Strawberry Matcha Latte: The Best Refreshing Green Tea Drink

Posted onDecember 17, 2025

Author: David Tag

The Strawberry Matcha Latte is one of those drinks that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. It blends the smooth, earthy taste of matcha with the bright sweetness of strawberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a warming cup on a cool morning or a chilled, creamy treat during warmer months, this latte is sure to hit the spot.

Strawberry Matcha Latte in a glass, iced green tea drink with strawberry syrup

Table of Contents

What is a Strawberry Matcha Latte?

A Strawberry Matcha Latte is a modern twist on the classic matcha latte, incorporating the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries. At its core, it’s a blend of matcha green tea, which is finely ground powdered green tea leaves, and strawberry puree or syrup, offering a naturally sweet contrast to the matcha’s slightly bitter flavor.

Understanding Matcha: The Base of the Latte

Matcha is more than just a trendy ingredient; it’s a centuries-old tea from Japan. What sets matcha apart from regular green tea is that the whole leaf is ground into a fine powder, which means you’re consuming the entire leaf, offering a richer taste and more health benefits. When mixed with milk (or a dairy alternative), it creates a creamy base for your latte, providing a smooth, earthy flavor that’s still light and refreshing.

Strawberries and Their Flavor Profile in Beverages

Strawberries are often a go-to fruit for adding a burst of natural sweetness. In a Strawberry Matcha Latte, they bring a fresh, fruity taste that balances out the green tea’s more herbal notes. The combination of strawberries and matcha isn’t just delicious—it’s also visually striking. The rich green color of matcha contrasts beautifully with the bright red of the strawberries, making this latte not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Strawberry Matcha Latte

To create the perfect Strawberry Matcha Latte, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a simple table to help you gather everything you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Fresh strawberries	4-5 medium berries	Fresh or frozen can be used
Matcha powder	1-2 teaspoons	Use high-quality matcha for the best flavor
Milk (or non-dairy option)	1 cup	Choose your preferred milk (e.g., almond, oat, or dairy)
Sweetener (optional)	1-2 teaspoons	Adjust to taste (honey, sugar, or maple syrup)
Ice cubes	As needed	For a chilled version

Fresh vs Frozen Strawberries: Which One to Use?

While fresh strawberries are often the go-to option for a latte, you can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Fresh strawberries tend to provide a slightly lighter, fresher taste and smoother texture, especially when pureed into syrup or blended into the drink. On the other hand, frozen strawberries may have a more concentrated flavor and can be more convenient, especially if you want to make an iced latte.

For a truly authentic strawberry flavor, you can also experiment by making your own strawberry syrup at home. Simply cook down fresh or frozen strawberries with a little sugar until they become a thick, sweet syrup, which can be drizzled over your matcha latte.

How to Make a Strawberry Matcha Latte at Home

Making a Strawberry Matcha Latte at home is easy and fun. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic steps, you can recreate this cafe favorite right in your own kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect drink.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Latte

Prepare the Matcha:
Start by sifting 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a bowl to prevent clumps. Add about 2 ounces of hot water (not boiling, around 175°F or 80°C) to the matcha powder and whisk it using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small handheld frother until the matcha is fully dissolved and the mixture is frothy.
Make the Strawberry Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of strawberries (fresh or frozen), 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the strawberries break down and the syrup thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Strain the syrup to remove the pulp, leaving behind a smooth, sweet strawberry syrup.
Assemble the Latte:
In a glass, add 1-2 tablespoons of strawberry syrup. Then, pour in your prepared matcha, followed by 6-8 ounces of milk or a milk alternative (like oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk). Stir gently to combine the flavors.
Top It Off:
If you like a creamy latte, feel free to froth your milk before pouring it in. Top the latte with a few extra strawberry slices for garnish or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Tips for Frothing Milk and Achieving the Ideal Texture

Frothing milk is an art that can take your strawberry matcha latte to the next level. If you want to get the perfect foam, here are some tips:

Use whole milk or oat milk: These have the best texture for frothing. Oat milk, in particular, creates a nice creamy foam that pairs well with matcha.
Froth in two stages: Start by heating the milk to about 150°F (65°C) before frothing it. Once heated, use a milk frother to create a creamy texture with small bubbles for a smooth finish.
Froth in a jar: If you don’t have an electric frother, you can shake hot milk in a jar with the lid tightly sealed. Shake it vigorously for 30-60 seconds to create foam.

How to Customize Your Strawberry Matcha Latte

One of the best things about a Strawberry Matcha Latte is how customizable it can be. From adjusting the sweetness to experimenting with different milk alternatives, there’s a lot of room for creativity. Here are some ideas to tailor the drink to your taste.

Adding Sweeteners: Honey, Agave, or Maple Syrup?

The Strawberry Matcha Latte is already sweet thanks to the strawberries, but if you like a little extra sweetness, there are several options to consider:

Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor that pairs well with matcha’s earthy taste. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for something more wholesome.
Agave Syrup: Agave syrup is a vegan-friendly alternative to honey and has a mild sweetness that blends easily with both matcha and strawberries.
Maple Syrup: For a cozy twist, you can use maple syrup. Its rich, warm flavor complements the earthy matcha and adds a layer of sweetness that works wonderfully with the fruity notes of strawberries.

You can start with one or two teaspoons of your chosen sweetener and adjust to your liking.

Alternative Milk Options for Dairy-Free Lattes

If you’re avoiding dairy, there are plenty of milk alternatives that work beautifully in a Strawberry Matcha Latte:

Oat Milk: Oat milk is a top choice because it has a creamy texture that mimics dairy milk. Its slight sweetness also pairs nicely with the matcha and strawberries.
Almond Milk: Almond milk is another popular choice, though it has a more neutral flavor. It can still complement the matcha and strawberry syrup, but it won’t overpower the flavors.
Soy Milk: Soy milk offers a thicker consistency compared to almond milk, and it’s a great option for those looking for a protein-rich alternative.
Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist, you can use coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor to your latte.

When choosing an alternative milk, be sure to pick one that froths well if you prefer a foamy texture.

Iced strawberry matcha latte served in a mason jar with whipped cream

Iced vs Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte: Which One to Choose?

One of the best things about a Strawberry Matcha Latte is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking for a warm, comforting drink or a cool, refreshing treat, you can easily adjust this recipe to suit your mood. Let’s take a look at the differences between making an iced vs. hot Strawberry Matcha Latte.

Making an Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte

An iced Strawberry Matcha Latte is a perfect choice when you’re craving something cool and refreshing. Here’s how to make it:

Prepare the Matcha: Follow the same steps for making the matcha base as you would for the hot version (sift the matcha powder, add hot water, and whisk it until frothy).
Prepare the Strawberry Syrup: Use fresh or frozen strawberries to make your syrup as usual.
Assemble the Iced Latte: In a tall glass, fill it with ice cubes. Add 1-2 tablespoons of strawberry syrup, then pour in the matcha mixture. Top it off with your milk or milk alternative, and stir it all together. You can also add a few extra strawberry slices for garnish.

For the best results, make sure the matcha is cooled slightly before adding it to the ice, as hot matcha can melt the ice too quickly and dilute the drink.

Crafting the Best Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte

If you’re in the mood for something warm and cozy, a hot Strawberry Matcha Latte is the way to go. Here’s how to make it:

Prepare the Matcha: Sift the matcha powder into a bowl, then whisk it with hot water (around 175°F or 80°C) until it’s smooth and frothy.
Heat the Milk: Gently heat your milk (or milk alternative) to about 150°F (65°C). Be careful not to boil it—just warm enough to create a smooth, velvety texture.
Combine: In your favorite mug, pour in the strawberry syrup, followed by the prepared matcha. Then, pour in the warm milk and stir gently. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of matcha powder if desired.

The hot version is perfect for colder months or whenever you need a warm pick-me-up. The creamy texture of the milk blends beautifully with the matcha and strawberry syrup, creating a comforting, rich drink.

Looking for a delicious breakfast pairing? Try these Greek Yogurt Bagels for a light, savory complement to your strawberry matcha latte.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Strawberry Matcha Latte

Making a Strawberry Matcha Latte sounds simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. From the texture to the flavor, here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your latte comes out perfectly every time.

1. Using Too Hot Water for the Matcha

One of the most common mistakes when making a matcha latte is using water that’s too hot. Matcha should be whisked with water that’s around 175°F (80°C), not boiling. If the water is too hot, it can burn the matcha powder, resulting in a bitter taste. To get the best flavor, use water that’s just below boiling—let it sit for a minute after boiling before whisking it with the matcha.

2. Not Sifting the Matcha Powder

Matcha powder tends to clump together, especially if it’s not sifted before use. These clumps can make your matcha base lumpy, affecting the smoothness of the final drink. Always sift the matcha powder into the bowl before adding water to ensure a smooth, lump-free base. Using a fine mesh strainer or a dedicated matcha sifter is the easiest way to do this.

3. Over-Sweetening the Drink

Strawberries already bring a natural sweetness to the latte, and adding extra sweeteners can sometimes make the drink too sugary. Start with a small amount of sweetener, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s harder to balance the sweetness once it’s too much. A little goes a long way, especially if you’re using store-bought strawberry syrup.

4. Skipping the Frothing Stage

If you’re making a hot strawberry matcha latte, don’t skip the frothing of the milk. Frothing helps create a smooth, creamy texture that elevates the drink. Even if you don’t have a frother, you can whisk the milk by hand or use a jar to shake it and create some foam. The froth gives the latte a more indulgent, velvety feel.

5. Not Using Fresh or High-Quality Ingredients

For the best Strawberry Matcha Latte, always use high-quality matcha and fresh strawberries. Low-quality matcha can have a bitter, dull flavor, and old strawberries won’t give your drink the fresh, vibrant sweetness it needs. If you’re making your own strawberry syrup, ensure the fruit is ripe and juicy to get the best possible flavor.

If you’re in the mood for something savory to balance the sweetness of your matcha latte, our Cottage Cheese Flatbread is the perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Matcha Lattes

To wrap up our guide, here are some commonly asked questions about the Strawberry Matcha Latte. These FAQs will help clear up any remaining doubts and offer additional tips to perfect your drink.

1. Can I make a Strawberry Matcha Latte without a whisk?

Yes, you can make a Strawberry Matcha Latte without a traditional matcha whisk (chasen). If you don’t have a whisk, you can use a small handheld frother, a milk frother, or even a spoon to mix the matcha and water. However, a whisk will give you the best results, ensuring the matcha is fully dissolved and frothy.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can work just as well as fresh ones in your latte. In fact, frozen strawberries often have a more concentrated flavor, which can make for a more intense strawberry syrup. You can either thaw them slightly or blend them directly into a smoothie or syrup.

3. How do I store leftover Strawberry Matcha Latte syrup?

You can store any leftover strawberry syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you make a large batch, consider freezing the syrup in ice cube trays so you can easily pop out a portion whenever you’re ready to make a latte.

4. Can I make this drink vegan?

Yes! A Strawberry Matcha Latte can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free milk alternatives, such as oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Just make sure to choose a vegan sweetener if you’re adding extra sugar or syrup.

5. How can I make my Strawberry Matcha Latte less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet drink, simply reduce the amount of strawberry syrup you use, or opt for a less sweetener like agave or stevia. You can also experiment with adding less sugar to the strawberry syrup, letting the natural sweetness of the strawberries shine through.

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Conclusion

The Strawberry Matcha Latte is more than just a trendy drink—it’s a delicious and customizable beverage that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, with extra sweetness or a more natural taste, this latte offers something for everyone. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this vibrant drink at home anytime you’re craving a special treat. So, grab your matcha, strawberries, and favorite milk, and enjoy this refreshing, health-boosting drink.