Table of Contents
There’s something magic about unexpected flavor pairings. The kind that makes your taste buds pause and say, “Wait, what is this?” That was exactly my reaction the first time I tried a strawberry matcha latte. It was a sun-drenched Saturday in June here in Portland, and I was exploring a new plant-based café tucked into a corner near Alberta Street. I wasn’t even planning to order it—but there it was on the chalkboard menu: “Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte.” I hesitated (matcha with fruit?), but curiosity won.
What happened next was flavor clarity. The grassy depth of matcha, the juicy brightness of strawberries, the soft creaminess of oat milk—it all clicked. I immediately jotted down notes in my phone. Within a week, I was in my kitchen testing ratios, swapping in homemade almond milk, trying both jam and purée, until I landed on a version that felt like summer in a glass.
Why Strawberry and Matcha Belong Together
A Curious Flavor Combo Turned Staple
The strawberry matcha latte might sound like a trend, but it’s more than an Instagrammable drink. It’s a balance act: bold meets sweet, earthy meets fruity. Matcha, with its grassy, umami-rich character, finds a surprisingly cooperative partner in strawberries. They brighten matcha’s depth without masking it. That flavor synergy? It’s why I now crave this drink all year long—not just in the summer months.
Strawberries have this way of reminding me of backyard gardens and the sticky fingers of childhood. Matcha is the ritual, the grown-up calm. Put them together, and you’ve got a drink that hits both the memory and the moment. I’ve even spotted some local cafés adding their own twist—but truthfully, none top the one you make fresh at home.
If you’re drawn to unique flavor combinations, you’ll probably enjoy the delicate layers in my papalo tea—it’s floral, herbal, and equally unexpected.
Nostalgia in a Glass
There’s a particular memory I hold close: watching my mom crush strawberries by hand for jam, her fingertips stained red, the scent filling our entire kitchen. That simple action now finds its echo in this drink. I’ve taken her love of fruit, my obsession with matcha, and my commitment to clean, plant-powered ingredients to create something layered—not just in flavor, but in meaning. Strawberries themselves offer incredible health benefits, including antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C—making this latte as nourishing as it is nostalgic.
So yes, the strawberry matcha latte became more than a trend to me. It became a ritual. And in this article, I’ll walk you through exactly why it works, what it offers your body, and how to build it perfectly at home—plus a little café ordering hack you’ll thank me for later.
For more summery botanical notes, try pairing this drink with my refreshing strawberry farro salad—it’s a natural fit, both visually and on the palate.
Health Perks of Strawberry Matcha Latte
Matcha’s Power, the Plant-Based Way
Matcha isn’t just a pretty green powder. It’s a functional superfood that delivers energy, clarity, and calm—all in one cup. Here’s why it works so well:
- Rich in antioxidants: Especially EGCG, known to reduce oxidative stress and boost cellular repair.
- Boosts metabolism: The caffeine–L-theanine combo increases focus and fat burning without the jitters.
- Supports brain health: Regular matcha drinkers report improved attention and reaction time.
- Naturally anti-inflammatory: When paired with plant milk, it’s gentle on the gut.
- Alkalizing: Matcha helps balance the body’s pH, supporting overall wellness.
For a cozy, antioxidant-packed dinner to pair with this, try my creamy calabacitas recipe—it’s rich, earthy, and completely plant-based.
Strawberries Bring the Sweet (and the Glow)
Strawberries aren’t just filler—they’re full of real benefits, especially when blended fresh into your latte. Here’s what they offer:
- Vitamin C: Supports collagen production and immunity.
- Fiber: Aids digestion and helps balance blood sugar.
- Polyphenols: May lower inflammation and protect the heart.
- Manganese: Supports bone development and metabolism.
- Low glycemic load: Won’t spike your blood sugar like syrups or processed sweeteners.
If you love dishes that are as vibrant and beneficial as they are beautiful, check out my purple sweet potato pie—it shares the same sweet-nutrient synergy.
In short? A strawberry matcha latte is more than just a pick-me-up—it’s a nutrient-dense blend of brain fuel, skin food, and gentle sweetness. It’s wellness in a glass.
How to Make a Strawberry Matcha Latte at Home
What You’ll Need (Ingredients)
Simple, clean ingredients make all the difference—especially when you skip syrups and go with whole fruit and ceremonial-grade matcha. Here’s what I use:
- ½ cup fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1–2 teaspoons ceremonial matcha powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, or use dates for unrefined sweetness)
- ¾ cup plant milk (oat, almond, or cashew all work)
- ¼ cup hot water (not boiling; around 175°F/80°C)
- Ice cubes for serving
- Optional: pinch of salt or vanilla bean to enhance flavors
If you’re all about exploring botanical pairings, I highly recommend trying this latte alongside my papalo benefits guide—it’s another leafy plant with surprising flavor depth.
Step-by-Step Method (Your Morning Ritual)
Make this once, and you’ll never need to visit a coffee chain for it again. Here’s the complete, tested method:
- Prepare the strawberry layer
Blend strawberries with maple syrup until smooth. For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of milk here.
Pour into the bottom of your glass. - Whisk the matcha
In a small bowl, sift your matcha powder.
Add hot water (not boiling) and whisk using a bamboo whisk or milk frother until fully dissolved and frothy. - Add ice and milk
Add a handful of ice over the strawberry purée.
Pour your choice of cold plant milk over the ice. - Finish with matcha
Slowly pour the matcha over the back of a spoon to layer it cleanly on top. - Stir and enjoy
Sip as-is or give it a swirl to mix the colors and flavors.
Ingredient + Prep Snapshot
Here’s a quick reference in table form you can pin or print:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberries | ½ cup | Fresh or frozen |
| Matcha powder | 1–2 tsp | Ceremonial grade |
| Plant milk | ¾ cup | Oat or almond preferred |
| Maple syrup | 1 tbsp | Optional for sweetness |
Looking for a hearty plant-based pairing to balance the drink’s lightness? Try my poblano peppers in cream sauce—comforting, creamy, and flavor-rich.
Customizing Your Strawberry Matcha Latte Like a Pro
Make It Café-Worthy (Without the $8 Price Tag)
There’s something fun about sipping a pretty layered latte—but you don’t need a barista or overpriced chain to get that café feel at home. Here’s how to elevate your strawberry matcha latte into a truly impressive drink:
- Use ceremonial grade matcha – It’s more vibrant, less bitter, and froths beautifully.
- Chill your glass – It helps hold the layers, especially in summer.
- Serve in clear cups – The visual layering adds that wow factor.
- Try fancy ice – Large cubes or spheres melt slower and look amazing.
- Top with matcha dust or freeze-dried strawberry powder – Adds flair and flavor.
I find these same small upgrades are what take even a simple salad to the next level, like in my farro beet salad—a vibrant dish that’s both easy and elegant.
Flavor Twists to Try
This drink is versatile. Once you’ve mastered the base, try one of these fun variations:
- Coconut twist: Use coconut milk and add toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Minty version: Muddle a few mint leaves with strawberries for a cooling effect.
- Protein boost: Add a scoop of plant-based vanilla protein for a pre/post-workout blend.
- Chocolate matcha: Add a teaspoon of cacao powder to the matcha mix.
- Rosewater hint: Just a drop into your milk layer adds a floral depth.
If you enjoy playing with flavors and textures, you’ll love the depth in my poblano peppers stuffed with cream cheese—they offer the same kind of creative layering but in savory form.
Once you start customizing this drink, it becomes something new every time. It’s the kind of habit you’ll look forward to daily.
FAQs About Strawberry Matcha Latte
Do matcha and strawberry taste good together?
Absolutely. The earthy, slightly grassy flavor of matcha pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness and acidity of strawberries. When layered properly, the contrast creates a balanced, refreshing drink that’s both energizing and satisfying.
Does Starbucks make a strawberry matcha latte?
Starbucks doesn’t offer an official strawberry matcha latte on its standard menu, but some locations will make it as a custom order using strawberry purée, milk, and matcha. Still, homemade versions (like this one) offer cleaner ingredients and more control over sweetness and plant-based options.
How do you make a strawberry matcha latte?
Start by blending strawberries into a purée. Whisk matcha powder with hot (but not boiling) water until smooth and frothy. In a glass, layer the strawberry purée, followed by ice, then your favorite plant milk, and finally the matcha. Full details are in the step-by-step section above.
Is a strawberry matcha latte healthy?
Yes—when made with real strawberries, ceremonial-grade matcha, and plant-based milk, it’s packed with antioxidants, fiber, and brain-boosting L-theanine. It’s a clean, energizing drink that avoids artificial syrups or dairy, unlike many store-bought versions.
Conclusion
A strawberry matcha latte isn’t just a pretty drink—it’s a vibrant expression of flavor, wellness, and creativity. Whether you’re layering it for a brunch spread or blending it for a mindful morning, it’s got everything you want in one cup: earthy matcha, juicy strawberries, and the calm buzz of plant-powered energy.
The best part? You can customize it endlessly. Once you master the basics, it becomes your go-to canvas for flavor play—just like your favorite farro bowls or poblano-packed dinners.
Print
Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe: Bright, Bold, and Plant-Based
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and nutrient-packed latte combining the earthy depth of ceremonial matcha with the juicy brightness of strawberries and the creaminess of plant milk.
Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1–2 teaspoons ceremonial matcha powder
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
3/4 cup plant milk (oat, almond, or cashew)
1/4 cup hot water (175°F/80°C)
Ice cubes
Optional: pinch of salt or vanilla bean
Instructions
1. Blend strawberries with maple syrup until smooth. Optionally add a splash of milk.
2. Pour strawberry mixture into the bottom of your glass.
3. Sift matcha powder into a bowl.
4. Add hot water and whisk until fully dissolved and frothy.
5. Add ice to the glass over the strawberry purée.
6. Pour cold plant milk over the ice.
7. Slowly pour the matcha over the back of a spoon to layer.
8. Stir gently and enjoy.
Notes
Use ceremonial-grade matcha for best flavor and froth.
Chill your glass beforehand to help maintain layers.
Customize with coconut milk, mint, rosewater, or plant-based protein.
Pairs wonderfully with a farro salad or poblano cream dish.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Plant-Based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: matcha, strawberry, latte, vegan, plant-based, iced drink, summer beverage