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Hot matcha latte in a ceramic mug with a thin layer of milk foam

Matcha Latte with Soft Foam and a Clear Tea Flavor

Hot green tea drink made with sifted matcha powder whisked with 175°F water, sweetened with maple syrup, and topped with gently warmed and frothed milk.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Beverage, Drinks
Cuisine: American, Japanese
Calories: 135
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon 2 g pure unsweetened matcha powder
  • 60 ml ¼ cup water, heated to 175°F (80°C)
  • 180 ml ¾ cup 2% milk
  • 2 teaspoons 10 ml pure maple syrup

Equipment

  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Bamboo whisk or handheld frother
  • Kitchen thermometer

Method
 

  1. Sift the matcha powder through a fine-mesh sieve into a wide bowl, pressing small lumps through the mesh with the back of a dry spoon.
  2. Heat the measured water to 175°F (80°C). Pour it over the sifted matcha and whisk vigorously with a bamboo whisk or handheld frother for 20 to 30 seconds, until no dry specks or lumps remain at the bottom of the bowl.
  3. Stir in the maple syrup, sweeping the bottom of the bowl to fully incorporate it. Check again for any dry green pockets before proceeding.
  4. Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until it reaches 140 to 150°F (60 to 65°C). Remove from heat before it boils.
  5. Froth the warm milk for 10 to 20 seconds with a handheld frother just below the surface to create a shallow layer of fine bubbles.
  6. Pour the matcha tea into a 10 to 12 oz mug first, then add the warmed milk. Stir gently and spoon any remaining foam on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For an iced matcha latte: prepare the tea and syrup as directed, then pour over 1 cup of ice and cold milk in a 16-oz glass. Skip the heating and frothing steps.
  • Store any leftover prepared drink covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before drinking as the powder naturally settles. Do not leave a milk-based drink at room temperature beyond 2 hours.
  • Use pure unsweetened matcha powder only — not a presweetened latte blend. A blend's scoop is not interchangeable with 1 teaspoon of pure matcha, and the syrup amount will need adjustment.