Matcha Cold Brew is a cool and refreshing drink made by mixing matcha green tea powder with cold water or milk. Unlike traditional cold brew coffee, which is steeped from ground coffee beans, Matcha Cold Brew uses finely ground green tea leaves called matcha. This gives the drink a bright green color and a unique taste that is both grassy and slightly sweet.
Matcha comes from Japan and has been used in tea ceremonies for hundreds of years. The leaves are grown in the shade before harvest, which increases the amount of chlorophyll and gives matcha its bright green color. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Because matcha is made from whole leaves, it has more antioxidants and caffeine than regular green tea.
When matcha is mixed with cold water or milk and shaken or blended, it becomes a smooth, creamy, and energizing drink. Matcha Cold Brew is popular among people looking for a healthy and refreshing alternative to coffee.
Recipe and Brewing Process
Making Matcha Cold Brew at home is simple. You only need a few ingredients and basic tools. Here is a step-by-step guide to making your own.
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of matcha powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
- 1 cup (8 oz) of cold water or milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
- Ice cubes
- Sweetener (optional, like honey, simple syrup, or agave)
Tools
- A matcha whisk (chasen), milk frother, or shaker bottle
- A fine mesh strainer (if needed)
- A glass or tumbler
Steps
Sift the Matcha: Use a fine mesh strainer to sift the matcha powder into a bowl or glass. This helps avoid clumps.
Add Liquid: Pour cold water or milk into the bowl or shaker.
Mix Well: Whisk the matcha in a zigzag motion using a bamboo whisk or shake the mixture in a bottle until fully blended and frothy. You can also use a milk frother for smooth mixing.
Sweeten (Optional): Add your preferred sweetener and stir or shake again.
Serve: Fill a glass with ice and pour the matcha mixture over it.
Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the smooth, refreshing flavor of Matcha Cold Brew.
Tips
Use cold, filtered water or chilled milk for the best taste.
For a creamier texture, use oat milk or soy milk.
Adjust the amount of matcha and sweetener to suit your taste.
Taste and Pairings
What Does Matcha Cold Brew Taste Like?
Matcha Cold Brew has a unique flavor. It is grassy, slightly bitter, and earthy, with a natural sweetness. The cold brew method makes it smoother and less astringent than hot matcha tea. When milk is added, it becomes creamy and balanced, often compared to a green tea latte but lighter and more refreshing.
High-quality matcha has a rich umami flavor. This means it has a savory and full-bodied taste. Lower-quality matcha can taste more bitter or flat, so using good matcha powder is important.
Best Pairings with Matcha Cold Brew
Matcha Cold Brew pairs well with light and fresh foods. Here are some ideas:
Pastries: Croissants, scones, or shortbread cookies
Fruits: Strawberries, blueberries, or mango
Breakfast Foods: Yogurt parfaits, avocado toast, or granola
Savory Snacks: Edamame, rice crackers, or sushi rolls
Because matcha has a delicate flavor, it’s best to avoid foods that are too rich or heavily spiced when drinking Matcha Cold Brew.
Calories and Nutrition
Is Matcha Cold Brew Healthy?
Matcha Cold Brew can be a healthy drink, especially if you skip the sweeteners. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially a type called catechins. One of the most powerful catechins is EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which may help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and aid in weight loss.
Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm and focus. When combined with caffeine, it gives a more stable and smooth energy boost compared to coffee, with less chance of a crash or jitters.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per 8 oz serving)
Calories: 5 to 150, depending on milk and sweeteners
Caffeine: 25–70 mg (depending on matcha type and amount)
Fat: 0–7 grams
Carbohydrates: 0–20 grams
Protein: 0–4 grams
Antioxidants: High (especially EGCG)
Using water only with no sweetener will make it very low in calories. Adding milk and sweeteners will increase the calorie content.
Comparison to Other Drinks
Matcha Cold Brew (unsweetened): ~5–10 calories
Iced Matcha Latte with Milk and Sugar: ~120–180 calories
Cold Brew Coffee (black): ~5 calories
Iced Coffee with Cream and Sugar: ~100–200 calories
Matcha Cold Brew is a smart choice if you want a cool, flavorful, and low-calorie drink with health benefits.
Serving Tips
Best Way to Serve Matcha Cold Brew
Use Clear Glassware: Matcha has a beautiful green color. A clear glass or tumbler shows off the drink.
Add Ice Last: Pour the matcha over the ice to keep it chilled and prevent dilution.
Garnish: Add a slice of lemon, a mint leaf, or sprinkle a little matcha powder on top for a fancy touch.
Layer It: Pour cold milk over matcha for a layered effect. Mix before drinking.
Chill Everything: Chill your glass and utensils beforehand to keep your drink colder longer.
Ideas for Customizing
Matcha Lemonade: Mix matcha with lemon juice, water, and a bit of honey.
Matcha Coconut Cold Brew: Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Matcha Sparkler: Add sparkling water for a fizzy drink.
Matcha Protein Shake: Blend matcha with protein powder and milk for a post-workout boost.
Matcha Cold Brew is a flexible drink. You can experiment with ingredients until you find your perfect version.
Conclusion
Matcha Cold Brew is more than just a trendy drink. It combines the ancient tradition of matcha tea with modern cold brewing methods. It’s simple to make, tastes refreshing, and offers many health benefits.
Whether you like it plain or with milk, sweetened or not, Matcha Cold Brew is a great way to enjoy matcha in a cool, new way. It’s good for hot days, healthy living, or just as a calm, energizing break in your day.
Try making your own Matcha Cold Brew at home. With just a few ingredients and tools, you can enjoy a drink that is both tasty and good for you.
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