Vanilla Matcha Latte

About Matcha Powder

Matcha is a type of green tea that is grown and harvested in a unique way. The tea plants are covered with shade cloths a few weeks before harvest, which causes the leaves to produce more chlorophyll and gives them a vibrant green color. After harvest, the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Unlike other types of tea, matcha powder is consumed whole, which means you get all of the nutrients and antioxidants that the tea leaves contain.

Matcha powder is known for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor and is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

In recent years, it has become popular in the Western world as a key ingredient in lattes, smoothies, and baked goods. Due to its unique growing and harvesting process, matcha is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that have been linked to a range of health benefits, including improved heart health, and improved brain function.

Matcha Health Benefits

Matcha is a type of green tea that is ground into a fine powder. This means you consume the entire tea leaf, which is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Matcha is also high in amino acids, which can help boost energy levels and improve heart health. Additionally, matcha has been linked to skin health, and improved brain function.

Caffeine in Matcha

Matcha powder contains caffeine, but the amount can vary depending on the quality and quantity of the powder used. On average, one teaspoon of matcha powder contains about 70 mg of caffeine. This is roughly equivalent to the amount of caffeine found in a shot of espresso.

However, the caffeine in matcha is thought to be released more slowly over time compared to coffee, which can result in a longer, more sustained energy boost.

Additionally, matcha contains a compound called L-theanine, which is thought to promote relaxation and reduce the jittery effects of caffeine.

Matcha vs. Green Tea

Matcha and green tea are both derived from the same plant, but they differ in their growing and harvesting process. Matcha is grown in the shade and ground into a fine powder, while green tea leaves are simply steeped in hot water and then discarded. This means that matcha contains more nutrients and antioxidants than green tea, as you consume the entire tea leaf when drinking matcha.

Where to Buy Matcha Powder

Matcha powder can be found at many specialty food stores, health food stores, and online retailers. Look for high-quality matcha powder made from fresh, young tea leaves that have been grown in the shade for a vibrant green color and rich flavor. When purchasing matcha powder, be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that it is culinary grade and suitable for use in recipes like this vanilla matcha latte.

How Starbucks creates Matcha Latte

Starbucks uses a pre-made matcha powder blend that is sweetened and mixed with milk. They add the powder to a pitcher, pour in steamed milk, and then mix the two together. The result is a sweet and creamy matcha latte that is popular among Starbucks customers. However, the pre-made powder blend does not have the same depth of flavor as high-quality ceremonial grade matcha powder.

Ingredients & Notes

Here's everything you need for this recipe:

• Matcha powder - The star ingredient of this latte, matcha powder is a type of green tea that is ground into a fine powder. It has a unique flavor that is earthy and slightly bitter.
• Hot water - Used to make a paste with the matcha powder, hot water helps to dissolve the powder and bring out its full flavor.
• Milk of choice - Any type of milk can be used in this recipe, such as whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, cashew milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. The milk adds creaminess and balances out the bitterness of the matcha.
• Vanilla syrup or real vanilla bean paste - Vanilla adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to the latte, and helps to enhance the flavor of the matcha.
• Maple syrup or agave nectar (optional) - For those who prefer a sweeter latte, maple syrup or agave nectar can be added to the milk mixture.

See recipe card at the bottom of the post for quantities.

Best Plant Milk for Matcha

When making a matcha latte, any type of plant milk can be used depending on personal preference. Some popular options include oat milk, almond milk, cashew milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.

Each type of milk will affect the flavor and texture of the latte differently, so it's recommended to try out a few options to find the one that suits your taste.

Best Vanilla to Use

For the perfect vanilla matcha latte, it's best to use vanilla syrup or real vanilla bean paste for the most authentic flavor. Avoid using artificial vanilla extract as it may not provide the same depth of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Here are some ingredient substitutions for the vanilla matcha latte recipe:

• Matcha powder - You can substitute other types of tea powders, such as sencha or hojicha, but the flavor and color of the latte will be different.
• Milk - You can use any type of plant milk you prefer, such as almond milk, or coconut milk. Keep in mind that each type of milk will affect the flavor and texture of the latte differently.
• Vanilla syrup or paste - You can use any type of sweetener or flavoring you prefer, such as maple, agave nectar, or caramel sauce. Adjust the amount to taste.
• Maple syrup or agave nectar - You can omit this ingredient if you prefer a less sweet latte, or substitute it with any other sweetener you prefer.

Equipment

Here's everything you need for this recipe:

• Small whisk or traditional matcha whisk
• Small bowl
• Small saucepan
• Milk frother or hand frother
• Cup for serving

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

You can easily make vanilla matcha latte at home with a fews simple steps:

Whisk together 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and 2 tablespoon of hot water until it forms a paste.

Heat the milk with vanilla syrup (and maple syrup, if using) until hot and steaming but not boiling.

Froth the milk until it is creamy and has a thick layer of foam on top.

Pour the matcha paste into a cup.

Top with frothed milk

Use a small whisk or traditional matcha whisk to mix the matcha and milk together until combined.

Spoon some extra milk froth on top.

Decorate to your liking and enjoy your homemade vanilla matcha latte!

Serving

You can serve your vanilla matcha latte with a biscuit or small snack on the side - this is a great way to balance out the flavors and textures of the drink, and can make for a more satisfying and enjoyable experience overall.

Some ideas for what to serve alongside a matcha latte:

• biscuits
• cookies
• scones
• similar small snacks

Extra tip: Consider adding a decorative touch to your latte by using latte art! This is a fun and creative way to make your drink more visually appealing. To make latte art, simply pour the frothed milk on top of the matcha paste in a slow and steady stream, then use a toothpick or other small tool to create designs in the foam.

How to Store

It is recommended to consume the latte immediately after making it for the best taste and texture.

If you have leftover latte, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When ready to drink, gently heat the latte in a saucepan or microwave until warm, and stir well before serving.

It is not recommended to freeze the latte as this may affect the taste and texture.

Recipe Variations

If you want to shake things up, why not try taking this recipe to the next level:

• Iced vanilla matcha latte - pour the hot milk and matcha over ice cubes instead of mixing them together
• Matcha Shot - use ½ teaspoon matcha powder and 1 tablespoon hot water
• Ceremonial Matcha Latte - use ceremonial grade matcha instead of culinary grade matcha

How to Froth Matcha Latte

Frothing the milk is an important step in making a delicious matcha latte. There are several methods you can use to froth the milk, including a bamboo whisk, an electric milk frother, or a handheld frother.

Using a Bamboo Whisk

• Pour the hot milk into a separate container, leaving a little bit of foam in the saucepan.
• Add the matcha paste to your cup, then pour the milk into the cup.
• Use the bamboo whisk to mix the matcha and milk together until combined, making sure to scrape the bottom of the cup to incorporate all of the matcha.
• Hold the whisk between your palms and rub them together quickly to create a frothy layer of foam on top of the latte.
• Finally, use the whisk to gently stir the foam into the latte.

Using an Electric frother or handheld frother

• Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Once the milk is hot but not boiling, use the frother to whisk the milk until creamy and a thick layer of foam has formed on top.
• Pour the matcha paste into a cup, then pour the frothed milk on top. Use a spoon to hold back the foam as you pour, then spoon the foam on top of the latte once you've poured in all of the milk.
• Finally, use a small whisk or traditional matcha whisk to mix the matcha and milk together until combined.

Best Water Temperature for Matcha

One of the key factors in making a delicious matcha latte is using the right water temperature. Water that is too hot can cause the matcha to become bitter and unpleasant, while water that is too cold can result in a weak and flavorless drink.

The ideal water temperature for making matcha is between 160°F and 180°F (70°C - 80°C). This temperature range allows the matcha to dissolve properly and release its full flavor and aroma. To achieve this temperature, you can heat the water in a small saucepan over medium heat and check with a cooking thermometer, or use a kettle with a built-in temperature gauge.

It's important to note that boiling water should never be used to make matcha, as it can damage the delicate flavor and nutrients of the tea. By using the right water temperature, you can ensure that your matcha latte is perfectly balanced and delicious.

How to Make Matcha Latte in a Blender

You can easily prepare make matcha latte in a blender, if you don't have any of the above mentioned tools to hand:

• Combine 1 teaspoon matcha powder, 2 tablespoon hot water, 1 cup milk of choice, and 1 tablespoon sweetener (e.g. maple syrup) in a blender.
• Blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
• Pour the mixture into a cup and enjoy your delicious matcha latte!

Note that the frothing process may not be as effective in a blender compared to using a milk frother or handheld frother.

How to Tell if Matcha Powder has Gone Bad

Matcha powder can go bad if it is not stored properly. To tell if your matcha powder has gone bad, look for signs of discoloration or a stale, musty smell.

Fresh matcha powder will have a vibrant green color and a fresh, grassy aroma. If your matcha powder has a yellow or brown tint, or if it smells stale or musty, it may be past its prime and should be discarded.

Additionally, be sure to store your matcha powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to help extend its shelf life.

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