Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Matcha Cappuccino offers a beautiful balance of creamy frothed milk and the bold flavor of matcha, all while providing a smooth, caffeinated energy boost. Unlike regular coffee, matcha contains L-theanine, which helps promote calm and focus while giving you sustained energy. This drink is a great way to start the morning on a healthier note, without sacrificing flavor or indulgence. You can customize it with your preferred sweetener and plant-based milk, making it a versatile choice for any dietary preference.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
- 1 tablespoon hot water (approximately 175°F)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice (honey, agave, or sugar)
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and hot water until fully dissolved and frothy, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan (or in a microwave), heat the milk until warm but not boiling. If you have a milk frother, froth the milk until it doubles in volume and becomes creamy.
- In a large mug, combine the sweetener and vanilla extract, stirring until mixed.
- Pour the whisked matcha into the mug over the sweetener mixture.
- Gently add the frothed milk to the mug, allowing the foam to create a beautiful layer on top.
- Optionally, dust the top with cocoa powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Iced Matcha Cappuccino: Use cold milk and serve the drink over ice for a refreshing iced version.
- Sweetened Matcha: Add more sweetener to taste, or use flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
- Non-Dairy Options: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Matcha Latte: For a creamier drink, use more milk and less foam, or add a little extra vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Matcha cappuccino is best enjoyed immediately while the milk is frothy and fresh. If you have leftover matcha mixture, it can be stored in the fridge for a day or two, but the foam may not last.
- Reheating: Reheat the matcha mixture gently on the stove or in the microwave. If reheating milk, avoid bringing it to a boil to keep the texture smooth.
FAQs
Can I use any type of matcha powder for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any high-quality culinary matcha powder. Ceremonial matcha can be used for a smoother taste, but it is more expensive.
Can I make this drink without a milk frother?
Yes, you can froth milk manually by whisking it vigorously or by using a hand-held frother. Alternatively, you can heat the milk and simply add it without frothing.
Is matcha cappuccino lower in caffeine than coffee?
Yes, matcha generally contains less caffeine than coffee. However, the energy boost from matcha is often more sustained due to the presence of L-theanine, which moderates the release of caffeine.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes, simply use a sugar substitute like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol in place of the sweetener for a sugar-free version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the matcha mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Frothing the milk just before serving is key to maintaining the texture.
Can I add other flavors to the matcha cappuccino?
Absolutely! You can add a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even matcha-flavored syrups for a unique twist.
What type of milk is best for frothing?
Whole milk works best for frothing due to its fat content, but plant-based milks like oat milk or almond milk also froth well and can create a creamy texture.
What can I pair with this drink?
A Matcha Cappuccino pairs wonderfully with pastries like croissants, muffins, or light snacks like fruit and nuts.
Can I use cold water to dissolve the matcha powder?
It’s best to use warm water around 175°F to dissolve matcha. Cold water won’t help dissolve it completely, and you may end up with a grainy texture.
Is matcha cappuccino suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Yes, simply use a dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, to make the recipe lactose-free.
Conclusion
The Matcha Cappuccino is a fantastic way to start your day with a boost of antioxidants and a creamy, flavorful twist on your typical morning drink. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and offers a healthier alternative to coffee without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or new to the green tea world, this drink is sure to become a favorite part of your morning routine.
Matcha Cappuccino
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic cappuccino, this Matcha Cappuccino combines creamy frothed milk with antioxidant-packed matcha green tea, providing a smooth energy boost to start your day.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
1 tablespoon hot water (approximately 175°F)
1 cup milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon sweetener of choice (honey, agave, or sugar)
Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and hot water until fully dissolved and frothy, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan (or in a microwave), heat the milk until warm but not boiling. If you have a milk frother, froth the milk until it doubles in volume and becomes creamy.
- In a large mug, combine the sweetener and vanilla extract, stirring until mixed.
- Pour the whisked matcha into the mug over the sweetener mixture.
- Gently add the frothed milk to the mug, allowing the foam to create a beautiful layer on top.
- Optionally, dust the top with cocoa powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
Customize your sweetness by adding more sweetener or flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut.
For a dairy-free version, use almond, oat, or coconut milk.
For a different twist, try adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the milk.
Make it iced by using cold milk and serving the drink over ice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
