How long does it take to make this strawberry matcha drink?

From start to finish it usually takes about 5–10 minutes. Macerating the fruit for a few minutes gives better flavor, but you can skip or speed that step for a quicker cup.

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes — frozen work great. Let them thaw a bit, mash or blitz in a blender, then sweeten. They add cold thickness and save time when fresh aren’t available.

Which kind of green tea powder should I buy for the best color and flavor?

Pick a high-quality ceremonial powder if you want vivid color and delicate taste. Everyday or culinary grades are fine for drinks if you’re on a budget — they’ll still give you that earthy note.

What milk gives the creamiest result?

Oat and almond are my go-tos. Oat is extra creamy and foams nicely; almond is a lighter, nutty option. Use any cow’s or plant milk you like — just pick one you enjoy drinking plain.

How do I avoid clumps when mixing the powder?

Sift the powder into a small bowl first, then whisk with a little hot water in quick side-to-side motions. A small whisk or frother helps make a smooth, foamy mix.

Can I make parts of this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prep the fruit base up to a day ahead and store it covered. You can also pre-sift the powder and keep it airtight, then whisk fresh when you’re ready to assemble.

What sweeteners work best with the green tea flavor?

Honey and maple syrup complement the earthy notes nicely. Simple syrup dissolves fastest. Taste as you go — a little sweetener goes a long way.

How do I keep the layers from blending together?

Chill your milk, add lots of ice, then pour the green tea mix slowly over the back of a spoon or tilted glass. Cold elements and gentle pouring help the layers sit pretty.

Can I turn this into a hot drink instead?

For sure. Warm the milk and stir in the whisked powder, then swirl in the fruit purée or a spoonful of macerated berries. Skip the ice and top with a cloud of whipped cream if you like.

Any quick tips if the drink tastes too bitter or too sweet?

If it’s bitter, reduce the powder slightly or add more milk. If it’s too sweet, cut back on the syrup next time or add a splash of plain milk to balance it out.

What tools do I really need to make this at home?

Keep it simple: a small bowl, a fine sifter, a whisk or electric frother, a muddler or spoon for the fruit, and a tall glass. A blender helps if you want a smooth purée.

Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe - Simple and Delicious

Name: Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe - Simple and Delicious
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or 3/4 cup frozen, thawed); 1-2 teaspoons sugar or honey; 1 teaspoon high-quality matcha powder (ceremonial or everyday grade); 2-3 tablespoons hot water (not boiling, around 175°F); 3/4 cup cold milk (dairy, oat, or almond milk); 1/2 cup ice cubes; Optional: extra honey or maple syrup to taste

Description

Emma’s 5-minute strawberry matcha latte with beautiful layers of macerated berries, creamy milk, and frothy green tea. Perfect for busy home cooks seeking cafe vibes at home without the $8 price tag.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or 3/4 cup frozen, thawed)

1–2 teaspoons sugar or honey

1 teaspoon high-quality matcha powder (ceremonial or everyday grade)

2–3 tablespoons hot water (not boiling, around 175°F)

3/4 cup cold milk (dairy, oat, or almond milk)

1/2 cup ice cubes

Optional: extra honey or maple syrup to taste

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Instructions

1. Macerate the strawberries: Chop fresh strawberries and sprinkle with 1-2 teaspoons sugar. Set aside for 5 minutes to release juices. If using frozen, thaw slightly and mash.

2. Prepare the matcha: Sift matcha powder into a small bowl to remove clumps. Add 2-3 tablespoons hot water (not boiling).

3. Whisk the matcha: Using a bamboo whisk or electric frother, whisk side-to-side for 30-60 seconds until smooth and foamy with no clumps.

4. Build the layers: Spoon macerated strawberries and juices into a tall clear glass. Add ice cubes.

5. Add milk layer: Slowly pour cold milk over ice to create the middle layer.

6. Top with matcha: Gently pour whisked matcha over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass to maintain distinct green layer.

7. Taste and adjust: Stir once to create pink ribbons if desired. Add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

8. Serve immediately: Enjoy with a straw or spoon, stirring gently as you drink.

Notes

For best results, use ceremonial or everyday grade matcha powder for vibrant color and smooth taste.

Chill your glass and milk beforehand for cleaner layer separation.

Make-ahead tip: Macerate strawberries up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge.

Plant milk substitutions: Oat milk creates the creamiest texture, while almond milk offers a light, nutty flavor.

Prevent clumps: Always sift matcha powder and use hot (not boiling) water for whisking.

Budget-friendly: This homemade version costs about $2 compared to $7-8 at cafes like Boba Guys.

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Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 120
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 45mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg