Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte

Name: Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon matcha powder; 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Hot water, to dissolve matcha

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love starting my day with a vibrant cup of Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte. The combination of earthy matcha and sweet strawberries creates a delightful harmony that’s not only invigorating but also soothing. I remember the first time I made this drink; the enchanting aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn't wait to sip on its creamy goodness. This latte is perfect for cozy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, and it's so easy to make right at home. Try it, and it just might become your new favorite!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:46:19.017Z

When I first experimented with a matcha latte, I wanted to add something special to elevate the traditional flavor. After a few trials, I discovered that fresh strawberries complemented matcha beautifully, bringing a burst of sweetness and a vibrant color. The key is to blend the strawberries until smooth, allowing their natural flavor to shine through.

Not only does this latte taste amazing, but it's also packed with antioxidants from the matcha and vitamin C from the strawberries. I always incorporate a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the overall taste and add a comforting warmth. It’s a delicious indulgence that feels wholesome!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The refreshing combination of strawberries and earthy matcha
A cozy drink that warms you from the inside out
Great source of antioxidants to kickstart your day

      

Understanding Matcha

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves, and its flavor is unique, ranging from slightly bitter to sweet with vibrant grassy notes. Using high-quality matcha is essential for a pleasant taste; look for a bright green color and a fine texture. To enjoy the full benefits of matcha, it's best to whisk it with hot water until you achieve a frothy consistency before adding it to your latte. This ensures a smooth blend and a delightful mouthfeel.

When choosing matcha, consider its grade; ceremonial grade is ideal for drinking but may be more expensive, while culinary grade can be used in lattes and desserts. My personal favorite for lattes provides excellent taste and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal of the drink. Remember to store matcha in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and prevent oxidation.

Perfecting Your Strawberry Purée

Preparing the strawberry purée is a crucial step in achieving the perfect Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte. Fresh strawberries add a bright, fruity flavor that complements the earthy matcha. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, thawed and drained, although this may result in a slightly less vibrant color. Blend until smooth, and for added texture, you may want to leave a few small chunks intact.

When sweetening your purée, honey or maple syrup works wonderfully, but the quantity can be adjusted to suit your taste. I recommend starting with less sweetener, as you can always add more later. If you prefer a less sweet drink, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to enhance the strawberries' natural tartness, balancing the flavors perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an elegant presentation, consider serving your Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte in clear glass mugs to showcase the vibrant layers. You can also top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional matcha for a beautiful finish. If you're feeling adventurous, try garnishing with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist that complements the strawberries and matcha beautifully.

To scale up this recipe for multiple servings, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly while ensuring to whisk each batch of matcha with sufficient hot water for a smooth blend. Additionally, this latte can be enjoyed iced for warmer days; simply chill the milk after heating and pour it over the strawberry and matcha mixture with ice cubes for a refreshing treat.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon matcha powder
2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Hot water, to dissolve matcha

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries and honey or maple syrup. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Dissolve the Matcha

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with a splash of hot water until fully dissolved and smooth.

Heat the Milk

In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine and Serve

Pour the strawberry puree into two cups, add the dissolved matcha, and gently stir to combine. Top with the hot milk and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a frothier latte, use a milk frother or a whisk to create foam after heating the milk. You can also experiment with different milk types for varying flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover strawberry purée, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. This makes it convenient for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. Just give it a quick stir before using it again, as it may separate slightly. Unfortunately, matcha lattes are best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can affect the texture of the milk and the flavor intricacies.

For optimal freshness, try to prepare only what you can consume in one sitting. However, if you have extra matcha mixed with hot water, it can be kept for a short period, but the fresh flavor diminishes quickly due to oxidation. Remember to whisk it again before serving to reinvigorate that frothy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your matcha clumping when mixed with hot water, ensure the water is not boiling; around 175°F (80°C) is ideal. Using a sifter before whisking can also prevent clumps for an ultra-smooth texture. Additionally, the ratio of matcha to milk can be adjusted based on personal taste; don't hesitate to experiment until you find the perfect balance that suits you.

When heating the milk, watch closely to avoid boiling, as this can create a skin on top and alter the flavor. Stirring continuously while heating can help prevent this. If your latte seems too thick, consider adding a splash of water or more milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Flavor Enhancements

Beyond the ingredients listed, there are countless ways to customize your Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte to suit your taste preferences. Incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic touch. For a creamier texture, you might consider using oat milk, which complements both strawberries and matcha nicely.

Moreover, experimenting with different sweeteners can also introduce unique flavors; for instance, agave syrup or coconut sugar can alter the sweetness profile. If you enjoy nuts, adding a sprinkle of crushed almonds or pistachios on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to let them thaw slightly for easier blending.

→ Is matcha good for you?

Absolutely! Matcha is rich in antioxidants and can boost your metabolism and promote relaxation.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! Use almond, soy, or coconut milk and maple syrup instead of honey to keep it vegan.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or syrup according to your taste preference.