My husband wasn’t really into green tea before, but once I made this iced matcha latte at home, everything changed. He said it tasted even better than the store-bought one because it was less sweet and more balanced. The Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte is one of those drinks that brings calm and energy together in one sip—smooth, earthy, and beautifully balanced. Its vibrant green hue and creamy texture make it a favorite for anyone who enjoys something refreshing yet cozy. In fact, it’s now our weekend tradition—every Saturday morning, I whisk up two glasses while we enjoy breakfast together. It’s a lovely way to start the day with something light, energizing, and a little indulgent.

I have experimented with different types of matcha and milk, but I’ve learned that the secret is in the quality of your matcha and how you whisk it. I use ceremonial-grade matcha for a rich, clean taste and oat milk for its creamy, slightly sweet flavor. Always whisk the matcha properly—it makes a huge difference in how smooth and frothy your drink will be.

You can serve this drink in a tall glass filled with ice, topped with a touch of vanilla syrup, or even with a sprinkle of matcha powder for presentation. It’s also lovely with a side of almond cookies, granola bars, or light pastries for an afternoon treat.

It’s Perfect For:

• Relaxing afternoons when you want something cool and energizing.
• A quick morning boost that’s gentler than coffee.
• Summer brunches or backyard hangouts with friends.
• A mid-day pick-me-up during study or work sessions.
• Impressing guests with a beautiful, café-style drink.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ teaspoons matcha green tea powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
• 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling, around 175°F / 80°C)
• 1 cup cold milk (dairy or plant-based like oat, almond, or soy)
• 1–2 teaspoons honey, sugar, or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Bamboo whisk or electric frother
• Small bowl (for mixing matcha)
• Tall glass or tumbler
• Measuring spoons and cup
• Fine-mesh strainer (to sift matcha)
• Spoon or straw for stirring

How to Make Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte

Step 1

Prepare the matcha base. In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove any lumps. Add the hot water and whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a handheld frother until the matcha is completely dissolved and slightly frothy on top. This step ensures a smooth, lump-free latte with a clean green color.

Step 2

Sweeten your latte. Add honey, sugar, or your preferred sweetener directly to the warm matcha mixture. Stir until fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness depending on how close you want it to taste to the original Starbucks version (they tend to make it fairly sweet).

Step 3

Assemble the drink. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes—about ¾ full is perfect. Pour the cold milk over the ice, leaving a bit of room on top. Then, slowly pour the whisked matcha mixture over the milk. This creates the signature two-layer effect, with the vibrant green matcha floating above the creamy white milk.

Step 4

Mix and enjoy. Before drinking, stir the matcha and milk together with a straw or spoon until the color becomes a consistent light green. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. Serve immediately for a refreshing, café-style iced latte that’s perfectly balanced between earthy and creamy.

Tips for the Perfect Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte

• Use high-quality matcha. Choose ceremonial or premium-grade matcha—it’s vibrant in color, smoother in taste, and never bitter.
• Avoid boiling water. Matcha burns easily; use hot (but not boiling) water at about 175°F (80°C).
• Sift before whisking. This ensures a clump-free, silky drink and helps the matcha dissolve evenly.
• Whisk quickly in a “W” motion. This technique creates a light froth that gives your latte a café-like creaminess.
• Sweeten while warm. Adding sugar or syrup to warm matcha helps it blend better and avoids grainy texture.
• Fill your glass with ice. It not only cools the drink but also creates that pretty layered look.
• Try flavor variations. Add a hint of vanilla, coconut, or almond to personalize your matcha experience.

Optional Ingredients

• Vanilla syrup (for sweetness and aroma)
• Coconut milk (for a tropical flair)
• Cinnamon powder (adds gentle spice)
• Collagen powder (boosts protein and smooth texture)
• Mint leaves (refreshing and cooling)
• Whipped cream (for a dessert-style touch)

How to Serve Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte?

I always start by filling my glass generously with ice cubes, about three-quarters full. Then I pour in the cold milk, making sure to leave space on top for the matcha layer. The key to that stunning Starbucks-style presentation is pouring the whisked matcha slowly over the milk, letting it float and form that gorgeous green gradient. It’s not just delicious—it’s a drink that looks picture-perfect every time.

I like serving it with a reusable straw so the layers mix beautifully as you sip. The first few sips give you creamy milk followed by the earthy matcha flavor, and once stirred, it turns into a silky, balanced drink that’s both refreshing and smooth. You can dust a little matcha on top or add a drizzle of vanilla syrup for extra charm.

I often enjoy mine in the afternoon with something light like a croissant, oatmeal cookies, or fruit salad. It’s ideal when I need a break from work and want a moment of calm. Sharing it with someone makes it even better—there’s something about the ritual of whisking, pouring, and sipping that feels comforting and mindful.

Is Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte Healthy?

Yes, it definitely can be! Matcha is known for being high in antioxidants, especially catechins, which help fight free radicals and boost energy naturally. It contains caffeine, but in smaller amounts than coffee, giving you a calm alertness without jitters. To keep it healthy, use unsweetened milk and natural sweeteners like honey or agave. This way, you enjoy all the benefits—focus, freshness, and flavor—without unnecessary sugar or calories.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vanilla Matcha Latte: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or syrup for a smooth, mellow flavor.
• Coconut Matcha Latte: Replace milk with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
• Honey Matcha Latte: Swap sugar for honey to add natural sweetness and floral notes.
• Protein Matcha Latte: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a post-workout boost.
• Mint Matcha Latte: Add crushed mint leaves or peppermint extract for a refreshing taste.
• Brown Sugar Matcha Latte: Sweeten with brown sugar syrup for a caramel-like richness.
• Almond Matcha Latte: Use almond milk for a nutty, low-calorie version.
• Strawberry Matcha Latte: Layer strawberry puree at the bottom for a colorful, fruity version.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover matcha latte in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake it well before serving since the matcha tends to settle at the bottom. Keeping it cold and sealed helps maintain its color and freshness.

If you prefer it warm later, skip the ice and heat the milk gently before whisking in your matcha. Don’t boil it; just warm enough to sip comfortably. This gives you a cozy hot version perfect for chilly days without losing the vibrant flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte

Can I make this drink without a bamboo whisk?
Yes, absolutely. You can use a handheld milk frother or a small blender. The goal is to dissolve the matcha completely and create that frothy top layer that makes it extra smooth and creamy.

What’s the best milk to use for a Starbucks-style taste?
Oat milk is the closest in flavor to Starbucks’ version—it’s creamy, slightly sweet, and blends perfectly with matcha. However, almond milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk all work wonderfully depending on your preference.

Can I make it sugar-free or low-calorie?
Yes! Skip the syrups and use monk fruit, stevia, or a dash of vanilla extract for sweetness without calories. Unsweetened almond or oat milk also helps reduce sugar intake.

Why does my matcha taste bitter?
Bitterness often comes from using boiling water or low-quality matcha. Use water around 175°F and buy bright green, finely ground ceremonial-grade matcha for the best taste.

Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Drinks, BeverageCuisine: Japanese-AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Make the perfect Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte at home! This easy, creamy, and refreshing recipe includes serving ideas, healthy tips, fun variations, and FAQs to help you craft a flawless café-style drink anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ teaspoons matcha green tea powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)

• 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling, around 175°F / 80°C)

• 1 cup cold milk (dairy or plant-based like oat, almond, or soy)

• 1–2 teaspoons honey, sugar, or simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

Directions

• Prepare the matcha base. In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove any lumps. Add the hot water and whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a handheld frother until the matcha is completely dissolved and slightly frothy on top. This step ensures a smooth, lump-free latte with a clean green color.
• Sweeten your latte. Add honey, sugar, or your preferred sweetener directly to the warm matcha mixture. Stir until fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness depending on how close you want it to taste to the original Starbucks version (they tend to make it fairly sweet).
• Assemble the drink. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes—about ¾ full is perfect. Pour the cold milk over the ice, leaving a bit of room on top. Then, slowly pour the whisked matcha mixture over the milk. This creates the signature two-layer effect, with the vibrant green matcha floating above the creamy white milk.
• Mix and enjoy. Before drinking, stir the matcha and milk together with a straw or spoon until the color becomes a consistent light green. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. Serve immediately for a refreshing, café-style iced latte that’s perfectly balanced between earthy and creamy.