice. But trust me, the right ice-to-latte ratio makes all the difference for that refreshing sip. - Vanilla Extract (Optional):
Want a vanilla iced matcha latte? Add a drop or two of vanilla extract for a cozy twist. It’s SO good.
Check this guide for tips on how to choose the best matcha.
Buying Tips:
- Buy matcha in small amounts—it stays fresher that way.
- Look for bright green powder, not dull or yellowish green.
- Choose unsweetened milk so you control the sweetness.
- Organic maple syrup or honey offers the best flavor.
Ingredients & Prep For Iced Matcha Latte

Here’s What You’ll Need:
- 1 to 1.5 teaspoons high-quality matcha powder
- 2 tablespoons warm water (not boiling—just warm)
- 1 cup milk of your choice (I love oat milk for creaminess!)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or your favorite sweetener)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended)
- Ice cubes
How To Make Iced Matcha Latte
Step-By-Step (Super Easy, I Promise!)
- Whisk the Matcha:
In a small bowl or cup, add your matcha powder and warm water. Whisk until it’s smooth with no lumps. You can use a bamboo whisk (called a chasen), a small regular whisk, or even a milk frother. Don’t skip this step—no one likes clumps! - Sweeten It Up:
Add your maple syrup (or sweetener of choice) and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Whisk again to combine. - Fill Your Glass:
Add a handful of ice cubes to your favorite glass. - Pour the Milk:
Pour your milk over the ice. Look at those creamy swirls! - Top with Matcha:
Slowly pour your matcha mixture over the milk. Stir gently if you like it mixed, or leave it layered for that pretty café-style look. - Sip and Enjoy:
That’s it! Your homemade iced matcha latte is ready.
Timing
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Mixing Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
That’s right—just 5 minutes and you’re done! Quicker than standing in line at your favorite café, right?
Nutritional Information (Estimate for One Serving)
- Calories: 120 (based on oat milk and maple syrup)
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 18g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Caffeine: About 60-70mg (less than coffee!)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking to make it even lighter or more nutritious? Here are a few ideas:
- Skip the sweetener for a sugar-free option.
- Use unsweetened almond or cashew milk to lower calories.
- Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for an energy boost.
- Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a zero-calorie option.
Serving Suggestions
I love sipping this iced matcha latte on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas:
- With a breakfast pastry, like a blueberry muffin or banana bread.
- Alongside your favorite smoothie bowl for a refreshing combo.
- As an afternoon pick-me-up when you need a little energy boost.
Pro tip: Make a double batch and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake it before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Iced Matcha Latte
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using boiling water—it makes matcha taste bitter.
- Skipping the whisking—no one wants powdery clumps.
- Using low-quality matcha—you’ll miss out on that smooth, rich flavor.
Tool Recommendations:
- Bamboo whisk (chasen) or a milk frother for smooth mixing.
- Tall glass to show off those pretty layers.
- Reusable straw because, let’s be honest, it’s more fun to sip.
Storage & Reheating:
- Keep it in the fridge for up to one day. Shake well before drinking.
- Best served cold—it’s called an iced matcha latte, after all!

More Such Recipes
- Matcha Basics – What to Know Before Starting Your Matcha Tea Journey
- Refreshing Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte – A Fruity Twist on a Classic
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Make a double batch and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake or stir before drinking.
Is matcha healthier than coffee?
Matcha has less caffeine than coffee but comes with a boost of antioxidants. It gives you energy without the jitters—win-win!
Can I make it without a whisk?
Absolutely. A small jar with a lid or a milk frother works great too.
How do I make a vegan iced matcha latte?
Just use your favorite plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, and you’re all set.
What’s the difference between ceremonial and culinary matcha?
Ceremonial grade is smoother and slightly sweeter. Culinary grade is stronger and better for baking or cooking.
Conclusion
And there you have it—your very own iced matcha latte, made right at home, better than your favorite café’s (yep, I said it!). It’s creamy, refreshing, and totally customizable.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your matcha, whisk it up, and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to drop a comment or share your latte pic with me.
Happy sipping, friends!
PrintIced Matcha Latte
A creamy, smooth, and refreshing iced matcha latte you can easily make at home—better than your favorite café’s!
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drink
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 to 1.5 teaspoons high-quality matcha powder
- 2 tablespoons warm water (not boiling—just warm)
- 1 cup milk of your choice (oat milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or your favorite sweetener)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a small bowl or cup, add matcha powder and warm water. Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
- Add maple syrup and vanilla extract if using. Whisk again to combine.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour milk over the ice.
- Slowly pour the matcha mixture over the milk. Stir if desired or leave layered.
- Serve and enjoy your iced matcha latte.
Notes
Make a double batch and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before serving for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg