by Kayla Bell
As the summer sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a cool and invigorating drink to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds. Enter the iced matcha latte, a vibrant green beverage that’s not only delicious but also boasts a range of health benefits. Made with matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, this latte offers a unique combination of creamy sweetness and a subtle earthy flavor.
Matcha is a type of green tea originating from Japan. Unlike regular green tea where the leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha involves grinding the entire tea leaf into a fine powder. This results in a more concentrated source of antioxidants and nutrients compared to traditional green tea. Matcha boasts a vibrant green color due to its high chlorophyll content and is known for its calming yet energizing properties.
Iced Matcha Latte: Ingredients (Single Serving)
1 teaspoon of high-quality matcha powder (culinary grade)
½ cup milk of your choice (dairy or non-dairy)
¼ cup cold water
1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Ice cubes
Optional Add-Ins:
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
Whipped cream for a decadent touch
Instructions:
- Sift the matcha powder to help to break up any clumps and ensure a smooth latte. Use a fine-mesh sieve and gently tap the side to release the powder onto a small bowl or mug.
- Add a splash of cold water (about 1 tablespoon) to the sifted matcha powder. Using a bamboo whisk (or a milk frother if you don’t have one), briskly whisk the matcha and water together until a smooth, frothy mixture forms. There should be no lumps.
- If desired, add honey or maple syrup to the whisked matcha and stir to dissolve.
- In a separate container, fill a glass or pitcher with ice cubes. Pour in your chosen milk and, if using, add any additional flavorings like vanilla extract or spices.
- Slowly pour the whisked matcha mixture over the milk and ice cubes. Gently stir to combine. Take a sip and adjust the sweetness or milk-to-match ratio to your preference.
To elevate your iced matcha latte experience, prioritize high-quality ingredients. Seek out matcha powder with a vibrant green hue and a fresh, slightly grassy aroma. When whisking, remember that cold water is your friend – hot water leads to bitterness. Proper whisking is essential for a smooth and frothy latte; a bamboo whisk is ideal, but a milk frother can work in a pinch. Feel free to experiment with different milk options! Dairy milk provides a creamy texture, while plant-based kinds of milk like almond, oat, or soy offer delicious alternatives. Choose unsweetened varieties and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is a foundation for flavor exploration. Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming spice note; or try a splash of flavored extracts like vanilla or mint to personalize your perfect iced matcha latte.
For a more decadent iced matcha latte experience, try blending your matcha with ice and milk for a thicker, frappuccino-like consistency. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a truly indulgent treat.
The iced matcha latte is a versatile and refreshing drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day. With its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits, it’s no wonder this latte has become a popular choice for coffee and tea enthusiasts alike. So, grab your whisk, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy the invigorating taste of matcha in every sip!
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