Savor the refreshing blend of sweet strawberry puree, creamy milk, and earthy matcha in a vibrant layered drink. This colorful fusion is quick to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps: blend strawberries, layer with milk, then gently pour frothy matcha on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve chilled over ice and stir before enjoying to unite all the flavors for a harmonious, uplifting experience perfect for any warm day or pick-me-up.
This Strawberry Matcha Latte is my favorite way to treat myself during warm afternoons. The medley of sweet strawberry puree, luscious milk, and fresh, grassy matcha creates a refreshing drink that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Its layered, colorful look always impresses friends and family, but it is so simple and quick to make that it has become my go-to pick-me-up whenever I crave a café-worthy beverage at home.
I discovered this drink on a sweltering summer day when I wanted something energizing but not too heavy. Now, every time I make it for my family, we linger a little longer at the table—it is too pretty and tasty to rush.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: bring vibrant color and bright, tangy flavor while being packed with antioxidants look for berries that are fully red and fragrant for the best results
- Granulated sugar or honey: sweetens the strawberries and draws out their juices adjust to taste and use honey for a floral note or maple syrup for a vegan twist
- Water: helps blend the strawberries into a smooth puree and makes the layer pourable
- Milk: acts as the creamy middle layer both dairy and plant-based milks work beautifully for different diet needs. Choose full-fat options for extra richness
- Vanilla extract: is optional but makes the milk silky and aromatic real vanilla is always preferable for superior flavor
- High-quality matcha green tea powder: serves as the top layer providing earthy notes and a beautiful green hue ceremonial grade will give the best color and taste
- Hot water (about 175 F or 80 C): is crucial for dissolving the matcha without making it bitter never use boiling water
- Sweetener of your choice for the matcha layer: lets you control overall sweetness try agave or simple syrup if you want to avoid processed sugar
- Ice cubes: chill the drink instantly and help the layers to stay separated until stirred
Instructions
- Make the Strawberry Puree
- Place the prepared strawberries sugar and water into a blender. Blend on high until the mixture is very smooth and vibrant in color. If you prefer a silky texture pour the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. This makes the bottom layer bright and perfectly pourable
- Prepare the Matcha
- Measure out your matcha powder and hot water into a small bowl. Using a bamboo whisk or small metal whisk vigorously combine the two until frothy with no lumps. Add sweetener now if you desire. Proper whisking is the secret to a smooth delicious matcha layer
- Assemble the Drink
- Divide the strawberry puree evenly between two tall glasses. Add ice to each glass right on top of the puree. This step keeps the layers clean and provides that signature chilled effect
- Pour the Milk
- Gently pour your chosen milk over the ice and strawberry puree in each glass. Try to pour slowly to help maintain a distinct layer between the strawberry and milk. The separation makes the drink visually stunning
- Layer the Matcha
- Slowly pour the prepared matcha over the milk layer using the back of a spoon held just above the milk. This technique lets the matcha sit gracefully on top. The key is not to rush so you get striking layers from pink to white to green
- Serve Immediately
- Once assembled present the drinks as is to enjoy the rainbow effect. Before drinking stir well to blend the flavors. Each sip will balance fruity creamy and fresh tastes
Strawberry is my star ingredient here because it adds natural color and a summery flavor that perks up any day. I remember making a batch for my best friend's birthday breakfast and even the kids could not wait to take that first sip—it truly is a crowd-pleaser and feels extra special every single time.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover strawberry puree in a covered container in the fridge for up to two days. Matcha is best mixed fresh each time because it loses its froth and vibrancy if it sits. If you want to prep the milk mixture ahead go ahead and it will stay fresh for one or two days so you can layer and assemble when ready.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try frozen strawberries if fresh are out of season just thaw and drain them first. For the milk layer both oat and coconut milks give a sweet creamy finish. Maple syrup or agave can easily take the place of sugar and honey and add their own subtle flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this latte with buttery scones or a slice of angel food cake for a cheerful tea time pairing. It is also perfect with light savory snacks like cucumber sandwiches or rice crackers. For summertime parties add a sprig of fresh mint and a strawberry slice for garnish.
Enjoy the Strawberry Matcha Latte as a beautiful treat that brings a little luxury to your afternoon. You will love the contrast of fruity and earthy flavors with every sip.