Matcha Martini: The Next Big Thing?
MATCHA MARTINI: The Next Big Thing?! is a easy Japanese‑Inspired Cocktail recipe that serves 1. 134 calories per serving. Recipe by DAN FELLOWS coffee + cocktails on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 1 min | Total: 11 min
Cost: $35.53 total, $35.53 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 g Matcha Powder (high‑grade ceremonial grade, sifted to remove clumps)
- 36 g Cold Water (use chilled filtered water)
- 20 ml Vanilla Vodka (homemade: vodka infused with a vanilla pod for at least 24 h)
- 20 ml White Rum (good quality, light tropical notes)
- 15 ml Cane Sugar Syrup (Monin or homemade simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water))
- 1 g Saline Solution (fine sea salt dissolved in water (approx. 0.5 % solution))
- 150 g Ice (crushed or cubed, for shaking)
Instructions
Measure and Sift Matcha
Weigh 4 g of high‑grade matcha powder and sift it through a fine mesh sieve into a mixing bowl to eliminate clumps.
Time: PT1M
Add Cold Water
Add 36 g (ml) of chilled filtered water to the sifted matcha.
Time: PT30S
Whisk to Emulsify
Using a bamboo whisk, briskly whisk the matcha‑water mixture in a ‘W’ motion until a glossy, frothy surface forms.
Time: PT2M
Final Whisk for Smoothness
Give the matcha mixture one more quick whisk to ensure no remaining lumps.
Time: PT30S
Combine Cocktail Ingredients
Into a cocktail shaker, add the whisked matcha, 20 ml vanilla‑infused vodka, 20 ml white rum, 15 ml cane sugar syrup, and 1 g saline solution.
Time: PT1M
Add Ice and Shake
Fill the shaker with 150 g of ice, seal tightly, and shake hard for about 15–20 seconds until the shaker feels very cold.
Time: PT1M
Fine Strain into Glass
Place a fine mesh strainer over a chilled martini glass and double‑strain the cocktail to remove ice shards and any remaining matcha particles.
Time: PT30S
Serve
Garnish optionally with a thin matcha‑dust rim or a vanilla bean, then serve immediately.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 134
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 10 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Matcha Powder: Green tea powder (lower quality)
- Instead of Vanilla Vodka: Plain vodka + vanilla extract
- Instead of White Rum: Silver rum, Cachaça
- Instead of Cane Sugar Syrup: Honey syrup, Agave nectar
- Instead of Saline Solution: Pinch of regular salt
Equipment Needed
- Digital Scale
- Bamboo Whisk (Chasen)
- Mixing Bowl
- Cocktail Shaker
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Jigger
- Martini Glass
- Ice Bucket (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Sift the matcha to avoid clumps.
- Whisk the matcha with cold water until fully emulsified and foamy.
- Shake the cocktail vigorously with plenty of ice to create a stable foam.
- Double‑strain into a frozen glass for a silky texture.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality ceremonial matcha for the brightest color and smoothest mouthfeel.
- Chill the martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- A pinch of sea salt (saline solution) amplifies the sweetness and balances the bitterness of matcha.
Troubleshooting
Foam is thin or disappears quickly.
Ensure the matcha is fully whisked with cold water and shake the cocktail vigorously with plenty of ice; double‑strain to remove any fine particles that break the foam.
Drink tastes too bitter or astringent.
Add an extra 5 ml of cane sugar syrup or adjust the matcha amount down to 3 g for a milder profile.
Matcha clumps remain in the final drink.
Sift the matcha before whisking and use a fine mesh strainer when pouring into the shaker.
Storage
Refrigerator: Matcha‑water mixture can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 h; re‑whisk before use.
Freezer: Not recommended; ice crystals will affect texture.
Room temperature: Prepared cocktail should be consumed immediately; do not leave at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the matcha‑water base in advance and keep it chilled; give it a quick whisk before mixing with spirits.
- Infuse the vanilla vodka ahead of time (at least 24 h) for deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of matcha martinis in Japanese‑inspired cocktail culture?
Matcha has been used for centuries in Japanese tea ceremonies, symbolizing mindfulness and refinement. In recent years, mixologists have incorporated matcha into modern cocktails to blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with Western bar culture, creating drinks that celebrate both heritage and innovation.
What are the traditional regional variations of matcha‑based cocktails in Japan?
While Japan’s classic cocktail scene historically favored shochu and sake, contemporary bars experiment with matcha in drinks like the Matcha Sour or Matcha Highball. Some regions add yuzu or sakura syrup for a local twist, but the matcha martini is a newer, globally‑inspired adaptation.
How is a matcha martini traditionally served in Japanese‑inspired cocktail bars?
It is typically served in a chilled martini or coupe glass, often with a thin rim of matcha powder or a vanilla bean garnish. The drink is presented with a glossy, foamy top that mirrors the crema of an espresso martini, emphasizing visual elegance.
During what occasions or celebrations is a matcha martini commonly enjoyed in modern cocktail culture?
The matcha martini is popular at upscale cocktail parties, brunch gatherings, and as a sophisticated after‑dinner drink. Its vibrant green hue makes it a festive choice for spring events, garden parties, and New Year celebrations where green symbolizes renewal.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a matcha martini versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include high‑grade ceremonial matcha, a clean‑tasting spirit (vanilla‑infused vodka or white rum), and a neutral sweetener like cane sugar syrup. Substitutes can be plain vodka with vanilla extract, silver rum, honey syrup, or a pinch of regular salt instead of a precise saline solution.
What other Japanese‑inspired drinks pair well with a matcha martini?
Pair it with a light yuzu spritz, a chilled sake cocktail, or a subtle shiso‑infused gin fizz. The bright, vegetal notes of matcha complement citrus‑forward drinks and delicate umami sips.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a matcha martini?
Common errors include using hot water (which dulls color and flavor), under‑whisking the matcha (resulting in a gritty texture), shaking insufficiently (weak foam), and forgetting to double‑strain (leaving particles in the drink).
Why does this matcha martini recipe use a saline solution instead of plain sugar?
A small amount of saline solution enhances flavor perception, balances sweetness, and brings out the vegetal notes of matcha, much like a pinch of salt does in desserts. It creates a more rounded palate without adding extra sweetness.
Can I make the matcha martini ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the matcha‑water base and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Store the spirits and syrup separately. When ready to serve, combine, shake with ice, and strain into a chilled glass.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making a matcha martini?
The cocktail should have a glossy, emerald‑green color with a thick, velvety foam on top that holds its shape for a few seconds. The surface should be smooth, not frothy bubbles that dissipate immediately.
What does the YouTube channel DAN FELLOWS coffee + cocktails specialize in?
DAN FELLOWS coffee + cocktails focuses on creative, coffee‑inspired drinks and cocktail experiments that blend café culture with mixology, often featuring seasonal ingredients like matcha and detailed technique breakdowns.
How does the YouTube channel DAN FELLOWS coffee + cocktails' approach to Japanese‑inspired cocktails differ from other cocktail channels?
The channel emphasizes a coffee‑first mindset, using espresso‑style extraction methods (like whisked matcha) to achieve texture and intensity, while many other channels rely on traditional shaking or stirring without the café‑technique crossover.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
