This Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte is smooth, refreshing, and lightly sweet with a creamy finish and the earthy richness of high-quality matcha. If you love café-style matcha drinks, this homemade version gives you the same vibrant green color, frothy texture, and mellow vanilla aroma — but fresher and less sugary. It’s the perfect energizing drink for warm mornings, study sessions, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Matcha provides calm, focused energy thanks to its natural L-theanine, making it a favorite for balanced caffeine without jitters. Blended with cold milk, vanilla, and a touch of sweetener, it becomes a silky iced latte that tastes luxurious yet light and clean. Pour it over ice, watch the layers swirl, and enjoy a sip of calm in your day.
This latte takes just a few minutes to prepare, and once you master the whisk-then-pour method, you’ll never feel the need to buy one from a café again. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and as beautiful as it is delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Simple ingredients make this latte shine — and you can adjust it to suit your taste.
Matcha Powder: Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the best color and flavor. Culinary-grade works in a pinch but may taste more bitter.
Milk: Dairy milk gives the creamiest texture, while oat, almond, or coconut milk create a plant-based latte. For extra richness, use barista-style oat milk.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and sweetness that complements matcha’s earthy flavor. A small amount of vanilla syrup can replace both vanilla and sweetener.
Sweetener: Honey, maple syrup, agave, simple syrup, or vanilla syrup work well. Adjust to taste or omit for a naturally lighter drink.
Water: Hot (but not boiling) water helps dissolve matcha smoothly. 160–175°F is ideal (about the temperature of hot bath water).
Equipment You’ll Need
- Bamboo matcha whisk (chasen) or handheld milk frother
- Bowl or small mixing cup
- Spoon or small sieve for sifting matcha
- Glass for serving
- Ice cubes
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Vanilla Sweet Cream: Top with a splash of vanilla-flavored half-and-half or sweet cream.
- Coconut Matcha: Use coconut milk and add shredded coconut flakes on top.
- Honey Matcha: Sweeten with honey and add a pinch of cinnamon.
- Mint Matcha: Add muddled mint to the glass before pouring.
- Protein Boost: Blend in vanilla protein powder with milk.
- Matcha Affogato: Serve over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert version.
How to Make Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon high-quality matcha powder
- 2–3 tablespoons hot water (not boiling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 cup milk of choice, cold
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
Just 3–5 minutes — a quick and easy café-quality drink at home.
Step-By-Step Instructions:
1. Sift the Matcha
Sift matcha powder into a small bowl to remove clumps and ensure a silky finish.
2. Whisk With Hot Water
Add hot water and whisk in a zig-zag motion until the matcha dissolves and becomes frothy and smooth.
3. Add Vanilla & Sweetener
Stir in vanilla (and honey or syrup if using) until combined.
4. Fill a Glass With Ice
Fill your serving glass with plenty of ice to keep the latte cold and layered.
5. Pour Milk & Matcha
Pour cold milk over the ice, then slowly pour the matcha mixture on top. The layers will swirl beautifully.
6. Stir Before Drinking
Give a gentle stir before sipping to blend flavors evenly.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
A few small tricks make a big difference in flavor and smoothness.
- Don’t use boiling water: It can burn matcha and create bitterness.
- Sift first: Sifting prevents clumps and ensures silky results.
- Chill your milk: Cold milk keeps the latte refreshing and crisp.
- Adjust sweetness: Start with less and build to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this latte dairy-free?
Yes — almond, oat, coconut, and soy milk all work beautifully. Oat milk creates the richest café-style texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Whisk the matcha in a larger bowl and divide between two glasses.
Can I prep the matcha ahead of time?
You can whisk the matcha and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before using.
Can I make it without a matcha whisk?
Yes — use a milk frother or shake vigorously in a jar until smooth and frothy.