Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte
Highlighted under: Ready-to-Serve
I absolutely love the combination of creamy matcha and sweet strawberries, and this Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte is my favorite way to enjoy both. The earthy notes of matcha pair so well with the vibrant flavor of strawberries, creating a comforting drink that's perfect for chilly days. I’ve refined this recipe to achieve a smooth, rich texture, making each sip feel like a warm hug. Whether I’m enjoying it during a quiet morning or sharing it with friends, this drink never fails to impress.
When I first experimented with adding strawberries to my matcha, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. I had fun tweaking the balance of sweetness, ensuring the strawberry puree didn’t overpower the matcha. The result is a delightful beverage that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also dresses my mug in stunning green and pink hues.
I like to prepare fresh strawberry puree instead of using flavored syrups, as it brings out the natural sweetness and freshness of the fruit. Whipping up this latte has become a delightful ritual for me, always starting my day on the right note.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The unique combination of earthy matcha and sweet strawberries.
- A cozy drink that warms you from the inside out.
- Health benefits of matcha combined with the fruity goodness of strawberries.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Using ripe, in-season strawberries significantly enhances the flavor of your Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte. Look for strawberries that are plump and fragrant, as they will yield a more robust puree. If fresh strawberries are not available, you can opt for frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid, which could dilute the drink's consistency.
When it comes to matcha powder, not all varieties are created equal. Opt for a high-quality ceremonial grade matcha for the best flavor and health benefits. This grade is vibrant green and finely ground, which will dissolve easily and provide that smooth texture. Lower grades may have a grassy taste and can clump, negatively affecting the latte's creaminess.
Techniques for Perfecting Your Latte
For the strawberry puree, cook the berries on medium heat to ensure they soften without burning. Stirring frequently helps to evenly break them down. When blending, allow the mixture to cool slightly to avoid splattering hot liquid. The desired consistency is smooth, like a thick sauce, which should easily mix with your matcha without sinking to the bottom.
Whisking your matcha properly is crucial for a lump-free texture. Use a bamboo whisk, if available, as it aerates the mixture, creating a light and fluffy consistency. Start with a small amount of hot water and vigorously whisk in an 'M' or 'W' motion to break up any clumps. Gradually incorporate more water until fully blended, then you can add this to your latte.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients needed for your delightful Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup water
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Now that you have all the ingredients, let's move on to the preparation.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte.
Make the Strawberry Puree
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries and honey. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend until smooth.
Prepare the Matcha
In another saucepan, heat the water until it’s just below boiling. In a bowl, whisk together the matcha powder with a few tablespoons of the hot water until smooth and lump-free. Gradually add the rest of the hot water and mix well.
Combine and Serve
In two mugs, add the strawberry puree evenly. Pour the prepared matcha over the puree, then top with steamed milk. If desired, finish with whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Your Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte is now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- For an extra twist, try adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the milk before steaming. It enhances the flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte is a delightful drink to serve at gatherings or cozy brunches. Consider pairing it with light pastries or fruit-based desserts that complement the lovely strawberry notes. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or seeds on top can also elevate the presentation and add a nice crunch.
For a more indulgent experience, try adding a dash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the matcha before whisking. This small addition can enhance the flavor profile, making each sip even more enjoyable. Just be cautious with the amounts, as you want the primary flavors of strawberry and matcha to shine.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can prepare the strawberry puree in advance. It stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This means you can whip up your latte in a matter of minutes on busy mornings. Just reheat the puree gently before combining it with the matcha and milk.
If you plan to make a larger batch for gatherings, simply scale up the ingredients accordingly. Keep the proportions the same, but blend all strawberries together to maintain a uniform flavor. Remember, the matcha's flavor profile can change slightly with larger quantities, so whisk each bowl independently for the best results.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before making the puree for the best texture.
→ What type of milk should I use?
You can use any milk you prefer, including almond, oat, or soy milk. Each type will offer a different taste to the latte.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
→ How can I make my matcha less bitter?
Make sure to whisk the matcha properly and use water that is not boiling to avoid making the matcha taste bitter.
Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte
I absolutely love the combination of creamy matcha and sweet strawberries, and this Hot Strawberry Matcha Latte is my favorite way to enjoy both. The earthy notes of matcha pair so well with the vibrant flavor of strawberries, creating a comforting drink that's perfect for chilly days. I’ve refined this recipe to achieve a smooth, rich texture, making each sip feel like a warm hug. Whether I’m enjoying it during a quiet morning or sharing it with friends, this drink never fails to impress.
Created by: Sloane Patterson
Recipe Type: Ready-to-Serve
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup water
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
How-To Steps
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries and honey. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend until smooth.
In another saucepan, heat the water until it’s just below boiling. In a bowl, whisk together the matcha powder with a few tablespoons of the hot water until smooth and lump-free. Gradually add the rest of the hot water and mix well.
In two mugs, add the strawberry puree evenly. Pour the prepared matcha over the puree, then top with steamed milk. If desired, finish with whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra twist, try adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the milk before steaming. It enhances the flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g