- Why is my matcha clumpy?
- Matcha powder can be hydrophobic (water-repelling). Always whisk it into a thick paste with a small amount of liquid before diluting.
- What milk should I use?
- Dairy milk yields the creamiest texture, but almond or coconut milk are excellent alternatives that highlight the green tea flavor.
Creamy Iced Matcha Frappé
Matcha, the powdered green tea of Japanese ceremonies, gets a modern twist in this recipe. Consuming the whole tea leaf means matcha is incredibly rich in antioxidants and provides caffeine that absorbs slower than coffee for sustained 'green energy.' The frappé technique—blending with ice—creates a creamy, frothy texture that highlights the tea's vegetal umami notes.
Ingredients
2
tsp
Matcha Green Tea Powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
2
tbsp
Hot Water (approx. 175°F, not boiling)
3/4
cup
Cold Milk
1
cup
Ice Cubes
1
tbsp
Honey or Simple Syrup
1
tsp
Vanilla Extract
1/4
cup
Whipped Cream (for topping)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Blender (with ice-crushing capability)
- Small bowl and whisk (or bamboo chasen)
- Tall glass
- Straw
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl and pour the hot water over it. Whisk with a bamboo brush or small whisk until it forms a smooth, thick paste.
Tip: Sifting breaks up electrostatic clumps, and hot water helps dissolve the powder and 'open up' the tea's flavor.
2
✓
Place the ice, cold milk, honey, vanilla, and the prepared matcha paste into a blender.
Tip: Liquid helps the blender catch the ice cubes for a smoother crush.
3
✓
Blend on high until the ice is completely crushed and the drink is creamy and uniformly green (approx. 30-45 seconds).
Tip: The breakdown of ice crystals and aeration of milk proteins create the frappé's signature thick texture.
4
✓
Pour into a tall glass. If any slush remains at the bottom of the blender, spoon it on top.
Tip: Don't wait too long, as the ice crystals will melt quickly and the drink will separate.
5
✓
Top with whipped cream and dust with a pinch of matcha powder for garnish.
Tip: The contrast between the white cream and vibrant green powder is visually appetizing.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Matcha Green Tea Powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
- 2 tbsp Hot Water (approx. 175°F, not boiling)
- 3/4 cup Cold Milk
- 1 cup Ice Cubes
- 1 tbsp Honey or Simple Syrup
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 cup Whipped Cream (for topping)