Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe
The Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte is a delightful and refreshing beverage that perfectly balances the bold, earthy flavor of matcha green tea with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberry purée. This drink is a feast for the eyes with its beautiful layers of vibrant green and ruby red, and it offers a creamy, chilled treat that’s both energizing and soothing. Whether you’re cooling off on a warm day or craving a unique twist on your usual latte, this recipe effortlessly blends Japanese tradition with a fruity, contemporary flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind a perfect Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving that creamy texture, vivid color contrast, and irresistible flavor harmony.
- Matcha powder: Choose a high-quality, vibrant green matcha to get that deep, earthy flavor and beautiful color.
- Hot water: Used to whisk the matcha smoothly, unlocking its full richness and frothiness.
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): Adds creaminess and balances the strong matcha taste—almond, oat, or regular milk all work wonderfully.
- Strawberry purée: Fresh or frozen berries blended into a purée bring a natural sweetness and bright color to the drink.
- Honey or simple syrup: Softens the tartness of strawberries and complements the matcha with gentle sweetness.
- Ice cubes: Essential for that refreshing chill and crisp texture in every sip.
How to Make Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha
Start by whisking 2 tablespoons of matcha powder with ¼ cup of hot water. Use a bamboo whisk or any small whisk to create a smooth, frothy mixture without clumps. This step is crucial for unlocking the vibrant flavor and giving the matcha its signature creamy foam.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Purée
If you don’t have ready-made purée, blend fresh or thawed frozen strawberries until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey or simple syrup to amplify the natural sweetness. This purée will form the mouthwatering base of your latte.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
Pour the strawberry purée into the bottom of two glasses, then add a handful of ice cubes to keep things cool and crisp. Carefully pour 1½ cups of milk over the ice. Finally, slowly drizzle the whisked matcha on top — this layering technique creates the beautiful color contrast, making your Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte truly Instagram-worthy.
Step 4: Enjoy
Before sipping, gently stir the layers together to blend the earthy matcha with the sweet strawberry and creamy milk. It’s in this combination that the drink’s perfectly balanced flavor really shines.
How to Serve Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte
Garnishes
Elevate your Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte with fresh garnishes like a slice of strawberry on the rim, a sprinkle of matcha powder on top, or even a few mint leaves for a refreshing aroma and pop of green. These little touches make the drink feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This latte pairs beautifully with light, sweet treats such as buttery shortbread cookies, matcha-flavored biscotti, or even a delicate strawberry chiffon cake. The synergy between your drink and treats can turn a simple break into a charming little ritual.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the latte in clear glass tumblers to showcase its stunning layers. For a fun twist, add edible flowers or drizzle a bit of strawberry sauce inside the glass before pouring the layers. You can even experiment by using flavored milk alternatives like coconut or cashew milk for nuanced flavor profiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftover strawberry purée or matcha mix, store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Fresh strawberry purée typically keeps for up to 3 days, while whisked matcha is best used within a day for optimal freshness.
Freezing
Strawberry purée freezes beautifully, so you can portion it into ice cube trays and pop out cubes as needed for future lattes. However, avoid freezing the combined iced latte since milk’s texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating
This chilled beverage is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you’d like a warm version, simply prepare fresh matcha with hot milk and stir in warmed strawberry purée before serving.
FAQs
Can I use flavored syrups instead of honey in the Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte?
Absolutely! Flavored syrups like vanilla or raspberry can add different layers of taste while maintaining the drink’s sweetness. Just be mindful of the syrup’s intensity to not overpower the delicate matcha and fresh strawberry flavors.
Is it necessary to use hot water to mix the matcha?
Yes, hot water helps dissolve the matcha powder fully and brings out its vibrant color and flavor. Cold water can result in clumps and a less smooth texture.
Can I make this latte vegan?
Definitely! Simply choose a plant-based milk such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a completely vegan-friendly treat.
How do I get those perfect layers in the Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte?
Pour the strawberry purée first, then add ice cubes gently before slowly adding the milk. The crucial step is to pour the matcha slowly over the back of a spoon or just very gently on top to avoid mixing. This layering creates the stunning visual effect.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the purée?
Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well. Thaw them slightly before blending to ensure a smooth purée. They often provide a deeper, more concentrated strawberry flavor, especially when fresh berries aren’t in season.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about crafting your own Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte. It’s a drink that brings together the grounded warmth of matcha with the lively sweetness of strawberries in a way that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or simply treating yourself to a little moment of calm, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes your go-to for a delicious pick-me-up.
