Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte At Home
Highlighted under: Sweet Homemade Goodness
I love making my own iced strawberry matcha latte at home because it combines my two favorite flavors: the earthy richness of matcha and the sweet, refreshing taste of strawberries. Each sip is a delightful experience that energizes me, especially on warm days. I enjoy experimenting with the sweetness, adjusting the amount based on my mood. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into my drink makes it all the more satisfying. This drink is not just visually appealing but also a wonderful way to enjoy matcha's health benefits with a fruity twist.
When I first combined matcha with strawberries, I didn't expect such a vibrant, delicious drink to emerge. The matcha's slight bitterness pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the strawberries, creating a balanced flavor profile that I can't get enough of. I recommend using fresh strawberries whenever possible for the best taste, and blending the fruit just right to keep some texture.
I’ve also found that whisking the matcha before adding any milk helps to eliminate clumps, resulting in a smoother drink. This little step has transformed my iced matcha game, ensuring a silky-smooth finish every time!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The perfect blend of earthy matcha and sweet strawberries
- Refreshing and energizing for hot days
- Customizable sweetness to suit your preference
Choosing the Right Strawberries
When selecting strawberries for your iced strawberry matcha latte, look for vibrant, plump berries with a sweet aroma. Fresh strawberries will make a significant difference in flavor and brightness in your drink. Avoid berries that are dull or overly soft, as these may indicate overripeness and can affect the overall taste of your latte. When possible, opt for organic strawberries, as they tend to have more intense flavors and fewer pesticides.
For the best purée consistency, make sure your strawberries are at room temperature before blending. Cold strawberries can lead to a thicker texture, making it harder to incorporate them with the milk and matcha later on. If you're making this drink during the off-season, frozen strawberries can be a good alternative. Just thaw them before blending to maintain sweetness and flavor.
Perfecting Your Matcha
The quality of matcha powder is crucial for a delicious iced strawberry matcha latte. Look for ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor and vibrant green color, as it has higher quality leaves and a more delicate taste. In your mixing bowl, ensure the warm water is not boiling (around 175°F or 80°C is ideal) to avoid bitterness. Whisk vigorously until you achieve a smooth, glossy mix, which should take about 30 seconds.
If you're new to matcha, it's worth starting with a lower quantity, then adjusting to taste. This drink is all about balance; with the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the milk, ensure the matcha flavor shines through without being overpowering. If you find the matcha is overbearing, you can dilute it further with more milk to achieve your preferred flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberry Purée
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and maple syrup or honey. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
Mix the Matcha
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tablespoons of warm water until smooth and clump-free.
Assemble the Latte
In a glass, add a generous amount of ice cubes. Pour the strawberry purée over the ice, followed by the milk. Spoon the whisked matcha on top and give it a gentle stir to combine.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, try adding a dollop of whipped cream on top or garnishing with additional strawberry slices for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This iced strawberry matcha latte is a wonderful base for creativity. You can enhance it by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor depth. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a few strawberry slices on top for a beautiful presentation. Serving it in a transparent glass truly showcases its stunning layers and color, making it perfect for gatherings or brunch.
If you're planning a special occasion, consider preparing a larger batch of the strawberry purée in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, so you can assemble individual servings quickly. This makes it convenient to share with friends or family, especially during warm weather when a refreshing drink is more than appreciated.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
While this iced latte is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, store the purée and matcha separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The strawberry purée will stay fresh for about three days, keeping its flavor and consistency intact. However, avoid mixing with ice, as this will dilute the drink and affect the texture once stored.
To make your preparation even easier the next time, you can pre-measure your matcha powder and maple syrup in individual containers or bags. That way, you'll save time and ensure you have the right proportions, allowing you to whip up this latte quickly. This is especially helpful for busy mornings when you might want a refreshing drink on the go.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just allow them to thaw slightly before blending.
→ Is matcha safe for kids?
Yes, in moderate amounts matcha is generally safe for children. Always consult with a pediatrician if concerned.
→ What can I substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer.
→ How do I store leftover matcha?
Leftover matcha should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, and consumed within a few days.
Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte At Home
I love making my own iced strawberry matcha latte at home because it combines my two favorite flavors: the earthy richness of matcha and the sweet, refreshing taste of strawberries. Each sip is a delightful experience that energizes me, especially on warm days. I enjoy experimenting with the sweetness, adjusting the amount based on my mood. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into my drink makes it all the more satisfying. This drink is not just visually appealing but also a wonderful way to enjoy matcha's health benefits with a fruity twist.
Created by: Amelia Grant
Recipe Type: Sweet Homemade Goodness
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice cubes
How-To Steps
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and maple syrup or honey. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tablespoons of warm water until smooth and clump-free.
In a glass, add a generous amount of ice cubes. Pour the strawberry purée over the ice, followed by the milk. Spoon the whisked matcha on top and give it a gentle stir to combine.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, try adding a dollop of whipped cream on top or garnishing with additional strawberry slices for presentation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 6g