How to Make the Best Iced Matcha Latte + 5 Japanese Desserts That Go With It

I’ve always been a huge fan of matcha, and when summer rolls around, nothing hits the spot quite like a refreshing iced matcha latte. It’s creamy, slightly earthy, and packed with antioxidants—basically, a perfect pick-me-up that feels both indulgent and healthy at the same time. Plus, the best part? It pairs beautifully with traditional Japanese desserts!

But wait, summer is not yet here and it’s still pretty cold out there, should i have to wait till June to enjoy the best iced Matcha Latte? Diffenitly no!

So, If you’ve ever sipped on a cold matcha latte and thought, this could use a little something sweet on the side, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make the best iced matcha latte at home—smooth, perfectly blended, and just the right balance of rich green tea flavor and creamy goodness. Then, we’ll explore five must-try Japanese sweets that complement matcha’s deep, umami taste. Whether you love chewy mochi, fluffy dorayaki, or crispy taiyaki, there’s a Japanese dessert here that will take your matcha experience to the next level.

Ready to whip up the ultimate iced green tea latte and discover the best Japanese desserts to enjoy with it? Let’s dive in!

What Is an Iced Matcha Latte? (And Why It’s So Popular)

If you’ve ever had a refreshing iced matcha latte, you know it’s more than just a trendy drink—it’s a creamy, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying way to enjoy the magic of matcha green tea. But what makes this drink so special? Let’s dive into its history, benefits, and why it’s the perfect choice for warm weather!

What Is Matcha? A Brief History & Why Uji Matcha Is the Best

Matcha isn’t just any green tea—it’s a finely ground powder made from specially grown tea leaves that have been shaded before harvest to boost their chlorophyll and amino acid content. This process gives matcha its vibrant green color, rich umami taste, and smooth texture. Unlike regular green tea, where you steep the leaves and discard them, matcha is whisked into water or milk, meaning you consume the entire tea leaf—and all of its nutrients!

Matcha has been around for centuries, originally introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks who used it for meditation and focus. Today, it’s deeply rooted in Japanese tea culture, with the highest-quality matcha coming from Uji, a region in Kyoto known for its perfect climate, mineral-rich soil, and time-honored cultivation techniques. If you’re looking for a truly smooth, vibrant, and well-balanced matcha experience, Uji Matcha is the gold standard!

Why Iced Matcha Latte Is Better Than Hot in Summer

I love a warm, frothy matcha latte in the colder months, but when summer hits? Iced matcha latte is my go-to drink. Here’s why:

✔️ Cool & Refreshing – There’s something about the combination of ice-cold milk and earthy matcha that’s instantly cooling and satisfying, especially on a hot day.
✔️ Hydrating & Energizing – Unlike coffee, which can sometimes be dehydrating, matcha gives you a steady boost of energy without the crash, making it the perfect summer sip.
✔️ Creamy Yet Light – A well-made iced matcha latte is smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet without feeling heavy, making it an easy drink to enjoy anytime.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, heading out for a summer picnic, or just need an afternoon pick-me-up, iced matcha latte is the ultimate summer companion!

Health Benefits of Matcha Latte: More Than Just a Delicious Drink

As much as I love matcha for its taste and versatility, I also love how good it is for you. Here are some of the biggest health perks:

✔️ Packed with Antioxidants – Matcha contains catechins, powerful antioxidants that help fight free radicals and support overall health. In fact, it has more antioxidants than regular green tea!
✔️ Boosts Energy Without Jitters – Thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, matcha gives you a calm, focused energy boost without the crash of coffee.
✔️ Supports Metabolism & Fat Burning – Some studies suggest that matcha can help increase fat oxidation, making it a great pre-workout drink or metabolism booster.
✔️ Rich in Vitamins & Minerals – Matcha is full of vitamin C, selenium, chromium, zinc, and magnesium, which all contribute to overall well-being.

Honestly, it’s one of the few drinks that feels like a treat while also doing something great for your body—a total win-win!

Best Matcha Grade for Lattes: Ceremonial vs. Culinary

Not all matcha is created equal, and if you’ve ever bought a random green powder that tasted bitter or grainy, chances are it wasn’t the right grade for lattes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

☕ Ceremonial Grade – The highest-quality matcha, made from the youngest tea leaves, with a naturally sweet, smooth flavor. Best for traditional tea ceremonies or when drinking matcha with just water.
🥛 Culinary Grade – Slightly stronger and more robust in flavor, making it perfect for lattes, baking, and smoothies. It’s a little more affordable and blends well with milk and sweeteners.

For the perfect iced matcha latte, I recommend high-quality culinary grade matcha—it gives you a bold flavor that balances beautifully with milk while still maintaining matcha’s signature smoothness.

Bottom Line? If you haven’t tried iced matcha latte yet, you’re seriously missing out! It’s refreshing, packed with health benefits, and pairs perfectly with Japanese desserts. And now that you know the basics, let’s get into how to make the absolute best iced matcha latte at home!

How to Make the Best Iced Matcha Latte at Home

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own iced matcha latte at home. Not only do you get to control the quality and sweetness, but you also get that perfect creamy, frothy goodness every time—without spending a fortune at a café! And trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions.

Let’s dive into everything you need to make the best iced matcha latte, plus a few pro tips to get it smooth, vibrant, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of an iced matcha latte is that it requires just a few simple ingredients. But don’t let the short list fool you—each one plays a big role in making the perfect drink!

✔️ Matcha Powder – The star of the show! Look for high-quality culinary or ceremonial grade matcha with a vibrant green color. The fresher, the better!
✔️ Milk – You can go with whole milk for creaminess or a non-dairy option like oat, almond, or soy for a lighter, plant-based latte.
✔️ Sweetener (Optional) – Some people love the natural earthiness of matcha, but if you prefer it a little sweeter, use honey, maple syrup, agave, or simple syrup.
✔️ Ice – Lots of it! The more ice, the more refreshing your latte will be.
✔️ Water – Just a small amount of hot water is needed to properly dissolve the matcha powder before mixing it with milk.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s make magic happen! 🍵✨

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the perfect iced matcha latte is all about getting the right texture and balance. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a café-quality drink in no time!

1. Whisk the Matcha Like a Pro

This step is crucial! Matcha powder doesn’t dissolve like instant coffee—it needs to be whisked or shaken properly to prevent clumps and bring out that signature frothy texture.

Option 1: Traditional Bamboo Whisk
✅ Add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to a bowl.
✅ Pour in 2 ounces (¼ cup) of hot water (not boiling—around 175°F is perfect).
✅ Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) and whisk vigorously in a zigzag “M” or “W” motion until the matcha is smooth and foamy.

Option 2: Shaker or Blender Method (No Whisk? No Problem!)
✅ Add matcha and hot water to a jar with a lid or a blender bottle.
✅ Shake it vigorously for 30 seconds until fully mixed.

Both methods work great—the key is making sure there are no clumps before adding milk!

2. Get That Smooth, Frothy Texture

Now it’s time to build the perfect latte. Here’s how:

1. Fill a glass to the top with ice—the more, the better!
2. Pour in your choice of milk (about ¾ cup).
3. Slowly pour your whisked matcha over the milk.
4. Stir gently (or leave it layered for that cool ombré effect before mixing!).

And voilà—you’ve got yourself a beautiful, refreshing iced matcha latte!

Best Milk Options: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy

The type of milk you choose will affect the taste and creaminess of your latte. Here are some of my favorites:

🥛 Whole Milk – Extra creamy and slightly sweet on its own. A great choice if you love a richer latte.
🌿 Oat Milk – My personal favorite for matcha! It’s naturally sweet, creamy, and blends beautifully.
🥥 Almond Milk – Light, nutty, and a good low-calorie option.
🥜 Soy Milk – Similar to whole milk in texture but completely plant-based. Great if you want a thicker, creamier latte.
🥛 Coconut Milk – Adds a slightly tropical twist and pairs well with matcha’s earthiness.

Tips for the Perfect Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

Want to take your homemade iced matcha latte to the next level? Here are a few pro tips:

✔️ Avoid Clumps at All Costs – Always sift your matcha before whisking, and never skip the hot water step. This ensures a super smooth drink.
✔️ Adjust the Sweetness – Start with a small amount of sweetener and taste as you go—matcha has a natural sweetness that you don’t want to overpower.
✔️ Experiment with Flavors – Try adding a drop of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a touch of honey for a unique twist.
✔️ Use High-Quality Matcha – The difference between a bitter matcha and a smooth, vibrant one is fresh, high-quality powder. Always go for bright green matcha with no added fillers!

Now that you’ve got the perfect iced matcha latte recipe, it’s time to pair it with something sweet! Next, let’s talk about five delicious Japanese desserts that go perfectly with this refreshing drink.

5 Best Japanese Desserts That Go Perfectly with Iced Matcha Latte

If you’re sipping on a refreshing iced matcha latte, why not take it to the next level with a classic Japanese dessert? 🍵✨ The natural earthiness of matcha pairs beautifully with sweet, delicate flavors, making for an indulgent yet balanced treat. Whether you love chewy mochi, fluffy dorayaki, or a rich matcha cheesecake, there’s something here to satisfy your cravings.

Let’s dive into the best Japanese desserts to enjoy alongside your iced matcha latte!

🍡 1. Mochi – The Classic Chewy Delight

Mochi is the ultimate Japanese sweet treat—soft, chewy, and filled with a variety of flavors. It’s made from glutinous rice that’s pounded into a smooth, stretchy dough and then shaped into small, bite-sized cakes.

Best Mochi Flavors to Pair with Matcha

Since iced matcha latte has a slightly earthy and bitter undertone, it pairs wonderfully with sweet and creamy mochi fillings:

✅ Red Bean (Azuki) – A traditional, lightly sweet filling that complements matcha’s umami flavor.
✅ Matcha Mochi – Because you can never have too much matcha! Double up on the green tea goodness.
✅ Strawberry (Ichigo Daifuku) – A refreshing fruit-based option with a juicy whole strawberry inside.

Where to Buy or How to Make Mochi at Home

Mochi is easy to find in Asian grocery stores, Japanese bakeries, and online. But if you’re up for a fun kitchen project, you can make your own at home with just glutinous rice flour, sugar, and your favorite fillings!

🍪 2. Dorayaki – The Sweet Japanese Pancake

Dorayaki is Japan’s answer to a pancake sandwich, and it’s a matcha latte’s best friend! This sweet treat consists of two fluffy, honey-flavored pancakes filled with a thick layer of sweet red bean paste (anko).

Why Dorayaki Complements Iced Matcha Latte

Dorayaki’s soft, cake-like texture soaks up just the right amount of matcha latte, making every bite a blend of sweet, earthy, and creamy flavors. Plus, the mild bitterness of matcha balances out the sweetness of the red bean filling perfectly!

Want to Try Making It?

Dorayaki is surprisingly easy to make at home! If you’ve got eggs, flour, sugar, and a bit of honey, you’re already halfway there. If you’re short on time, you can also find pre-made dorayaki in Japanese grocery stores or order them online.

🐟 3. Taiyaki – The Crispy, Fish-Shaped Pastry

Taiyaki isn’t just adorable—it’s one of the most delicious street snacks in Japan! These crispy, fish-shaped pastries are made from a pancake-like batter and filled with a variety of sweet fillings.

Best Taiyaki Fillings to Pair with Iced Matcha Latte

Since matcha has bold, umami-rich flavors, it pairs wonderfully with these taiyaki fillings:

✅ Custard Cream – A smooth, velvety contrast to matcha’s slight bitterness.
✅ Chocolate – Because chocolate and matcha are a match made in heaven!
✅ Azuki Red Bean – A classic filling that highlights matcha’s natural flavors.

Where to Find Taiyaki

If you’re lucky enough to be in Japan, you’ll find taiyaki everywhere—from street vendors to department stores. Outside Japan, check out Japanese bakeries or specialty dessert shops. Want to try making it at home? A taiyaki pan is all you need!

🍵 4. Yokan – The Refreshing Jelly Dessert

Yokan is a traditional Japanese jelly-like dessert made with agar, red bean paste, and a touch of sweetness. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs beautifully with an iced matcha latte on a hot day.

Why Yokan and Matcha Latte Are a Perfect Pair

✅ Smooth, Jelly-Like Texture – The firmness of yokan contrasts nicely with the creamy, frothy texture of matcha.
✅ Just the Right Sweetness – It’s not overly sugary, making it a great companion for matcha’s bold flavors.
✅ Refreshing and Cooling – Perfect for a hot summer day when you need something light!

How to Make It at Home

Yokan is surprisingly easy to make—all you need is agar, red bean paste, and water. If you’re not in the mood to DIY, you can find pre-made yokan at Japanese grocery stores or online.

🍰 5. Matcha Cheesecake – The Ultimate Green Tea Dessert

If you’re a matcha lover, this dessert is a must-try! Matcha cheesecake combines the rich, tangy creaminess of cheesecake with the deep, earthy tones of matcha, creating an indulgent yet sophisticated treat.

Why Matcha Cheesecake is a Perfect Pairing

✅ Creamy & Velvety – The smoothness of cheesecake complements the frothy texture of iced matcha latte.
✅ Sweet Meets Earthy – The slight tang of cream cheese balances matcha’s natural bitterness.
✅ Can Be No-Bake! – If you want a simple, hassle-free dessert, a no-bake version is super easy to make.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

While matcha cheesecakes are available in some Japanese bakeries, nothing beats making it yourself! A no-bake version requires just cream cheese, matcha, sugar, and a simple biscuit crust—and it tastes absolutely divine.

Final Thoughts

Pairing your iced matcha latte with a classic Japanese dessert is a game-changer! Whether you prefer the chewy texture of mochi, the fluffy pancakes of dorayaki, or the rich creaminess of matcha cheesecake, each of these sweets brings out the best in your latte.

So, which dessert are you craving the most? Let me know in the comments! And if you try one of these pairings, don’t forget to snap a pic and share your experience.

Wrapping Up Your Iced Matcha Latte Journey

Wow, what a journey! From learning what makes an iced matcha latte so irresistible to discovering the best Japanese desserts to pair with it, I hope you’re as excited as I am to recreate these delightful treats at home. Every sip of a perfectly made iced matcha latte and every bite of a sweet mochi or dorayaki is a mini celebration of Japanese culinary art. Remember, the secret to matcha magic is all in the details—using high-quality ingredients, whisking with passion, and savoring every moment of the process. So grab your favorite matcha powder, mix it up with your choice of milk, and let your taste buds travel to Japan. O shokuji o o tanoshimi kudasai wich mean Bon Appétit!

Iced Matcha Latte Recipe: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is an iced matcha latte?
A1: It’s a refreshing blend of high-quality matcha powder, hot water, milk (or a dairy alternative), and ice—perfect for cooling down while enjoying a healthy energy boost.

Q2: How do I make the best iced matcha latte at home?
A2: Sift your matcha, whisk it with a bit of hot water until smooth and frothy, then mix with ice, your favorite milk, and sweetener to taste.

Q3: Is an iced matcha latte healthy?
A3: Yes! It’s rich in antioxidants, offers a steady energy boost thanks to matcha’s unique caffeine and L-theanine combo, and can be made even healthier with your choice of milk.

Q4: What Japanese desserts pair well with an iced matcha latte?
A4: Delicious options include mochi, dorayaki, taiyaki, yokan, and matcha cheesecake—each complementing matcha’s earthy flavor perfectly.

Feel free to drop any more questions in the comments below, and happy matcha adventures!