A visually stunning and energizing beverage, the Iced Matcha Espresso Fusion Latte layers the vegetal notes of matcha green tea with creamy milk and a bold shot of espresso. This vibrant fusion drink offers both the calming properties of matcha and the quick boost of espresso, all in a beautifully photogenic presentation that’s as delightful to sip as it is to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This latte is the perfect blend of energy and elegance. It provides a balanced pick-me-up through both matcha and coffee, and its distinct layers make it a showstopper at any brunch table or café-inspired home moment. Whether served hot or iced, this drink is easy to prepare and fully customizable with your favorite milk and sweeteners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
1/4 cup hot water (about 175°F/80°C)
3/4 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based), steamed or frothed
1 shot (1 oz) fresh espresso
1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
Ice (if serving iced)
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with hot water using a bamboo whisk or small frother until smooth and slightly frothy. Set aside.
- Steam or froth your preferred milk until creamy. Stir in sweetener if using.
- For a hot latte, pour matcha into a mug, then add the milk gently to preserve layers.
- Slowly pour the shot of espresso over the top to create a dark final layer.
- For an iced version, fill a tall glass with ice first, then layer the matcha, milk, and finally the espresso.
- Serve immediately without stirring for the best visual effect.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Iced Vanilla Matcha Fusion: Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the milk.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix 1 teaspoon cocoa powder into the matcha layer for a mocha-style drink.
- Coconut Milk Version: Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Stronger Coffee: Use a double shot of espresso if you prefer more coffee flavor.
- Sweetened Matcha Base: Mix matcha with a sweetened matcha syrup for convenience.
- Decaf Option: Use decaffeinated espresso or coffee for a gentler version.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed fresh.
- Storage: If needed, you can store the prepared drink in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours, though the layers will blend.
- Reheating: Reheating is only applicable to the hot version—warm gently over low heat and re-froth the milk if desired.
FAQs
What’s the best matcha for this drink?
Ceremonial grade offers a smoother flavor and brighter color, but high-quality culinary grade works well too.
Do I need a bamboo whisk?
A bamboo whisk (chasen) helps create a smoother matcha, but a handheld frother or small whisk also works.
Can I make this drink sweet?
Yes, you can add maple syrup, honey, agave, or simple syrup to the matcha or milk layer.
What kind of milk froths best?
Whole milk froths well, but oat, almond, and soy milk are great plant-based options. Choose barista-style for better foam.
Can I make it without espresso?
You can use strong brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate as a substitute.
Why do the layers separate?
The different densities of matcha, milk, and espresso cause natural layering. Pour slowly for best results.
Is matcha high in caffeine?
Matcha has less caffeine than coffee, offering a gentler, sustained energy boost.
Can I serve it warm instead of iced?
Yes, follow the same steps but skip the ice and use steamed milk.
Is this drink vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk and sweetener to keep it fully vegan.
Can I use instant espresso?
Yes, dissolve 1–2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder in hot water to mimic a shot of espresso.
Conclusion
The Iced Matcha Espresso Fusion Latte brings together the best of two energizing worlds—smooth, grassy matcha and rich, bold espresso. Its layered beauty and complex flavor profile make it a favorite among matcha lovers and coffee drinkers alike. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this drink is a refreshing and sophisticated way to elevate your daily beverage ritual.
Print
Iced Matcha Espresso Fusion Latte
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A beautifully layered drink combining earthy matcha green tea, velvety milk foam, and bold espresso poured over the top—visually striking and energizing with every sip.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
- 1/4 cup hot water (not boiling, about 175°F/80°C)
- 3/4 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based), steamed or frothed
- 1 shot (1 oz) fresh espresso
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
- Ice (if serving iced)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy. Set aside.
- Steam or froth milk to create a creamy layer. Sweeten if desired.
- Pour matcha into a clear glass or mug. Add frothed milk slowly to preserve layers.
- Gently pour the freshly brewed espresso shot over the top to create the final dark layer.
- For an iced version, fill glass with ice before layering. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ceremonial grade matcha for a smoother flavor and vibrant color.
- Oat or almond milk froths well for dairy-free versions.
- Adjust sweetness and milk ratio to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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