Matcha milk tea is a creamy, energizing drink made by blending Japanese green tea powder (matcha) with milk and a touch of sweetener. Served hot or iced, this beautiful green beverage is beloved for its earthy flavor, vibrant color, and unique health benefits. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make both hot and iced versions at home like a pro, plus get tips, variations, a printable recipe card, and answers to your most common questions.
Table of Contents
What Is Matcha Milk Tea?
It combines finely ground Japanese green tea (matcha) with milk (dairy or plant-based), a sweetener like honey or syrup, and sometimes chewy tapioca pearls (boba). Unlike regular green tea, matcha is made from whole leaves ground into a powder, meaning you consume the entire leaf, and all its antioxidant power.
Originating from the traditional tea ceremonies of Japan, matcha has surged in popularity worldwide, especially in bubble tea culture. Whether you’re craving a cozy warm drink or a refreshing iced version, it is a versatile and customizable treat you can master at home.
Benefits of Matcha Milk Tea
Why drink matcha milk tea instead of your usual coffee or latte? Here’s what makes it special:
| Benefit | What It Does |
|---|---|
| L-Theanine | Promotes calm focus without jitters |
| Caffeine | Provides a gentle energy boost |
| Antioxidants (EGCG) | Supports heart health and cell repair |
| Brain Function | Enhances alertness, memory, and mood |
| Stress Relief | Calming properties reduce anxiety |
Fun Fact: The caffeine in matcha is absorbed more slowly than coffee, giving you longer-lasting energy without a crash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Matcha Powder | Base flavor & color | Ceremonial (best), Culinary (ok) |
| Milk | Creaminess | Oat, almond, soy, whole, or 2% |
| Sweetener | Balances bitterness | Honey, maple syrup, agave, monk fruit |
| Hot Water | Whisks matcha into paste | Filtered preferred |
| Ice (optional) | For iced version | — |
| Tapioca Pearls (optional) | Boba tea style | Coconut jelly, aloe vera cubes |
How to Make Matcha Milk Tea at Home (Step-by-Step)
Hot Matcha Milk Tea
- Sift 1 tsp matcha powder into a bowl or mug.
- Add 2 tbsp hot water (not boiling) and whisk briskly in a zigzag “W” motion using a bamboo or handheld whisk until frothy.
- Heat ¾ cup milk until warm (not boiling).
- Add sweetener to taste (1-2 tsp is a good start).
- Combine whisked matcha and milk. Stir well and enjoy!
Iced Matcha Milk Tea
- Sift 1 tsp matcha into a cup or shaker.
- Add 2 tbsp hot water and whisk or shake until smooth.
- Stir in ½ – ¾ cup cold milk and 1- 2 tsp sweetener.
- Add ice and optional tapioca pearls.
- Shake or stir well before serving.
Pro Tip: Use ceremonial-grade matcha for a smoother, sweeter drink.
Troubleshooting Tips
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Clumpy matcha | Always sift before whisking |
| Bitter taste | Use cooler water (160 – 175°F) and better matcha |
| Separation | Whisk/shake thoroughly and drink fresh |
| Weak flavor | Try ceremonial-grade matcha or use more powder |
Variations & Customizations
- Vegan: Use oat or almond milk + maple syrup
- Keto: Use unsweetened almond milk + stevia or monk fruit
- Floral: Add rose water or lavender syrup
- Fruity: Blend with strawberry or mango puree
- Spiced: Try vanilla, cinnamon, or ginger
Storage Advice
Matcha milk tea is best enjoyed fresh, but you can:
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours
- Shake or stir before drinking (it will settle)
- Freeze matcha ice cubes to avoid watering down your drink
Frequently Asked Questions
What is matcha milk tea?
It is a green tea-based drink made by whisking matcha powder with milk and sweetener. It can be served hot or cold and often includes boba pearls for texture.
Is matcha milk tea healthy?
Yes, when made with high-quality matcha and moderate sweetener, it offers a balance of antioxidants, calming L-theanine, and mild caffeine. It’s a great coffee alternative.
How does matcha taste?
Matcha tastes grassy, earthy, and slightly bitter, but when paired with milk and sweetener, it becomes creamy, smooth, and delicious.
Does matcha taste good with milk?
Yes! Milk softens the bitterness of matcha, creating a velvety texture and mild flavor that appeals to many tea lovers.
Join the Matcha Community
Have you tried making matcha at home? Share your own twist or tip in the comments, or tag your photos with #MyMatchaMoment on Instagram for a chance to be featured!
For more Matcha flavors check this guide to Matcha Ninja Green Tea Latte or Matcha Chocolate Tea