Matcha Tutorial Lesson 3: Making Matcha Lattes (Barista-Approved!)
Matcha Tutorial Lesson 3: Making Matcha Lattes (Barista-Approved!) is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 1. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Crafti on YouTube.
Prep: 11 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 23 min
Cost: $40.19 total, $40.19 per serving
Ingredients
- 2.5 g Ceremonial Matcha Powder (high‑quality, finely sifted for a smooth latte)
- 2 oz Water (room‑temperature water for initial whisking, then hot water (~190°F) added later)
- 2 oz Oat Milk (any plant‑based milk works; oat milk gives a creamy texture)
- 4 pieces Ice Cubes (for an iced version; optional for hot latte)
- 1 tsp Honey (optional) (natural liquid sweetener; easier to dissolve than granulated sugar)
Instructions
Measure Matcha
Place 2.5 g of ceremonial matcha into the measuring scoop or onto a digital scale and transfer it to the matcha bowl.
Time: PT1M
Sift Matcha
Sift the measured matcha through a fine mesh sieve into the bowl to break up any clumps.
Time: PT1M
Add Room‑Temp Water
Pour 2 oz of room‑temperature water over the sifted matcha.
Time: PT30S
Whisk to Froth
Using the bamboo whisk, whisk in an “M” motion for about 30‑45 seconds until a thin layer of froth forms on the surface.
Time: PT45S
Add Hot Water
Heat another 2 oz of water to just below boiling (≈190°F) and gently stir it into the whisked matcha to bring the latte to serving temperature.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: 190°F
Prepare Milk (and Sweetener)
Measure 2 oz of oat milk; if desired, stir in 1 tsp honey until dissolved.
Time: PT1M
Assemble the Latte
In a serving glass, add the ice cubes, then pour the oat milk, and finally gently pour the matcha mixture over the back of a spoon so it floats atop the milk, creating distinct layers.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Enjoy immediately while the froth is fresh and the layers are visible.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 12 g
- Fat
- 4 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan (omit honey), Gluten‑Free (use certified gluten‑free oats)
Allergens: Oats, Honey
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ceremonial Matcha Powder: culinary grade matcha, organic green tea powder
- Instead of Oat Milk: almond milk, soy milk, dairy milk
- Instead of Honey (optional): agave syrup, maple syrup, stevia liquid
Equipment Needed
- Bamboo Matcha Whisk (Chasen)
- Matcha Bowl (Chawan)
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- 1‑Gram Measuring Scoop
- Serving Glass or Mug
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Sifting the matcha to avoid clumps
- Whisking until a frothy layer appears
- Adding hot water just below boiling to prevent bitterness
- Layering the matcha over milk for visual appeal
Chef Tips from the Video
- A bamboo whisk creates the finest micro‑foam compared to electric frothers
- For an extra‑cold drink, chill the serving glass beforehand
- Adjust sweetness to taste; agave or maple syrup work well for a vegan version
Troubleshooting
Matcha remains clumpy after whisking
Ensure the matcha is sifted before whisking and whisk vigorously in an “M” motion until fully dissolved.
Latte tastes bitter
Use water that is below boiling (≈190°F) and reduce the amount of matcha if needed.
Layers mix together instead of staying separate
Pour the matcha mixture over the back of a spoon onto the milk; also keep the milk cold before layering.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any unused ceremonial matcha powder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Not recommended for prepared latte; ice can be stored in the freezer.
Room temperature: Prepared latte should be consumed within 2 hours at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑measure and store matcha in a small airtight container
- Sift matcha into a bowl and cover it if you plan to whisk later
- Keep oat milk chilled and ready to pour
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of matcha latte in Japanese‑inspired café culture?
Matcha latte blends traditional Japanese powdered green tea with Western milk‑based coffee culture, creating a modern café staple that honors the ceremonial preparation of matcha while offering a creamy, approachable drink for global audiences.
What traditional regional variations of matcha drinks exist in Japan compared to the barista‑style matcha latte?
In Japan, matcha is traditionally served hot and unsweetened in a tea ceremony bowl, while regions like Kyoto also enjoy matcha with a small amount of sugar. The barista‑style latte adds steamed or cold milk and often sweeteners, creating a fusion that differs from the pure tea experience.
How is a barista‑quality matcha latte authentically served in Japanese‑inspired cafés?
Authentic cafés serve it in a clear glass or ceramic cup, layering cold milk (or oat milk) beneath a frothy matcha top, often topped with a thin layer of foam and sometimes a light dusting of matcha powder for visual appeal.
During which occasions or celebrations is matcha latte commonly enjoyed in modern Japanese café culture?
Matcha latte is popular for everyday brunches, afternoon tea breaks, and seasonal celebrations such as cherry‑blossom festivals, where cafés may offer limited‑edition flavored versions.
What other Japanese‑inspired drinks pair well with a matcha latte?
A matcha latte pairs nicely with traditional wagashi sweets like mochi or dorayaki, as well as with Japanese‑style pastries such as melon pan or anko‑filled buns.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a barista‑quality matcha latte at home?
Common errors include using boiling water, which creates bitterness; skipping the sifting step, leading to clumps; and whisking insufficiently, resulting in a thin, un‑frothy surface.
Why does this recipe use a bamboo whisk instead of an electric frother for the matcha?
A bamboo whisk creates a finer micro‑foam and gently incorporates the delicate matcha powder without over‑aerating, preserving the tea’s nuanced flavor better than most electric frothers.
Can I make the matcha latte ahead of time and store it?
You can prepare the matcha‑water mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but the froth and layered presentation are best enjoyed immediately after assembly.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the matcha latte is done?
The finished latte should have a thin, glossy froth on top, a clear separation between the milk and matcha layers, and a vibrant green hue that contrasts with the creamy milk beneath.
What does the YouTube channel Crafti specialize in?
The YouTube channel Crafti focuses on beginner‑friendly beverage tutorials, especially tea‑based drinks, offering clear step‑by‑step guidance and tips for achieving café‑quality results at home.
How does the YouTube channel Crafti's approach to Japanese‑inspired drinks differ from other tea channels?
Crafti emphasizes practical home‑kitchen tools, uses everyday ingredients like oat milk, and provides detailed visual cues for techniques such as whisking, setting it apart from channels that rely on professional equipment or purely traditional methods.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
