Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced
Highlighted under: Wellness Collection
I love indulging in refreshing drinks, and this Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced has become one of my favorites. The combination of vibrant strawberry puree and earthy matcha creates a colorful and flavorful experience. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also gives me that much-needed boost of energy. Perfect for warm afternoons or as a delightful pick-me-up, this drink is both beautiful and nutritious. I'm excited to share this easy recipe with you, so you can enjoy this delightful treat just as much as I do!
When I first tried a matcha latte, I was skeptical about how the earthy flavor would blend with sweetness. To my surprise, adding a vibrant strawberry puree transformed it into something magical. I experimented with ratios until I found the perfect balance, which enhances both flavors without overpowering one another.
One tip I found essential is to use high-quality matcha. The freshness of the matcha leaves makes a huge difference in flavor and color. Make sure to whisk the matcha well to avoid lumps, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency that pairs perfectly with the strawberry.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful balance of fruity sweetness and earthy matcha notes.
- Visually stunning with its beautiful layers of color.
- Refreshing and energizing, perfect for afternoons.
Creating the Perfect Strawberry Puree
The strawberry puree is the star of this drink, providing a natural sweetness and vibrant color. When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe, fragrant berries, as their flavor will significantly impact the final result. If you'd like a deeper flavor profile, consider macerating the strawberries with the honey and lemon juice for about 15 minutes before blending. This allows the strawberries to release their juices, creating a more pronounced foundation for your puree.
When blending your strawberries, aim for a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the strawberries a few times instead of blending continuously. Straining the mixture is an optional step that can yield a silkier puree, which enhances the visual appeal when layered with matcha. Use a fine mesh sieve for this; simply press the mixture through with the back of a spoon to separate the pulp from the juice.
Mastering the Matcha Latte
The key to a successful matcha latte lies in the preparation of the matcha powder. Always sift your matcha before whisking to eliminate lumps, ensuring a smooth blend. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) can help achieve the perfect frothy consistency. Whisk vigorously until you notice a glossy texture with small bubbles—this typically takes about 30 seconds. If you don't have a bamboo whisk, a milk frother or small whisk can work as alternatives.
While you can use any milk for this latte, the choice will significantly affect the flavor and creaminess. For a richer taste, try full-fat coconut milk, which pairs beautifully with both strawberries and matcha. For a lighter option, almond or oat milk can add a distinct flavor without overshadowing the matcha. Experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match, keeping in mind that unsweetened versions will allow the natural sweetness of the strawberry puree to shine through.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Puree
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Matcha Latte
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice cubes
Blend the strawberries with honey and lemon juice to create a smooth puree.
Instructions
Steps
Make the Strawberry Puree
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Strain if desired for a smoother texture.
Prepare the Matcha Latte
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with a few tablespoons of hot water until smooth and lump-free.
Assemble the Drink
Fill two glasses with ice. Pour in the strawberry puree evenly. Gradually add the milk, leaving some room on top for the matcha. Finally, gently spoon the matcha over the top for a beautiful effect.
Stir before drinking to mix the flavors.
Pro Tips
- For added sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or use flavored syrups. Enjoy your drink immediately for the best taste and experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced can be enjoyed in various ways beyond just sipping it straight. Consider serving it as part of a brunch spread, where its vibrant presentation can be a centerpiece. Pair it with light pastries or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing twist. You could also consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or crushed pistachios on top for added texture and flavor.
For a fun twist, try layering the strawberry puree and matcha in a mason jar for a portable pick-me-up. Not only does it look impressive, but it's also a great on-the-go option for busy afternoons. Just seal securely and bring it along for a refreshing treat wherever your day takes you.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This recipe is versatile when it comes to preparation. The strawberry puree can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you have leftover puree, consider using it as a topping for yogurt or pancakes, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
While the matcha latte is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the matcha mixture ahead of time as well. Just store the whisked matcha in the refrigerator for up to four hours. However, it’s best to mix it with milk when you’re ready to serve, as separation can occur, affecting appearance and texture. Make sure to stir or whisk again before serving to reintroduce the froth.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work well! Just blend them straight from frozen, but you may want to add a bit more honey if they aren't as sweet.
→ What type of milk should I use?
You can use any kind of milk you prefer! Almond, oat, and coconut milk are all great options for a dairy-free version.
→ Can I prepare this drink in advance?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the strawberry puree ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
→ Is matcha healthy?
Yes! Matcha is rich in antioxidants, boosts metabolism, and provides a calm alertness thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and amino acids.
Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced
I love indulging in refreshing drinks, and this Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced has become one of my favorites. The combination of vibrant strawberry puree and earthy matcha creates a colorful and flavorful experience. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also gives me that much-needed boost of energy. Perfect for warm afternoons or as a delightful pick-me-up, this drink is both beautiful and nutritious. I'm excited to share this easy recipe with you, so you can enjoy this delightful treat just as much as I do!
Created by: Tilda Greenwood
Recipe Type: Wellness Collection
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Strawberry Puree
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Matcha Latte
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice cubes
How-To Steps
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Strain if desired for a smoother texture.
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with a few tablespoons of hot water until smooth and lump-free.
Fill two glasses with ice. Pour in the strawberry puree evenly. Gradually add the milk, leaving some room on top for the matcha. Finally, gently spoon the matcha over the top for a beautiful effect.
Extra Tips
- For added sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or use flavored syrups. Enjoy your drink immediately for the best taste and experience.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g