Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced Version
Highlighted under: World Plate Inspirations
I absolutely love the combination of refreshing strawberries and the earthy taste of matcha, especially in this iced version of the Strawberry Matcha Latte. It’s the perfect drink for warm days or whenever I need a little pick-me-up. The vibrant green of the matcha paired with the bright red of the strawberries not only looks beautiful but also offers a delightful balance of flavors that I find irresistible. Let’s dive into this delicious treat that will surely brighten your day!
When I first tried a strawberry matcha latte, I knew I had to recreate it at home! The sweetness of the strawberries mixed with the unique bitterness of matcha is just magical. To avoid clumps, I learned to sift the matcha first, ensuring a silky smooth texture.
Over time, I perfected my method of layering the ingredients to create a beautiful presentation. The bright colors remind me of summer mornings, and each sip transports me to a sunny café. This iced version is great for a refreshing afternoon break!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and earthy matcha
- Aesthetic layers that make it perfect for social media
- Easy to make at home with minimal ingredients
Understanding Matcha
Matcha green tea powder is unique because it’s made from young tea leaves that are shade-grown for several weeks prior to harvest. This process increases the chlorophyll content, giving matcha its vibrant green color and earthy flavor. When incorporating matcha into your latte, it's crucial to use a fine powder and whisk it with hot water until fully dissolved. This ensures a smooth texture, preventing any clumps that could disrupt your beautifully layered drink.
Another key factor to remember is the temperature of the water used to mix with matcha. Ideally, it should be around 175°F (80°C), as boiling water can scorch the powder, leading to a bitter taste. If you don’t have a thermometer, allow boiling water to cool for a minute before adding it to the matcha. The smooth, creamy texture of properly whisked matcha is what elevates the overall experience of this Strawberry Matcha Latte.
Strawberry Selection Tips
When making your Strawberry Matcha Latte, the quality of the strawberries will greatly affect the final flavor. Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid those that have a dull color or are overly soft, as they may lack flavor and sweetness. If fresh strawberries aren't in season, frozen strawberries can be an excellent substitute—just thaw them first and blend without added sugars to maintain balance.
Also consider the sweetness level of your strawberries. If they aren’t sweet enough, you can adjust the amount of honey or sweetener in the recipe. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can also complement the strawberries’ flavor, providing an additional layer of richness in the drink without overwhelming the main ingredients.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced Version:
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon of matcha green tea powder
- 2 cups of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sweetener of choice
- Ice cubes
Make sure to choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your iced latte:
Blend the strawberries
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and honey. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
Prepare the matcha
In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to avoid clumps. Add a couple of tablespoons of hot water and whisk until fully dissolved.
Layer the latte
In a glass, fill the bottom with strawberry puree, add ice cubes, and slowly pour in the milk. Lastly, gently add the matcha mixture on top for a beautiful layered effect.
Serve and enjoy
Stir gently before drinking to combine the flavors and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Matcha Latte!
Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a dash of vanilla extract to the milk mixture before serving. It enhances the flavor even more!
Making Ahead and Storage
If you want to prep this delightful drink ahead of time, the strawberry puree can be made a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier experience when you're ready to serve. However, it's best to combine everything right before serving to maintain the structural integrity of the layers.
For the matcha mixture, prepare it just before you layer the drink. Matcha can lose its vibrant color and flavor if left too long once mixed with water. If you have any leftover latte, store it in the refrigerator for up to a day, but note that the vibrant green color of the matcha may fade and the layers will combine.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Strawberry Matcha Latte experience, consider serving it with a side of light snacks. Sweet almond biscotti or vanilla shortbread complements the drink well and highlights its fruity and earthy notes. Additionally, you can garnish your latte with a sprinkle of matcha or even a few slices of fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.
If you're feeling adventurous, try variations by adding a layer of coconut cream or using non-dairy milk such as oat or almond milk for a different flavor profile. These alternatives can give your latte a unique twist while still maintaining the refreshing essence of strawberries and matcha, making it customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well too. Just let them thaw slightly or blend them straight from the freezer with a bit of water.
→ What type of milk can I use?
You can use any milk you prefer, including almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
→ Is matcha safe for everyone?
Generally, matcha is safe for most people, but if you're sensitive to caffeine, consume in moderation.
→ How long does the latte stay fresh?
It's best enjoyed immediately; however, you can refrigerate any leftovers for up to 24 hours.
Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced Version
I absolutely love the combination of refreshing strawberries and the earthy taste of matcha, especially in this iced version of the Strawberry Matcha Latte. It’s the perfect drink for warm days or whenever I need a little pick-me-up. The vibrant green of the matcha paired with the bright red of the strawberries not only looks beautiful but also offers a delightful balance of flavors that I find irresistible. Let’s dive into this delicious treat that will surely brighten your day!
Created by: Noelle Chambers
Recipe Type: World Plate Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon of matcha green tea powder
- 2 cups of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sweetener of choice
- Ice cubes
How-To Steps
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and honey. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to avoid clumps. Add a couple of tablespoons of hot water and whisk until fully dissolved.
In a glass, fill the bottom with strawberry puree, add ice cubes, and slowly pour in the milk. Lastly, gently add the matcha mixture on top for a beautiful layered effect.
Stir gently before drinking to combine the flavors and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Matcha Latte!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a dash of vanilla extract to the milk mixture before serving. It enhances the flavor even more!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 5g