What type of matcha does Starbucks use?

Starbucks uses their own proprietary matcha blend that includes sugar, which is why their lattes taste sweeter than traditional matcha. For the closest flavor, use ceremonial grade matcha and add sweetener to taste.

Why is my homemade matcha latte bitter?

Bitter matcha usually results from using water that's too hot (over 180°F) or low-quality matcha powder. Use water around 175°F and invest in good quality matcha for the best results.

Can I make this with non-dairy milk?

Yes, oat milk or coconut milk work best as alternatives since they froth well and have a creamy texture. Avoid almond milk as it tends to be too thin and doesn't create good foam.

How much caffeine is in a matcha latte?

One tablespoon of matcha contains about 70mg of caffeine, roughly equivalent to a shot of espresso. This makes it a great alternative to coffee with a more sustained energy boost.

Can I make matcha latte ahead of time?

The matcha base can be whisked and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it's best to steam fresh milk and combine just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Starbucks Copycat

·drink

Starbucks Matcha Latte

Name: Matcha Latte
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 latte
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon matcha powder; 2 tablespoons hot water; 1 cup milk; 1-2 tablespoons simple syrup or sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

The Starbucks matcha latte recipe creates that perfectly balanced, creamy green tea drink that has become a coffeehouse staple for matcha lovers everywhere. Starbucks uses their signature matcha powder blend mixed with steamed milk and a touch of sweetness to create a smooth, earthy beverage with just the right amount of caffeine. What sets their version apart is the quality of the matcha and the precise ratio that avoids the grittiness or bitterness that can plague homemade attempts. Making this drink at home not only saves you money but also lets you control the sweetness level and use higher-quality matcha if desired. The key is getting that signature bright green color and smooth, frothy texture that makes each sip feel like a luxurious treat. With the right technique and ingredients, you can recreate that familiar Starbucks experience in your own kitchen, complete with the ceremonial whisking that makes matcha preparation so satisfying.

Prep

3 min

Cook

2 min

Total

5 min

Servings

Yield

1 latte

Difficulty

Easy

Equipment: Small whisk or matcha whisk · Small bowl · Milk frother or French press · 16 oz mug

Ingredients

matcha powder — ceremonial grade preferred1 tablespoon

hot water — 175°F, not boiling2 tablespoons

milk — 2% or whole milk works best1 cup

simple syrup or sugar — adjust to taste1-2 tablespoons

vanilla extract — optional1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

Prepare the matcha base

Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to eliminate any clumps. Add the hot water (make sure it's not boiling as this will make the matcha bitter) and whisk vigorously in a zigzag motion for 30-60 seconds until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. The paste should be bright green with no visible powder lumps. This step is crucial for preventing a gritty texture in your finished latte.

Heat and froth the milk

Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling, about 150-160°F. Remove from heat and use a milk frother, French press, or whisk to create foam. If using a French press, pump the plunger vigorously 10-15 times. The milk should be creamy and have a light foam on top, similar to the texture you get at Starbucks.

Combine and serve

Add the simple syrup and vanilla (if using) to your mug, then pour in the whisked matcha paste. Slowly add the hot frothed milk, pouring in a steady stream while stirring gently to combine. The drink should have a beautiful jade green color throughout. Top with any remaining foam and serve immediately while hot. The finished latte should be smooth, creamy, and have that distinctive earthy-sweet matcha flavor.

Pro tips for authenticity

▸Use high-quality ceremonial grade matcha for the best flavor - it makes a noticeable difference in taste and color compared to culinary grade.

▸Can't find matcha powder? Look in the tea section of most grocery stores, Asian markets, or order online. Avoid matcha that looks dull or yellowish.

▸Make simple syrup ahead by combining equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

▸Don't skip the sifting step - clumpy matcha will create an unpleasant gritty texture that won't dissolve properly.

▸Pairs perfectly with almond croissants, shortbread cookies, or any light pastry that won't overpower the delicate matcha flavor.

▸For an iced version, use cold milk and pour over ice after combining with the matcha base.

Refrigerator

Best consumed immediately, but leftover matcha base can be stored for up to 1 day

Freezer

Not recommended for freezing

Reheat

Gently reheat in microwave for 30-45 seconds, whisk before serving

Nutrition per serving

142

Calories

Protein

18g

Carbs

Fat

Fiber

125mg

Sodium

How does it compare to the real thing?

This homemade version captures about 90% of the Starbucks experience with the right matcha quality and technique. The flavor profile is nearly identical - earthy, slightly sweet, and creamy. The main difference is that Starbucks uses their pre-sweetened matcha blend, so their version might taste slightly more uniform in sweetness. The texture of homemade can actually be superior if you take time to properly whisk the matcha and froth the milk. While you won't get the exact same foam art, the taste and satisfaction are remarkably close to the original, and you can customize the sweetness to your preference.

Frequently asked questions

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