How to Make a Vanilla Matcha Latte
TL;DR: Learn how to make a creamy, café-style vanilla matcha latte at home with just matcha powder, milk, and your favorite vanilla syrup. Using Nooly's vanilla coffee syrup delivers smooth, balanced sweetness with no sugar crash, just clean flavor. Whether you like it hot or iced, it’s easy to customize. Scroll down for the full vanilla matcha latte recipe, tips, and FAQs.
- Ingredients: matcha powder, milk or plant-based milk, hot water, and vanilla syrup
- Method: whisk matcha with hot water until smooth, stir in vanilla syrup and warm milk, then froth or blend for a café-style texture. Serve hot or over ice.
- Tips: sift matcha before whisking for a smoother drink, adjust sweetness to taste, and use cold milk with ice for an iced vanilla matcha latte
- Buy Vanilla Syrup: order directly from Nooly for nationwide shipping.
What Is a Vanilla Matcha Latte?
A vanilla matcha combines earthy matcha green tea with creamy milk and sweet vanilla flavor. The vanilla balances matcha’s vegetal notes, creating a smooth, comforting drink.
Also known as a vanilla matcha green tea latte, this smooth, refreshing drink delivers the perfect balance of flavor with a gentle caffeine boost.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect vanilla matcha latte recipe, this guide breaks down exactly how to make it hot or iced – with simple ingredients and no fancy equipment needed.
Vanilla Matcha Latte Ingredients
- 1 tsp. matcha powder (ceremonial or high-quality)
- ~¼ cup hot water (not boiling)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tbsp. vanilla syrup (or to taste), we prefer the NOOLY brand for its clean flavor and balanced sweetness
- Ice (if making iced version)
- Optional: pinch of sea salt, dash of cinnamon, or a drop of vanilla extract for depth.
How to Make a Vanilla Matcha Latte
Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this vanilla matcha latte recipe is quick to make and delivers the rich, creamy flavor of a café-style drink at home.
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Prepare the Matcha - Sift 1 tsp of matcha powder into a bowl or mug to remove clumps. Add about ¼ cup hot water (≈ 160-175 °F / 70-80 °C, just below boiling) and whisk briskly (using a bamboo whisk or electric frother) until it’s smooth and frothy. Pro tip: Whisk in a zig-zag “M” or “W” motion for best froth.
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Add Vanilla Syrup - Stir in 1–2 tbsp of your favorite vanilla syrup (we recommend Nooly’s Vanilla Coffee Syrup) until fully blended with the matcha. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
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Steam or Froth the Milk - Heat ¾ cup milk gently on the stovetop or in the microwave (do not boil). Froth using a milk frother, whisk, or shake in a jar until silky and foamy. Pro tip: For non-dairy milk, oat or almond milk often froths best for a creamy texture.
- Combine: Finish Your Latte Hot or Iced
For a Hot Vanilla Matcha Latte:
- Pour the foamed milk slowly over the matcha-vanilla base, holding back the foam with a spoon if you want a layered look.
- Stir gently to combine for a uniform latte, or leave a thin layer of foam on top for café-style presentation.
For an Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte:
- Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the milk and vanilla mixture first. Stir to combine.
- Slowly layer the whisked matcha on top, then stir gently to combine, or leave layered for visual effect.
Tips for Presentation & Flavor:
- For a layered effect, pour milk first, then carefully spoon or drizzle the matcha over the top.
- Dust lightly with matcha powder or cinnamon for garnish.
- Use filtered water to avoid bitterness from tap water.
Vanilla Matcha Latte Iced
For the best iced matcha latte, swap steamed milk for cold milk and stir in your vanilla syrup. Whisk the matcha with hot water first to dissolve fully, then pour over ice and milk. For a frothier texture, blend briefly instead of stirring.
Best Vanilla Matcha Latte (Variations & Tips)
- Milk alternatives: oat milk, almond milk, soy, cashew – choose the one that froths best for a creamy latte.
- Stronger vanilla flavor: Increase the syrup or add a touch of vanilla bean paste or extract
- Less sweet: Use only 1 tablespoon of syrup to let the matcha’s natural flavor shine.
- Boost flavor: Add a pinch of cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg for a subtle spice.
- Cold brew twist: Steep matcha in chill water overnight (½ tsp per cup) and mix with milk and vanilla in the morning.
These small tweaks help you create your own vanilla matcha green tea latte masterpiece – balanced, creamy, and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vanilla Matcha Latte's
What if I don't have a milk frother for my latte?
No frother? No problem! You can whisk the milk vigorously with a small whisk, shake it in a jar, or use a handheld electric mixer to create foam. Even gently warmed milk without froth still makes a delicious latte.
What does vanilla matcha latte taste like?
It’s creamy and subtly sweet, with earthy, vegetal matcha flavor notes perfectly balanced by vanilla.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla syrup?
Yes, but syrup blends more smoothly. If using extract, start small with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Is matcha good for you?
Yes, matcha contains antioxidants (catechins) and L-theanine, which may help support focus and calm energy.
What type of matcha is best for lattes?
Choose a mid- to high-quality culinary or ceremonial grade matcha that’s smooth, vibrant, and not overly bitter.
How much caffeine in a matcha latte vs coffee?
Matcha contains caffeine, typically less than coffee, providing a gentler, sustained boost without the jitters.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Absolutely! Use an unsweetened vanilla syrup or a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
Why is there sediment at the bottom of my drink?
Matcha powder can settle if not fully whisked. Always sift before mixing and whisk vigorously to minimize lumps.