Vanilla Matcha Latte

This vanilla matcha latte is what I look forward to every morning! It is the best part of my morning routine. I love sipping on a creamy and cozy vanilla matcha latte from the comfort of my own home, without having to make a trip to the coffee shop. Plus, I can make it with simple ingredients and it makes me feel so energized! This latte is easy to make dairy free and vegan by using a plant-based milk. I am obsessed with the sweetness of vanilla combining perfectly with the earthy notes of matcha. This antioxidant-rich boost, ready in less than 5 minutes, is the ideal anytime pick-me-up, fitting seamlessly into your busy schedule!

Why You’ll Love This Matcha Latte

It is easy to make and only takes a few minutes!

It is gluten free and dairy free.

This matcha latte won’t give you the same crash that coffee does.

It is packed with anti-oxidants.

This drink is the perfect cozy way to start your morning!

It will provide you with energy that lasts throughout the day.

This latte will save you money because you won’t have to make a trip to the coffee shop!

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, originating in China but predominantly associated with Japanese tea culture. It is produced by shading the tea plants for the last few weeks before harvest to increase their chlorophyll and amino acid content, resulting in a vibrant green color and a rich, umami-like flavor.

How To Store Matcha

Matcha is susceptible to oxidation, which can dull its flavor and vibrant color. An airtight container, like a tin or ceramic canister, will help keep it fresh. Matcha is also light-sensitive.

Light can break down the chlorophyll in matcha, leading to a loss of vibrancy and a more bitter taste. Look for a container that’s opaque, or store it in a dark place like a cabinet.

Heat can also degrade matcha’s quality, so make sure to store it at room temperature.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your matcha at its peak freshness for longer.

Different Types of Matcha

Matcha isn’t categorized by different types of tea leaves, but rather by grades. These grades indicate the quality and intended use of the matcha powder.

Ceremonial Grade Matcha: This is the top-of-the-line matcha, made from the youngest, most tender tea leaves. It has the brightest green color, smoothest texture, and sweetest taste. Ceremonial matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies.

Premium Grade Matcha: Premium grade matcha is also high quality, but it may not be quite as vibrant green or sweet as ceremonial grade. It’s a good choice for everyday drinking or for making matcha lattes.

Culinary Grade Matcha: Culinary grade matcha is a good option for cooking and baking, because it has a stronger matcha flavor than higher grades. It may have a slightly bitter taste.

Ingredient Grade Matcha: This is the least expensive grade of matcha, and it’s not intended for drinking on its own. It’s typically used as a flavoring ingredient in processed foods or drinks.

Health Benefits of Matcha

Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially processed green tea leaves, is renowned for its rich flavor and array of potential health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits associated with matcha consumption:

High Antioxidant Content: Matcha is exceptionally rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are believed to play a role in reducing oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Cognitive Enhancement: Matcha contains caffeine, a stimulant that can enhance alertness, improve focus, and boost cognitive performance. Additionally, matcha’s L-theanine content promotes relaxation and stress reduction, counteracting the potential jitters from caffeine. This unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine may lead to a state of focused alertness and enhanced cognitive function.

Mental Well-being: Matcha may promote mental well-being by potentially reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing mood and improving sleep quality. L-theanine, a key component of matcha, has been shown to promote relaxation and stress reduction, while theanine and caffeine together may induce a state of calm alertness that can enhance mood and cognitive function.

Other Potential Benefits: Research suggests that matcha consumption may offer additional health benefits, including:

• Antibacterial effects: Matcha may exhibit antibacterial properties, potentially aiding in oral hygiene and preventing dental infections.
• Skin health: Matcha may promote skin health by potentially protecting against sun damage and reducing inflammation.

Equipment Needed

All you need to make this vanilla matcha latte is a cup, whisk and a milk frother.

Ingredients Needed

Matcha: I like to use high-quality, organic and ceremonial grade matcha. My absolute favorite matcha is Pique Matcha. If you grab it from my link, you will get a discount!

Milk: I used vanilla almond milk in this vanilla matcha latte. Feel free to use any type of milk you desire! I like to mix things up by using pistachio milk or hazelnut milk too.

Vanilla: You can use vanilla bean or vanilla extract here. Either works well!

Sweetener: Sweetener is totally optional! Try out using honey, agave or maple syrup.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Heat 1/4 cup water in a mug and whisk in matcha and vanilla.

Step 3: Froth milk and pour over the top. Enjoy!

Storage

This recipe makes a single serving, so I doubt that you will have leftovers, but if you need to run out while you are drinking this vanilla matcha latte, simply store it in the fridge and consume it later that day!

How to Make a Matcha Latte

There are multiple ways to make this matcha latte!

Frother: Froth together matcha and hot water. Add milk and mix again.

Whisk: Add matcha to hot water and whisk with a bamboo whisk. Add matcha to a mug and pour over milk.

Blender: Blend the matcha, vanilla and warm water in a blender. Transfer into a mug and pour over frothed milk! You can also add the milk directly into the blender instead.

How to Make a Matcha Latte Iced

My favorite hack for making an iced matcha latte that doesn’t get diluted by ice cubes is using frozen milk cubes! To make these, pour your favorite milk into an ice cube maker and freeze overnight.

Variations

There are endless variations to this vanilla matcha latte! You can choose to add sweetener or omit it. You can also add cinnamon or whipped cream on top! Matcha is also delicious with fruit- try making a blueberry matcha or a strawberry matcha.

Blood Glucose Response

Monitoring your blood glucose response with a CGM can allow you to gain insights into your diet, nutrition, sleep and hormones. I personally track my blood sugar response because I have noticed it corresponds to POTS flares for me. Here is more information on why you should monitor your blood glucose. This is my glucose response to this vanilla matcha latte using the Veri CGM to gather data. If you use my link you can get 20% off!

Recipe FAQ

Does vanilla go well with matcha?

The sweet flavor of vanilla complements the earthy flavor of matcha very well!

Is vanilla matcha latte good for you?

Matcha is high in anti-oxidants and has various health benefits!

Does Starbucks have a vanilla matcha?

Starbucks does not have a vanilla matcha latte on their menu, but you can customize one. This is a much healthier version though!

What type of milk is best for a matcha latte?

I love using vanilla almond milk in this matcha latte! Feel free to use any kind of milk though. Some of my other favorites are macadamia, pistachio and hazelnut milk.

Is this matcha latte gluten free?

Yes! If all of your ingredients are gluten free, then this latte will be gluten free.

Is this matcha latte vegan? 

Yes! This matcha latte is vegan if all of your ingredients are vegan.

How can you make this matcha latte taste sweet?

Be sure to add sweetener if you want this matcha latte to be sweet. I like to add honey, maple syrup or agave. You can also add cinnamon or whipped cream!

Can you make a matcha latte without a milk frother?

Yes! An alternative would be to put the ingredients in a blender.

Can you make this vanilla matcha latte ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this ahead of time if you prefer and then heat it up when you are ready to drink it.

Can you make this vanilla matcha latte iced?

Yes! Simply wait for the latte to cool and pour it over ice.

Related Recipes

Feel free to try these breakfast ideas to pair with your matcha:

Dairy Free Egg Bake

Vegan French Toast Bake

Breakfast Gnocchi

Sweet Potato Pancakes

Crispy Sausage Hash Brown Bites

If you make this vanilla matcha latte and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.