Healthy Matcha Latte Starbucks Copycat Recipe (Vegan)

I absolutely do not consider the Matcha Latte as an authentic tea, but I order it just about every time I am at a Starbuck’s. But a healthy matcha latte Starbucks version is what I was after – better yet, a vegan version.

So, I made my own – and have to say I was pretty impressed with myself because it is really good.

Below is a list of my favorite tools and ingredients to use when making a matcha latte.

• Milk frother
• Small bamboo whip
• Small mixing bowl
• Teaspoon
• High-quality matcha tea powder
• Organic coconut or almond milk
• Honey, maple syrup or stevia to sweeten (optional)

Another recipe you might love: Dalgona Whipped Coffee Recipe

What is Matcha?

Matcha (抹茶) is a green tea that is reduced to very fine powder. It is traditionally used in tea ceremonies in Japan.

It can also be used as an aroma in the preparation of milk drinks, cakes, soba noodles, etc. When used it also colors dishes and drinks with a vivid green depending on the dosage and cooking.

Matcha is very rich in antioxidants and is now readily available pretty much everywhere, but I recommend you choose an organic matcha.

Many replace their good old afternoon Starbucks latte with this much healthier version that leaves a feeling of freshness, gives a lasting energy gain and especially without this unwanted effect “the big push” of late afternoon that is often associated with coffee.

Here’s a popular matcha powder that we can recommend:

What Matcha tea to use for your latte?

I will always advise you to leave on matcha tea of culinary grade for your latte. Choose a premium powder. This way you will keep all the benefits associated with matcha tea.

The matcha tea, which I recall, is very rich in antioxidants, amino acids and chlorophyll, responsible for its beautiful bright green color. Among the amino acids contained in matcha tea, L-theanine is the most widespread and is known to have a relaxing effect on the mind and body, hence the habit for monks to sip matcha tea to facilitate meditation.

In addition, the subtle caffeine content helps with concentration, which could be because theanine increases serotonin, dopamine, and glycine levels in the brain.

What milk to use?

You do not want to use regular milk when making this recipe. Matcha green tea and animal milk do not go well together, since milk can interfere with the absorption of antioxidants from green tea.

Of course if you are vegan, that is a great thing.

The best alternatives are coconut milk or almond milk. Since I started my transition to a vegan diet, almond milk has become a staple in my house. I absolutely love it.

Coconut milk and almond milk are both loaded with healthy fats. Fats are good for your health! They help our body absorb key nutrients, taste delicious, and play an essential role in producing hormones and maintaining the health of our cells.

Speaking of milk, our homemade horchata is a wonderfully refreshing drink I highly recommend you try as well.

Don’t have the right utensils?

No problem, you can still make a matcha latte!

Instead of the step using a bamboo whisk, just add a small amount of hot water into a cup with the matcha tea and use the back of a spoon to stir and make a smooth green paste. Finish by adding the remaining hot water and coconut milk. Sweeten with stevia, honey or maple syrup (optional).

The second option is to use a blender, which of course is easier! Just add all the ingredients to the blender and mix for about 1 minute.

Healthy Starbucks Matcha Latte Recipe

This recipe requires a little bit of work, but the result is so worth it!

And for my vegan friends, it is not a problem to make it vegan friendly or regular. Honey and milk are not vegan, but I have included alternatives that are safe!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup coconut milk or organic almond milk
• 1 teaspoon high quality matcha tea powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey, maple syrup (for vegans)
• A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)
• Natural soy milk or other nut/vegetable milk (for the foam)

Preparation

1. Add the matcha tea powder to a small amount of hot water in the matcha tea bowl or in your favorite cup.
2. Using the bamboo whisk, whisk sharply downwards to make a thick, green paste.
3. Then pour the rest of the hot coconut milk and water into the batter and stir. If you add a sweetener, add it here.
4. Matcha will dissolve quickly and easily.
5. If you use a milk frother, place it on top of the latte and light it, allowing it to foam and foam to the desired texture. Another option is to reserve a portion of the hot coconut milk and foam it separately in a cup, then gently pour the matching cup of tea.