Matcha Martini
Matcha Martini 🍸 is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 1. 512 calories per serving. Recipe by Callum Coles on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 1 min | Total: 12 min
Cost: $7.11 total, $7.11 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 oz Vodka (2 standard shots (1.5 oz per shot), chilled)
- 3 oz White Chocolate Liqueur (2 shots, chilled; e.g., Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur)
- 1 tsp Matcha Powder (High‑grade culinary grade, sifted)
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Syrup (Adds a subtle sweetness; store‑bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Ice (Cubed, preferably clear ice for best dilution)
Instructions
Measure Vodka
Using a jigger, pour 3 oz (2 shots) of chilled vodka into the cocktail shaker.
Time: PT30S
Add White Chocolate Liqueur
Measure and add 3 oz (2 shots) of white chocolate liqueur to the shaker.
Time: PT30S
Incorporate Matcha and Vanilla
Sift 1 tsp of matcha powder into the shaker, then add 1 tbsp vanilla syrup.
Time: PT30S
Add Ice
Fill the shaker with about 1 cup of cubed ice, enough to chill the mixture quickly.
Time: PT30S
Shake Vigorously
Seal the shaker and shake hard for about 15–20 seconds until the outside feels frosty.
Time: PT1M
Strain into Glass
Place the fine‑mesh strainer over a chilled martini glass and pour the cocktail through, discarding the ice.
Time: PT30S
Garnish (Optional)
Dust a tiny pinch of matcha on the surface or add a thin slice of white chocolate for visual flair.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 512
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 28 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Dairy (white chocolate liqueur), Potential soy (matcha may be processed on shared equipment)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Vodka: Gin, White rum
- Instead of White Chocolate Liqueur: White chocolate syrup mixed with cream, Vanilla liqueur
- Instead of Matcha Powder: Green tea powder (lower grade), Spirulina (for color only, not flavor)
- Instead of Vanilla Syrup: Simple syrup + a dash of vanilla extract, Honey (use less, as it adds flavor)
Equipment Needed
- Cocktail Shaker
- Jigger
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Martini Glass
- Small Whisk or Bamboo Matcha Whisk (Chasen) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Properly dissolve the matcha powder to avoid gritty texture.
- Shake until the shaker is frosty to ensure the cocktail is well‑chilled and emulsified.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Chill the martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes for a crisp presentation.
- For an extra frothy texture, add a splash of heavy cream before shaking.
- If you cannot find white chocolate liqueur, combine 1 oz white chocolate syrup with 2 oz vodka as a quick substitute.
Troubleshooting
Matcha remains grainy and does not fully dissolve.
Whisk the matcha with a teaspoon of hot water to form a smooth paste before adding it to the shaker.
Cocktail is too watery after shaking.
Use larger ice cubes and shake for a shorter time, or reduce the amount of ice.
Drink is overly sweet.
Reduce the vanilla syrup to ½ tbsp or omit it entirely; balance with a splash more vodka.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any leftover cocktail in a sealed container for up to 24 hours; re‑shake before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended – alcohol lowers the freezing point and can affect texture.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than a few hours; flavor degrades quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑measure the vodka and liqueur into a small bottle for quick assembly.
- Prepare a matcha paste (matcha + a splash of water) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of matcha in Japanese cuisine?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that originated in Zen Buddhist monasteries, where monks used it to stay alert during long meditation. It later became central to the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu), symbolizing mindfulness, respect, and harmony.
How was matcha traditionally served to samurai in feudal Japan?
Samurai were given a small bowl of matcha before battle to boost focus and calm nerves. The drink was prepared quickly, whisked with hot water, and consumed in one sitting to harness its caffeine and L‑theanine benefits.
What are the traditional regional variations of matcha‑based drinks in Japan?
In Kyoto, matcha is often served as a thick, frothy tea called usucha, while in the Kansai region a sweeter, milk‑based version called matcha latte is popular. Some regions also blend matcha with saké for a ceremonial cocktail.
What occasions or celebrations is a matcha martini traditionally associated with in modern Japanese‑inspired cocktail culture?
The matcha martini is a contemporary creation, often enjoyed at upscale bars, cocktail parties, and New Year celebrations where the vibrant green color symbolizes renewal and good fortune.
What other Japanese‑inspired cocktails pair well with a matcha martini?
A classic sake‑based cocktail like a Saketini, a yuzu‑infused highball, or a ginger‑shochu smash complement the earthy notes of a matcha martini and keep the flavor profile cohesive.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a matcha martini?
Common errors include not fully dissolving the matcha, over‑shaking which dilutes the drink, and using too much vanilla syrup which masks the delicate tea flavor. Follow the critical steps to ensure a smooth, balanced cocktail.
Why does this matcha martini recipe use white chocolate liqueur instead of regular chocolate liqueur?
White chocolate liqueur adds a creamy, buttery sweetness that complements the vegetal notes of matcha without introducing the bitterness of cocoa, creating a harmonious flavor balance.
Can I make the matcha martini ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can pre‑mix the vodka, white chocolate liqueur, matcha paste, and vanilla syrup in a sealed bottle and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving to restore the frothy texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when shaking the matcha martini?
The shaker should become noticeably frosty, and the liquid inside should turn a smooth, jade‑green hue with a light, velvety mouthfeel. A proper shake also creates a thin, glossy film on the surface of the poured cocktail.
How do I know when the matcha martini is done shaking?
When the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch (frosted) and you hear a muted “clink‑clank” as the ice moves, the cocktail has been chilled and diluted enough—typically after 15–20 seconds of vigorous shaking.
What does the YouTube channel Callum Coles specialize in?
The YouTube channel Callum Coles focuses on quick, modern cocktail recipes and mixology tips, often featuring creative twists on classic drinks and approachable techniques for home bartenders.
How does the YouTube channel Callum Coles' approach to Japanese‑inspired cocktails differ from other cocktail channels?
Callum Coles blends traditional Japanese ingredients like matcha with Western spirits, emphasizing simplicity and visual flair, whereas many other channels stick to either pure Japanese sake cocktails or classic Western mixes.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
