Do you want to make something delicious and unusual? Why not try a matcha chai latte? Drinking this tea latte provides health benefits thanks to Matcha green tea, a powerful antioxidant, and chai spices, which give it a warm and distinct dimension of taste. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold winter day!
This delicious drink has elements of matcha, chai, and latte. Suppose you haven't heard of Tiktok's recommendation that you "special" order a matcha chai combo from Starbucks; imagine how surprised you will be. The good news is that there is an easy way to make a homemade version that is equally delicious and creamy as the original.
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The matcha gives it a beautiful green color, and the chai spices add a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. And to top it all off, you can add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of matcha powder for extra decadence. Cheers! So if you're looking for a delicious and Instagram-worthy drink, look no further than this matcha chai latte.
Why you're going to love this drink
Any true coffee lover knows that there is nothing quite like a latte. Something about the creamy texture and rich flavor hits the spot. However, sometimes you may want to switch things up a bit. If you look for a latte with a twist, a matcha chai latte is a must-try.
The process of making matcha chai lattes at home is quite simple. Start with a quality matcha powder and add it to your latte base of choice. You can also add some spices like ginger or cardamom for an extra flavor boost. Once that is done, simply sip your latte and enjoy!
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What is Matcha powder?
Matcha is a traditional Japanese green tea powder. Young tea leaves are used in the shade-grown process and then stone-ground into a fine powder. It's rich in antioxidants and has a unique, grassy, and sweet flavor.
Matcha powder is a critical ingredient in matcha chai latte. You don't need to use ceremonial matcha powder. It's essential to use a good quality, culinary-grade matcha powder for this recipe.
Matcha chai latte is a perfect drink for chilly mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups, thanks to matcha powder. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious beverage, reach for a matcha chai latte. It will taste great, but it will also be good for you!
Different grades of Matcha
Matcha is best used for something specific before you buy it. Do you intend to drink it like tea? Is it something you will incorporate into your favorite recipes?
Because matcha comes in different grades, you should know what you'll use it for first. It is divided into grades based on color, texture, and quality; each serves a specific purpose.
Matcha tea is categorized into two distinct types of tea: Ceremonial and Culinary.
1 Ceremonial grade matcha
In the ceremonial grades, only one purpose is served: drinking. Tea of this quality is the best, and it has therefore been part of Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries. However, it can also be consumed on its own.
This form of green tea offers a thicker taste and should be consumed plain; adding sweeteners or other additives is contrary to nature, given its natural sweetness.
2 Culinary or food-grade matcha
Culinary-grade matcha powder is less expensive than ceremonial matcha powder in matcha lattes, smoothies, and other beverages. It has a mellower flavor than ceremonial matcha powder and is less likely to be bitter when added to recipes.
Tea that is food-grade or purely for consumption is by no means low-quality. Obviously, baking and cooking require cooking-grade ingredients. As such, this type of matcha green tea is processed differently and possesses different qualities and flavors from ceremonial-grade matcha.
While you can consume this grade by itself, it is recommended that you not do so because its slightly bitter flavor is used to complement other ingredients in food and beverage preparations. Due to its mild astringency, the food-grade variety is well suited to smoothies and milk-based beverages.
While its green color isn't as vibrant as its ceremonial grade counterpart, it's still a fairly vivid shade of green.
What makes matcha unique from green tea?
The Camellia sinensis plant is the source of both matcha and traditional green tea. However, the matcha is made using leaves plucked from shade-grown plants. These tea plants are kept under large curtains or nets that block out at least 90% of direct sunlight for the last month of their growth cycle. This lack of sunlight alters the plant's chemistry, giving the plant an abundance of chlorophyll.
Matcha is made by stone-grinding tea leaves until they become ultra-fine particles. Because of its labor-intensive production process, matcha prices tend to be higher than regular green tea. It is also brighter in color and has a more intense flavor. You can use matcha powder to make tea or add it to smoothies, baked goods, and other dishes for a nutrient boost.
In addition to its unique taste, matcha is also more concentrated than other types of green tea. Matcha also contains higher levels of antioxidants than other types of green tea, making it a popular choice for those looking for an energy boost.
Is there any caffeine in a matcha chai latte?
The presence of caffeine in all teas is a natural thing. According to the US National Library of Medicine, approximately 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine are present in a cup of coffee.
Matcha is a tea leaf-based drink, which means it has a higher amount of caffeine than your typical green tea. In an eight-ounce cup, green tea contains 28 milligrams of caffeine.
One teaspoon of matcha powder in an eight-ounce cup of matcha usually contains 70 milligrams of caffeine. Depending on the concentration, getting a little less or a little more caffeine is possible. While matcha does contain caffeine, the amount of caffeine can differ based on the preparation method.
Matcha has both a relaxing and stimulating effect, so it is considered both. Thanks to the presence of L-theanine, a compound known for calming and relaxing properties. Additionally, matcha doesn't have the jittery effects ascribed to coffee.
How many calories are in a matcha chai latte?
While matcha contains more caffeine than regular green tea, it also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation.
A large/grande matcha chai latte from Starbucks contains approximately 240 calories. Most of these come from the milk and sugar added to the latte. However, matcha itself is relatively low in calories, with around 35 calories per teaspoon.
Is a matcha chai latte gluten-free?
Matcha chai lattes are a latte that combines matcha with the spices typically used in chai, such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. While matcha itself is gluten-free, matcha chai lattes may or may not depend on the other ingredients used.
Typically, if you make a latte with a gluten-containing milk alternative or sweetener, it will not be gluten-free. However, if made with almond milk and honey, it would be considered gluten-free. Thus, when ordering a matcha chai latte, ensure that you ask the barista about the ingredients.
5 tips for making the perfect matcha chai latte at home
- Use high-quality Matcha powder for the best flavor.
- Whisk the Matcha powder well before adding it to the milk to avoid clumps.
- Use a milk frother to get the perfect latte texture.
- Add a touch of sweetness to your latte with simple syrup, honey, or agave nectar.
- Experiment with different chai spice combinations to find your perfect flavor.
How do you make a matcha chai latte?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. It's rich in antioxidants and promotes health benefits, including improved heart health and increased weight loss.
Matcha chai latte is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional lattes, made with just four simple ingredients: matcha powder, chai tea concentrate, simple syrup, and almond milk (dairy or non-dairy).
To make this tasty beverage, simply combine the matcha powder and chai tea concentrate with a bit of simple syrup, then top with frothed barista almond milk. Enjoy your matcha chai latte in just seven minutes!
Step 1 Prep the matcha powder
Start by preparing the matcha. With a bamboo scoop, push the matcha powder through the mesh of a fine mesh tea strainer. Sifting the green tea matcha powder will dissolve faster in water. Sift your matcha powder beforehand to ensure it is lump-free.
Put some matcha powder in a small bowl, and stir in some hot water (170°F/70°C, not boiling water) to make a thin paste. Whisk using a matcha whisker until it dissolves into a smooth paste. Set the bowl aside.
Matcha is best prepared by whisking with a bamboo chasen. The powder dissolves in water when whisked, resulting in a smooth and flavorful matcha drink.
In the absence of a chasen whisk, you can still make a delicious matcha beverage using some quick methods.
1 Use a mason jar, a shaker, or a bottle to shake.
Add all the mixture to the bottle or jar, and securely close the lid. For a few minutes, shake until a thick layer of foam forms. Matcha cold-brewed works best with this option, so try it out with some ice.
You can also prepare hot matcha by using this technique. The best way to remove clumps from matcha is to sift the powder before shaking it into the jar or bottle.
2 Using a blender
You can't deny the fact that matcha smoothies taste delicious, and they can be blended by simply adding the green tea powder to the rest of the ingredients.
All you have to do is blend the matcha with water! Making a cup of matcha is a quick and easy process that entails no effort.
Regarding how long your blender should run, that depends entirely on its power. You will know it's ready when you see bubbles on top and no clumps are visible.
3 Whip the matcha powder in a milk frother.
This is a quick and easy way to mix your matcha powder with milk. In the case of a handheld frother, the process is as simple as adding matcha and hot water and turning it on. Once the final milky drink is ready, pour it into your cup.
Step 2 Steep the Chai tea
1 If using Chai teabags.
Brew the one Chai teabag in hot water. Add the sugar or simple syrup (adjust the amount according to your taste) to the tea and stir until dissolved. Let it sit for a couple of minutes while preparing your matcha powder in a separate bowl.
2 If using Chai tea leaves
Steep chai tea leaves. Put 1 tablespoon Chai loose-leaves tea in a tea infuser. Next, pour 12 oz milk into a saucepan and plop the tea infuser. Simmer the milk over medium-low heat, letting the tea steep for approximately two to three minutes. Take the milk off the heat and let it steep for another five minutes. Discard the tea infuser.
Step 3 Build latte
We now need to make the lattes using both tea blends that we brewed. Using a teacup or mug, add a layer of hot matcha to one half of the cup, and pour the infused chai milk over the top. You may serve it warm or add some ice cubes.
Step 4 Froth the milk.
Warm the almond milk in the microwave for 30 seconds. Pour almond milk into a separate glass and froth it with a handheld frother until it has doubled in volume.
Note:
Frothing milk is dependent on several factors, but the most important factor—whether it's almond or not—is the temperature. When frothing dairy and almond milk, a temperature range of 155°F to 165°F is appropriate. Too hot milk will yield a chunky, cheese-like consistency rather than a silky smooth one. It will not froth up much if it's too cold.
Why is this the best Matcha Chai Latte?
This matcha chai latte is a creamy, rich, and flavorful beverage perfect for chilly mornings or evenings. The matcha powder gives the latte a slightly sweet and grassy flavor, while the chai spices add depth and warmth.
This matcha chai latte is the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing, and I guarantee that it will become your new favorite wintertime drink! I particularly love this recipe because it uses almond milk instead of dairy, making it lighter and easier to digest. In addition, the recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, all of which are easily accessible.
- A matcha chai latte is the best latte because it combines two great flavors, matcha, and chai.
- This latte is vegan, made with tea, matcha powder, sugar, and almond milk.
- Using a teabag to make chai tea is simple to make. This latte is an excellent choice for those who want a delicious and healthy vegan latte.
Are matcha and chai good together?
Matcha and chai are both popular beverages that have distinct flavor profiles. Matcha is a type of green tea that is rich and savory, while chai is a spiced black tea that is sweet and aromatic.
When combined, these two flavors create a unique and delicious beverage. Matcha and chai contain caffeine, so the drink can be quite refreshing and energizing.
However, matcha also contains a high level of antioxidants, providing some health benefits. If you're in the market for a delicious and healthy beverage, you can't go wrong with matcha or chai.
What does matcha latte with chai taste like?
A matcha latte with chai is a delicious and refreshing drink that combines the earthy flavors of matcha green tea with the spicy notes of chai. The matcha provides a rich and robust flavor, while the chai adds a touch of sweetness and spice.
When combined, these flavors create a unique and flavorful drink that is perfect for any time of day. If you are looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy tea, then I highly recommend trying a matcha latte with chai. You will not be disappointed!
Why do I need to use a matcha whisk?
A matcha whisk is a traditional utensil used to prepare matcha, a green tea type. Wood, bamboo, and plastic are among the materials used to make the whisk. The most important feature of the whisk is its array of thin, delicate wires, which help to create a smooth, frothy beverage.
If you are using a whisk, wet the powder first so they don't stick to the wires. Next, add the powder to a bowl with hot water. Then, whisk the powder until they are completely dissolved, and the water turns a bright green color.
To make a proper cup of matcha, you need to use a matcha whisk (or 茶筅, chasen). There is no substitute for a matcha whisk, and it helps create a smooth, frothy beverage with no clumps. You will likely have a bitter, uneven drink if you try to make matcha without a whisk. So if you want to enjoy the best cup of matcha possible, be sure to invest in a good matcha whisk.
Matcha whisking is an art form in itself and takes practice to perfect. However, with a bit of patience and practice, anyone can prepare a delicious cup of matcha.
How to store matcha chai latte?
If you make your matcha chai latte at home, you should keep it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Simply place the prepared drink in a covered container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
If you want to store matcha chai latte for longer, you can keep it in the freezer. Pour the prepared drink into a covered container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
My favorite way of freezing leftover matcha chai latte is easy with an ice cube tray. They're also handy for chilling tea, coffee, and cocktails.
Thaw the drink in the fridge overnight and enjoy cold or over ice when ready. Either way, you'll have a delicious and refreshing matcha chai latte to enjoy any time of year.
Can you froth almond milk?
If you're looking to cut down on dairy or just want something different, try almond-based drinks instead of regular cow's produce! But you may be wondering if you can froth almond milk if you're going to make a latte or cappuccino at home. It can, but the results may not be quite what you're expecting.
The main difference between dairy milk and almond milk is the protein content which influences how well they behave when frothed up with air bubbles during brewing processes. Dairy milk has a blend of proteins to form stiff peaks when whipped or frothed. On the other hand, Almond milk doesn't have these same proteins; therefore, it won't develop the same peaks.
Many brands of almond milk sell a frothable version that you can use in coffee—usually branded as "barista almond milk". This difference usually manifests itself in the protein content, modified to increase the frothing ability of almond milk.
Does Matcha latte have coffee?
Matcha lattes are becoming increasingly popular, but many people are unsure of what they contain. So, does matcha latte have coffee?
The answer is no; Matcha lattes do not contain coffee. Nevertheless, their similarities in appearance and taste make them often compared to coffee. Matcha lattes are usually made with steamed milk, which gives them a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Many people find that matcha lattes offer a more balanced energy boost than coffee, as they do not contain caffeine. Matcha also contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help to improve overall health. So, if you're looking for a delicious and nutritious alternative to coffee, matcha latte is a great choice.
Final thoughts
For those who can't decide between a latte and iced matcha green tea, there's now a beverage that combines the best of both worlds: the matcha chai tea latte. This drink starts with a hot matcha green tea base, followed by a creamy chai latte.
The result is a frothy, flavorful drink with all the benefits of green tea without the bitter taste. Plus, milk and spices make this latte extra comforting on a cold day.
Whether you're looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy nightcap, the matcha chai tea latte will hit the spot.
Full Recipe
How to make Matcha Chai Latte (Step by step)
Pin RecipeEquipments:
- Milk frother
- small saucepan
- Matcha whisk
- Tea diffuser
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Matcha powder (use the latte-grade)
- 2 tablespoon hot water
- 1 Chai teabag (you can add extra teabag if you want more concentrate or strong)
- 1 tablespoon Chai loose tea leaves (if you're not using Chai teabags)
- 12 oz almond milk (or 2% milk, oat milk etc)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Matcha
- Start by preparing the matcha. With a bamboo scoop, push the matcha powder through the mesh of a fine mesh tea strainer. Sifting the green tea matcha powder will dissolve faster in water. Sift your matcha powder beforehand to ensure it is lump-free.
- Put some matcha powder in a small bowl, and stir in some hot water (170°F/70°C, not boiling water) to make a thin paste. Whisk using a matcha whisker until it dissolves into a smooth paste. Set the bowl aside.
Step 2: Steep the Chai Tea
- If using Chai teabags:Brew the one (or two) Chai teabag in hot water. Add the sugar or simple syrup (adjust the amount according to your taste) to the tea and stir until dissolved. Let it sit for a couple of minutes while preparing your matcha powder in a separate bowl.
- If using Chai tea loose-leaves:Steep chai tea leaves. Put 1 tablespoon Chai loose-leaves tea in a tea infuser. Next, pour 12 oz milk into a saucepan and plop the tea infuser. Simmer the milk over low or medium-low heat, letting the tea steep for approximately two to three minutes. (Caution: rapid boiling can destroy Chai!). Take the milk off the heat and let it steep for another five minutes. Discard the tea infuser.
Step 3: Build your latte
- We now need to make the Matcha lattes using both tea blends that we brewed. Using a teacup or glass mug, add a layer of matcha blend to one half of the cup, and pour the infused chai milk or brewed chai over the top. You may serve it warm or add some ice cubes.
Step 4: Froth the milk
- Fill a heat-proof glass with almond milk. Warm the milk for 30 to 40 seconds (at 15-minute intervals) using a microwave oven. Use a handheld frother to blend it until its volume has doubled. Top the latte with the frothed milk.
Notes:
In the absence of a chasen whisk, you can still make a delicious matcha beverage using some quick methods.
1 Use a mason jar, a shaker, or a bottle to shake.
Add all the mixture to the bottle or jar, and securely close the lid. For a few minutes, shake until a thick layer of foam forms. Matcha cold-brewed works best with this option, so try it out with some ice. You can also prepare hot matcha by using this technique. The best way to remove clumps from matcha is to sift the powder before shaking it into the jar or bottle.2 Using a blender
You can’t deny the fact that matcha smoothies taste delicious, and they can be blended by simply adding the green tea powder to the rest of the ingredients. All you have to do is blend the matcha with water! Making a cup of matcha is a quick and easy process that entails no effort. Regarding how long your blender should run, that depends entirely on its power. You will know it’s ready when you see bubbles on top and no clumps are visible.3 Whip the matcha powder in a milk frother.
This is a quick and easy way to mix your matcha powder with milk. In the case of a handheld frother, the process is as simple as adding matcha and hot water and turning it on. Once the final milky drink is ready, pour it into your cup.Nutrition Information:
Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.
