How to Prepare an Iced Matcha Latte

June 25, 2026

How to Make the Perfect Iced Matcha Latte at Home

Few drinks have captured the attention of tea lovers quite like the iced matcha latte. Combining the vibrant flavour of Japanese matcha with the creamy texture of milk, this refreshing beverage has become a favourite alternative to iced coffee around the world.

Unlike coffee-based drinks, matcha offers a unique balance of natural caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid naturally present in tea that contributes to a calm and focused feeling. When prepared with high-quality ceremonial grade matcha, an iced matcha latte delivers a rich umami taste, natural sweetness, and a beautiful emerald-green colour.

In this guide, we'll show you how to prepare a smooth, creamy, café-quality iced matcha latte at home using premium ceremonial grade Japanese matcha.

If you're new to matcha, our Ultimate Guide to Matcha explores everything from cultivation and grading to traditional preparation methods and tasting notes, helping you better understand what makes Japanese matcha so unique.

What Is an Iced Matcha Latte?

An iced matcha latte is a cold beverage made by whisking matcha powder with water and combining it with milk and ice.

Unlike traditional matcha, which is prepared using only water, a matcha latte offers a creamier texture and a milder flavour profile. The milk softens matcha's vegetal and umami notes while highlighting its natural sweetness.

Because matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves, you consume the entire leaf when drinking it. This makes matcha one of the most concentrated forms of green tea available.

Why Use Ceremonial Grade Matcha?

The quality of your matcha directly affects the taste, colour, and texture of your latte.

Ceremonial grade matcha is produced from carefully shaded tea plants and harvested from the youngest leaves. It is prized for its vibrant green colour, smooth mouthfeel, and balanced flavour.

Lower-grade matcha can often taste bitter, astringent, or dull in colour. While culinary matcha is suitable for baking and cooking, ceremonial grade matcha is generally preferred for drinking.

For the best results, we recommend using ceremonial grade Japanese matcha sourced from renowned tea-growing regions such as Uji and Wazuka in Kyoto Prefecture.

Internal link: Matcha Collection

Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

Ingredients

• 3g Tea Repertoire Ceremonial Grade Matcha

• 150ml warm water (70–80°C)

• 50–150ml milk of your choice

• Ice cubes

• Optional: honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup

Equipment

• Matcha bowl (chawan)

• Bamboo whisk (chasen)

• Fine sieve

• Tall serving glass

Method

Step 1: Sift the Matcha

Sift 3g of matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps. This simple step helps create a smoother and more consistent drink.

Step 2: Whisk the Matcha

Add 150ml of warm water and whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk until a smooth layer of foam forms on the surface.

Avoid using boiling water, as excessively high temperatures can negatively affect the flavour of matcha.

Step 3: Prepare the Glass

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Pour 50–150ml of milk over the ice, depending on your preferred strength and creaminess.

Step 5: Pour the Matcha

Slowly pour the whisked matcha over the milk to create the characteristic layered appearance.

Step 6: Stir and Enjoy

Mix before drinking and sweeten if desired.

Best Milk for an Iced Matcha Latte

One of the advantages of matcha lattes is their versatility. Different types of milk can highlight different aspects of matcha's flavour profile, from its natural sweetness to its rich umami character.

Oat Milk

Oat milk is often considered one of the best choices for matcha. Its natural sweetness complements matcha's umami notes while creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Dairy Milk

Whole milk produces a rich, velvety latte with a balanced flavour. Its creamy body helps soften matcha's vegetal notes while preserving its characteristic taste.

Soy Milk

Soy milk pairs particularly well with Japanese tea due to its creamy consistency and subtle flavour. It is a popular plant-based option for those seeking a fuller-bodied matcha latte.

Almond Milk

Almond milk offers a lighter texture and a delicate nutty note. It is an excellent choice for those who prefer a less creamy beverage that allows the flavour of matcha to remain at the forefront.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk creates a rich and indulgent iced matcha latte with subtle tropical notes. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of coconut milk pair surprisingly well with the fresh vegetal character of Japanese matcha, creating a smooth and refreshing drink. For a lighter option, coconut-based barista blends can provide creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavour of ceremonial grade matcha.

Ultimately, the best milk is the one that matches your personal taste preferences. Many matcha enthusiasts enjoy experimenting with different milk options to discover their perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and matcha intensity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Boiling Water

High temperatures can make matcha taste bitter. Aim for water between 70°C and 80°C.

Skipping the Sifting Step

Unsifted matcha can form clumps that are difficult to dissolve.

Using Low-Quality Matcha

The quality of your matcha significantly impacts the final flavour.

Adding Too Much Milk

Excessive milk can overwhelm the delicate flavour profile of ceremonial matcha.

Is an Iced Matcha Latte Healthy?

Matcha is naturally rich in catechins, a class of antioxidants found in green tea.

Because you consume the entire tea leaf, matcha provides a concentrated source of tea compounds compared to traditionally infused teas.

When prepared with little or no added sugar, an iced matcha latte can be a refreshing and balanced beverage suitable for everyday enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Caffeine Is in an Iced Matcha Latte?

A serving prepared with 3g of matcha typically contains more caffeine than standard green tea but generally less than many coffee beverages.

Can I Make an Iced Matcha Latte Without a Bamboo Whisk?

Yes. A handheld milk frother or shaker bottle can also be used, although a bamboo whisk remains the traditional method.

Can I Prepare It in Advance?

For the freshest flavour, it is best consumed immediately after preparation.

Is Oat Milk Good with Matcha?

Yes. Oat milk is one of the most popular choices because of its creamy texture and natural sweetness.

Pair Your Matcha with Traditional Tea Ware

Preparing matcha is not only about the drink itself but also about the experience.

Using traditional Japanese tea ware such as a bamboo whisk (chasen), matcha bowl (chawan), and bamboo scoop (chashaku) can help create a more authentic preparation ritual while improving consistency and texture.

Internal link: Matcha Accessories Collection

Discover Premium Japanese Matcha

At Tea Repertoire, we carefully source exceptional Japanese matcha from renowned tea-growing regions to deliver authentic flavour, vibrant colour, and outstanding quality.

Whether you are preparing traditional matcha or crafting the perfect iced matcha latte, choosing high-quality ceremonial grade matcha makes all the difference.

Explore our collection of premium Japanese matcha and elevate your daily tea ritual.

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