We all know that matcha lattes are a trendy, delicious way to enjoy the powerful benefits of matcha while indulging in a creamy, frothy drink. But did you know there's a specific way to make a traditional matcha latte using ceremonial-grade matcha?

In this recipe, we'll walk you through the steps to create a perfect, smooth matcha latte that's not only delicious but also honors the traditional way of preparing matcha. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let's make sure we have everything we need for the perfect matcha latte. Here's the list:

• 2g of Matcha (preferably ceremonial-grade, like Matsukaze, Saegreen, Shikifusa, or Ogura-yama)

• 150cc of Heated Milk (any milk of your choice)

• Sugar (to taste, depending on how sweet you like your drink)

It's essential to use high-quality matcha for the best flavor. The tea should be fine and vibrant green to ensure you get that rich matcha taste and smooth texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Your Matcha Latte

Now that we have everything ready, let's get into the preparation steps. Making a matcha latte is easy once you get the hang of it, and we'll guide you through each step.

1. Preheat the Milk

Start by heating the milk to the desired temperature. You can do this using a milk steamer, microwave, or on the stove. We recommend heating it to about 150°F (65°C) for the perfect creamy texture. If you like a frothy latte, you can use a milk frother to get some nice foam on top.

2. Preheat the Matcha Bowl

While your milk is heating up, take your matcha bowl and warm it by adding hot water and then discarding it. This step helps prevent the matcha from clumping when we add the hot liquid. A warm bowl also helps keep your drink at the right temperature.

3. Sift the Matcha into the Bowl

Next, it's time to prepare the matcha. Use a fine sifter to sift the matcha powder into the pre-warmed bowl. This step ensures that the matcha is free of lumps and will dissolve smoothly into the milk later. It's important to use a sifter or tea strainer to get that perfect consistency.

4. Add a Small Amount of Hot Water to the Matcha

Pour just a small amount of hot water into the matcha powder (about 20-30ml). Using a bamboo whisk or a regular whisk, gently stir the matcha and water in a circular motion. The goal here is to create a smooth, paste-like consistency. Whisk until the matcha is completely dissolved and there are no lumps.

5. Pour in the Heated Milk

Once your matcha is perfectly mixed, slowly pour the heated milk into the bowl with the matcha paste. Stir gently to combine the two, ensuring the matcha and milk blend together smoothly. If you want to add sugar to your matcha latte, now is the time to stir it in. Keep the sweetness at a level you prefer, but remember that matcha itself has a subtle bitterness that pairs well with a lighter sweetness.

6. Add the Foam (Optional)

If you have a milk frother, now's the time to froth your milk. Frothing the milk adds a delightful creaminess to the drink and makes it visually appealing. Once you've frothed the milk, gently pour the foam over the matcha latte for a smooth, velvety finish. If you don't have a frother, you can skip this step and still enjoy a delicious matcha latte.

7. Enjoy Your Matcha Latte!

Your matcha latte is now ready! Take a moment to admire the vibrant green color and the smooth texture. Sip slowly and enjoy the rich, calming flavor of the matcha combined with the creamy milk. It's a perfect drink to enjoy during your morning routine or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Final Thoughts

Making a traditional matcha latte may take a bit more time than simply adding matcha powder to your milk, but trust us – it's worth it. Using ceremonial-grade matcha and taking the time to prepare it properly elevates the flavor and the experience. Whether you're a matcha enthusiast or just getting started, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious, calming beverage that's both satisfying and beneficial to your health.

Lykkers, do you enjoy making matcha lattes at home? What's your favorite way to prepare them? Share your thoughts with us!

Matcha Tutorial Lesson 3: Making Matcha Lattes (Barista-Approved!)

Video by Crafti