Matcha has become a trendy drink in recent years, and if you’ve ever visited Starbucks, you’ve probably seen people sipping on their vibrant green Matcha Lattes. But what exactly is a Matcha Latte, and why is it so popular?
Whether you’re a tea lover or just curious about trying something new, a Matcha Latte might be the perfect drink to add to your list. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this drink so special!
What is Matcha Latte?
A Matcha Latte is a creamy drink made from matcha powder and steamed milk. Matcha is a special type of green tea that’s ground into a fine powder, so when mixed with milk, it creates a smooth and rich flavor. This drink is different from regular tea because you’re drinking the whole tea leaf, making it packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Whether served hot or iced, it’s a popular choice for people looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to coffee.
My Experience Trying Starbucks Matcha Latte
I recently tried the Starbucks Matcha Latte to see what all the hype was about. The first sip had a creamy, smooth texture, but the matcha flavor was milder than expected—likely due to the pre-sweetened matcha powder Starbucks uses. If you’re used to traditional Japanese matcha, you may find this version sweeter and less grassy.
I tried both the hot and iced versions, and the iced one felt more refreshing, while the hot version had a comforting, velvety feel. If you enjoy stronger matcha flavors, I recommend asking for fewer scoops of sweetened matcha and opting for oat or almond milk to enhance the earthy notes.
History of Matcha and Starbucks Journey
Matcha has a rich history that started in Japan, where it was used by Buddhist monks to stay focused during meditation. It’s made from finely ground green tea leaves that are shade-grown to bring out a stronger flavor and more nutrients. Over time, it became a key part of Japanese tea ceremonies and is now enjoyed by people all over the world for its unique taste and health benefits.
Starbucks introduced the Matcha Latte to its menu in 2007, offering something new for tea lovers and those looking for a healthier alternative to coffee. The Matcha Latte quickly became popular because it combines the rich, earthy flavor of matcha with creamy steamed milk, making it easy to enjoy for people who might not be familiar with matcha.
Since then, Starbucks has continued to improve and expand its Matcha Latte offerings. Today, customers can enjoy it hot or iced, choose their sweetness level, or opt for dairy-free options like almond or oat milk. Starbucks has also added other matcha drinks to the menu, like the Iced Matcha Lemonade and Matcha Frappuccino, giving fans even more ways to enjoy the popular green tea drink.
What Ingredients Are Used in Starbucks Matcha Latte?
The main ingredients in a Starbucks Matcha Latte are:
- Matcha Green Tea Powder (sweetened)
- Milk (default: 2% milk, but customizable)
- Ice (for the iced version)
Sizes, Prices And Calories
Prices for the Matcha Latte vary by location. Below are average estimates for U.S. Starbucks locations. For the most accurate pricing, check the Starbucks Website or visit a nearby store.
| Sizes | Prices | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Short (8 oz) | $5.82 | 100 |
| Tall (12 oz) | $5.93 | 170 |
| Grande (16 oz) | $6.48 | 220 |
| Venti (20 oz) | $7.02 | 290 |
Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the location
Nutrition Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values Matcha Latte:
| Nutrient | Short (8 oz) | Tall (12 oz) | Grande (16 oz) | Venti (20 oz) |
| Calories | 100 | 170 | 220 | 290 |
| Fat (g) | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 |
| Cholesterol (mg) | 10 | 20 | 25 | 30 |
| Sodium (mg) | 70 | 115 | 140 | 190 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 13 | 22 | 31 | 41 |
| Protein (g) | 5 | 8 | 11 | 14 |
| Caffeine (mg) | 20 | 45 | 65 | 85 |
Caffeine content is approximate and may vary based on brewing method and store location.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which studies suggest may support metabolism and fat oxidation (Source: PubMed Study). Research from Harvard Health also highlights that green tea catechins can help reduce inflammation and support heart health (Harvard Health Source).
What Factors Make This Drink Less Healthy?
- Added Sugar – Starbucks matcha powder contains sugar, increasing calorie intake.
- High Calories – A grande size with whole milk has around 240 calories, which can add up.
- Caffeine Sensitivity – While lower than coffee, 80mg of caffeine can still cause jitters in some people.
To make it a healthier choice, you can ask for less sweetener, non-dairy milk, or a smaller size.
Starbucks Matcha Latte vs. Coffee Latte – What’s the Difference?
If you love lattes but are unsure whether to go for a Matcha Latte or a Regular Latte, here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Matcha Latte 🟢 | Coffee Latte ☕ |
| Main Ingredient | Matcha Green Tea Powder | Espresso Coffee |
| Caffeine Content | Moderate (about 55-80mg) | Higher (about 75-150mg) |
| Taste | Earthy, slightly sweet | Bold, rich, and slightly bitter |
| Calories (Grande) | Around 240 kcal | Around 190 kcal (with 2% milk) |
| Antioxidants | ✅ High (rich in catechins) | ❌ Low compared to matcha |
| Energy Boost | Gradual, long-lasting | Quick, intense boost |
| Sugar Content | Higher (pre-sweetened matcha) | Lower (unless flavored) |
| Best For | Tea lovers, those who want sustained energy | Coffee lovers, those who need a strong caffeine kick |
Starbucks Matcha Latte Variations & Customization
One of the best things about Starbucks Matcha Latte is how easily you can customize it to match your taste. Whether you like it warm and comforting or cool and refreshing, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.
Hot vs. Iced Matcha Latte
| Type | Description |
| Hot Matcha Latte | Warm, creamy, and comforting—perfect for chilly days. |
| Iced Matcha Latte | Smooth, refreshing, and energizing for a cool pick-me-up. |
Dairy-Free Alternatives
| Milk Option | Taste & Texture |
| Almond Milk | Light, slightly nutty flavor. |
| Oat Milk | Creamy and naturally sweet. |
| Coconut Milk | Smooth with a hint of tropical flavor. |
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
| Customization | How to Do It |
| Less Sweet | Ask for fewer matcha scoops. |
| Unsweetened Option | Choose dairy-free milk with no added sugar. |
| Extra Sweet | Add vanilla, caramel, or extra sweetener. |
Extra Flavors & Toppings
| Add-On | What It Does |
| Vanilla/Caramel Syrup | Adds a sweet, flavored twist. |
| Whipped Cream | Creates a richer, creamier texture. |
| Cinnamon/Nutmeg | Adds a warm, spiced touch. |
With so many ways to customize your Starbucks Matcha Latte, you can create a drink that’s just right for you!
Best Food Pairings
A Matcha Latte pairs well with baked goods that complement its flavors. Here are some great choices:
| Bakery Item / Snack | Why It Pairs Well |
| Almond Croissant | Buttery, flaky texture enhances matcha’s creaminess. |
| Lemon Loaf | Tangy citrus balances matcha’s earthy notes. |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Sweet, rich flavor contrasts matcha’s mild bitterness. |
| Blueberry Muffin | Fruity sweetness pairs well with matcha’s smooth taste. |
| Avocado Toast | Savory and creamy, a great contrast to the latte’s sweetness. |
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these pairings make your Matcha Latte experience even better!
Best Matcha Powder for a Starbucks-Style Latte
To get a taste closest to Starbucks, choose a high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha with a vibrant green color. Some top brands include:
- MatchaBar Ceremonial Grade
- Ippodo Tea
- Jade Leaf Organic Matcha
Pro Tip: Use warm water (not boiling) to prevent bitterness & whisk in a zig-zag motion for a smoother texture!
What Do Starbucks Customers Say About Matcha Latte?
Many customers love the Matcha Latte for its smooth, creamy texture and mildly sweet, earthy flavor. Some enjoy it as a healthier alternative to coffee, while others appreciate how easy it is to customize with different milk options and flavors. However, some customers feel that the drink is too sweet due to the pre-sweetened matcha powder.
Summary of Positive and Negative Reviews
| Positive | Negative |
| Smooth, creamy, and comforting | Pre-sweetened matcha makes it too sugary for some |
| Great alternative to coffee | Expensive compared to homemade versions |
| Customizable with different milk and flavors | Some find the matcha flavor too mild |
| Refreshing when served iced |
Overall, Starbucks Matcha Latte is a popular choice for matcha lovers, but if you prefer a stronger or less sweet drink, customizing it is the best way to enjoy it! 🎯🍵
Which matcha does Starbucks use?
A pre-sweetened matcha blend (not ceremonial-grade).
What is a Dirty Matcha?
Which brand of Matcha Green Tea powder does Starbucks use?
Is Starbucks Matcha organic?
Can Matcha Latte help with weight loss?
Is Starbucks Matcha Latte healthy?
Is Matcha Latte high in caffeine?
Is Matcha Better Than Green Tea?
Does Matcha Stain Teeth?
Can I Drink Matcha at Night?
When did Starbucks introduce Matcha Latte?
Final Thoughts
Starbucks Matcha Latte is a delicious and refreshing option that combines the earthy flavor of matcha with creamy milk, offering a smooth, lightly sweet, and energizing beverage. With its added health benefits from green tea, it’s a great choice for those looking for a flavorful alternative to coffee.
However, for a healthier twist, consider customizing your drink by reducing the number of matcha scoops, opting for unsweetened milk alternatives, or adding extra flavors like vanilla or cinnamon. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, a Starbucks Matcha Latte can easily be tailored to your personal taste. So, next time you visit Starbucks, don’t hesitate to explore the endless customization possibilities and create your perfect matcha experience.