Making a Matcha Latte
Making a tasty matcha latte at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a super simple guide, pulled together from a bunch of great tips out there.
Gather your ingredients:
Ceremonial grade is often recommended for its vibrant flavor and smooth texture, but a latte grade can also be a good option.
Heat hot water below boiling at 185°F. Avoid boiling water as it can make the matcha taste bitter.
Use your milk of choice, whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk are popular options. Whole milk and oat milk tend to froth best. Sweetener is optional. Honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste.
Prepare the matcha: Sift the matcha powder. This is a crucial step that helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth latte. Use a fine mesh sieve or a small sifter. Add the sifted matcha to a bowl or mug. Pour in the hot water.
Use a bamboo matcha whisk or a regular whisk. Whisk vigorously in an up-and-down motion or a "W" pattern until the matcha is smooth and a little frothy. This incorporates air, which contributes to the creaminess.
Heat and froth the milk: Warm your milk to a simmer. Use a milk frother or a steam wand to froth the milk until it's foamy.
Assemble your latte: Add the whisked matcha mixture to a mug. Pour the frothed milk into the mug with the matcha. Stir in your preferred sweetener.
Some recipes include sweeteners like vanilla syrup or cold foam. You can also add other flavors, such as cardamom or pistachio syrup.
Serve immediately: Enjoy your creamy and delicious matcha latte.
Tips for a creamy latte: Whisk the matcha thoroughly with hot water first. Froth the milk separately using an electric frother, steam wand, or other frothing method. Combine the frothed milk and the whisked matcha, stirring gently.
To make an iced matcha latte: Prepare the matcha paste as above, then add more cold water and whisk again. Fill a glass with ice and add your milk of choice. Pour the chilled matcha mixture over the ice and milk.
Enjoy your homemade matcha latte!