Mint Chocolate Matcha Latte
Are you looking to spice up your morning routine with something unique and delicious? Why not try making a Mint Chocolate Matcha Latte at home? This easy recipe combines the earthy depth of matcha green tea with the rich, luxurious flavors of chocolate and mint, making it a perfect drink for the holiday season or any time you need a little extra indulgence.
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Why Matcha and What are the Benefits?
Matcha is a special kind of green tea powder that’s packed with health benefits. It’s full of antioxidants, which are natural substances that help keep your cells healthy and protect them from damage. One of these antioxidants, called EGCG, is especially good at this and can also help keep your heart healthy by lowering bad cholesterol and blood pressure. Matcha also contains a unique amino acid called L-theanine, which helps you feel relaxed without making you sleepy. Plus, it has a little caffeine, but not as much as coffee, so it gives you a gentle boost of energy that lasts a long time without making you feel jittery. This makes matcha a great choice for staying focused and alert.
Ingredients
Matcha Powder
This recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of high-quality green matcha tea powder.
Cacao Powder
1 teaspoon to bring a deep chocolate flavor. If you don’t have cacao powder, cocoa powder will work just fine!
Milk
You will need 1/2 cup (you can use oat milk, almond milk, or any milk of your choice for a dairy-free option).
Water
We will be using 1/2 cup of water along with the 1/2 cup of milk.
Heavy Cream
This is optional, but I like to use a frother on 1/4 cup of heavy cream to top off my matcha latte!
Mint Extract
I make my own mint extract, but store bought is fine. You only need 1/8th of a tsp, but you can certainly add more if you prefer your latte to be more minty.
Maple Syrup
Adding 1 teaspoon of maple syrup gives it natural sweetness.
Supplies
- Coffee Mug: To mix and serve your latte
- Small Pot: For boiling water and milk
- Matcha Whisk or Small Whisk: To mix matcha and cacao powder smoothly
- Milk Frother: To get that creamy, frothy top layer
Detailed Instructions for Making a Mint Chocolate Matcha Lattes
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients ready: matcha powder, cacao powder, milk, water, heavy cream, mint extract, and maple syrup.
Measure Precisely
Use precise measurements to ensure the best taste. You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of matcha, 1 teaspoon of cacao powder, 1/2 cup each of milk and water, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/8 teaspoon of mint extract, and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup.
Step 2: Boil Water and Milk
Combine Liquids
In a small pot, add 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of milk. Use any milk of your choice, such as whole milk, almond, or oat milk, depending on your dietary preferences.
Heat Mixture
Place the pot on the stove and bring the mixture just to a boil and then turn it off. Be careful to watch it to prevent boiling over.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Prepare Mug
In your favorite coffee mug, add 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder and 1 teaspoon of cacao powder.
Sift Powders
For a smoother texture, sift the matcha and cacao powders into the mug to avoid clumps. This step is definitely optional and something I rarely do.
Step 4: Combine Liquids and Dry Ingredients
Pour Hot Mixture
Carefully pour the warmed milk and water mixture over the matcha and cacao powders in your mug.
Stir Well
Use a small whisk or spoon to stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is well dissolved and smooth.
Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancers
Incorporate Flavors
To the mixture in your mug, add 1/8 teaspoon of mint or peppermint extract for that refreshing minty flavor and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup for sweetness. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Froth the Cream
Froth Cream
Use a milk frother to froth 1/4 cup of heavy cream until it’s light and creamy. If you don’t have a milk frother, you can shake the cream in a tightly sealed jar or use an electric mixer.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Add Frothed Cream
Gently pour the frothed heavy cream over the matcha mixture in your mug. Pour slowly and from a low height to maintain distinct layers.
Final Touch
For an extra touch of flair, you could sprinkle a little matcha powder, chocolate shavings or fresh mint leaves on top of the froth.
Tips for Perfect Results
Water Temperature
Ensure your water is hot enough to dissolve the matcha and cacao but not boiling when it hits the powder to avoid burning the matcha, which can create a bitter taste.
Quality of Matcha
Use high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor and color in your latte.
Experiment with Toppings
Customize your latte by adding different toppings like whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a few chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Mint Chocolate Matcha Latte
Flavorful and Refreshing
The unique combination of matcha, chocolate, and mint offers a taste that’s both invigorating and comforting.
Perfect for Any Season
While ideal for the holiday season, this latte is also great as a cooling drink during warmer months when served over ice.
Health Benefits
Matcha is known for its high antioxidant content and can boost your energy levels without the jitteriness associated with coffee. So in essence, it is a healthier caffeinated drink.
Versatile
Easily adaptable, you can make this drink dairy-free by substituting the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Or you can add ice cubes and make it an iced matcha latte! This would also be a perfect holiday drink, use a candy cane to stir or for extra garnish.
Conclusion
This Mint Chocolate Matcha Latte recipe is not just a drink, but an experience to enjoy. Whether you’re wrapping up a chilly morning or need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this latte promises to deliver satisfaction in every sip. So next time you visit your grocery store, pick up these simple ingredients and treat yourself to this delightful concoction.
Mint Chocolate Matcha Latte
Equipment
- 1 coffee mug
- 1 small pot
- 1 frother optional
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp matcha powder
- 1 tsp cacao powder
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/8 tsp mint extract
- 1 tsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of water in a small pot.
- Heat the mixture on the stove until it just begins to boil.
- In your coffee mug, add 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder and 1 teaspoon of cacao powder.
- Once the milk and water mixture is hot, pour it over the matcha and cacao powders in the mug.
- Stir thoroughly with a whisk or spoon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Stir in 1/8 teaspoon of mint extract and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup into the matcha mixture. Mix well.
- Use a milk frother to froth 1/4 cup of heavy cream until it becomes light and creamy.
- Gently pour the frothed cream over the matcha mixture in the mug, allowing it to float on top and create a layered effect.