Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe: Easy Café Drink

Name: Strawberry Matcha Latte Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 (16oz glass)
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon matcha powder, ceremonial grade; 2 oz hot water; 1 teaspoon liquid sweetener (agave nectar or honey); 5 oz milk (dairy or plant-based, oat milk recommended); Ice; 2–3 medium strawberries; 2 oz heavy cream; 1 oz milk; 1 teaspoon sweetener

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If you’re craving something that’s both beautiful and delicious, this strawberry matcha latte recipe is exactly what you need. The drink layers sweet strawberry cream with earthy matcha, giving you a café-style treat that feels like summer in every sip. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to recreate at home—you don’t need fancy barista tools, just good matcha, fresh strawberries, and your favorite milk.

In this article, I’ll share the story behind my first sip, why the flavors work so well together, and step-by-step tips so you can make your own version, whether you prefer it iced or warm.

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My First Sip of Strawberry Matcha Latte

The first time I tried a strawberry matcha latte, I was tucked into a tiny café in Barcelona, chasing that perfect afternoon pick-me-up. I wasn’t expecting much—just a pretty drink for a warm day. But the moment I took a sip, I knew this wasn’t just about looks. The grassy, slightly bitter matcha balanced perfectly with the sweet burst of strawberry, creating something that felt both comforting and new. That experience inspired me to test and perfect my own strawberry matcha latte recipe at home, so I could bring that café magic into my kitchen.

I love recipes like this because they aren’t complicated but still feel special. You don’t have to be a pro to make it; you just need a whisk, some strawberries, and a little patience for layering. It’s the same joy I felt when creating my matcha gateau recipe, which also celebrates the vibrant flavors of green tea in a simple yet elegant way. Drinks and desserts like these are why I adore baking and recipe testing.

Why This Drink Feels Like Summer in a Glass

Part of the charm of this strawberry matcha latte recipe is its seasonal vibe. Fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness and a pop of pink, while the matcha gives that deep green layer we all know and love. Together, they create a drink that looks like it belongs on a café menu but tastes like something you’d make in your grandma’s kitchen—simple, fresh, and full of heart.

What’s even better is how versatile this recipe can be. You can make it iced on a hot day, swap in oat milk for a creamy plant-based option, or even warm it up during colder months. The combination works across seasons, just like my strawberry cream cheese pound cake, which can be enjoyed on both spring picnics and cozy winter afternoons.

At the end of the day, this drink isn’t just about quenching your thirst—it’s about slowing down, layering flavors, and savoring something you made with care. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.

What Makes Strawberry and Matcha a Perfect Pair

Why Strawberry and Matcha Are a Perfect Pair

One of the questions I get most often is: do strawberry and matcha really go together? The answer is a big yes—and it’s all about balance. Matcha has earthy, slightly bitter notes that can sometimes feel strong on their own. Pairing it with strawberries, which are naturally sweet and bright, creates harmony in the glass. The sweetness softens the green tea edge, while the fruitiness lifts the flavor, making the drink taste refreshing instead of heavy.

I first noticed this balance when testing desserts like my matcha cake recipe. Just like pairing matcha with white chocolate, strawberries provide a gentle contrast that highlights the green tea’s depth without overpowering it. It’s why so many Japanese-inspired desserts feature both flavors—they complement each other in a way that feels timeless.

The Science Behind the Flavor Harmony

Beyond taste buds, there’s science at play. Matcha is rich in umami, that savory fifth flavor that makes foods like mushrooms and soy sauce so satisfying. Strawberries, on the other hand, are packed with natural sugars and a touch of tartness. When combined, they create a layered flavor experience that keeps you sipping.

This pairing also works texturally. The creamy strawberry layer blends seamlessly into the smooth, foamy matcha latte, creating a drink that’s as pleasing to sip as it is to look at. It’s the same principle that makes my strawberry cool whip pie a hit—soft, creamy textures paired with bursts of fruity freshness.

So, the next time someone asks you if strawberries and matcha are a good match, you can confidently say they’re more than good—they’re meant to be.

How to Make the Perfect Strawberry Matcha Latte

Mastering the Matcha Layer

When it comes to making a strawberry matcha latte recipe at home, the first step is nailing the matcha. A common mistake is skipping the sift—matcha clumps easily, and no one wants grainy green tea in their drink. Start by sifting one teaspoon of ceremonial-grade matcha into a small bowl, then whisk it with hot water (not boiling) until frothy. A bamboo whisk is traditional, but a handheld frother works just as well. Add your sweetener here while the liquid is warm so it dissolves smoothly.

blending strawberry cream for matcha latte

Choosing the right milk makes a big difference too. Oat milk creates the creamiest texture, while almond and soy milk add a nutty undertone. If you prefer dairy, whole milk will give you that classic latte richness. This step is similar to when I tested different bases for my strawberry crepe recipe—the milk you choose really changes the final flavor.

Creating Strawberry Sweet Cream or Syrup

The fun part comes with the strawberry layer, and here you have options. You can blend strawberries with cream and a touch of milk to create a sweet foam, or cook down strawberries with sugar into a syrup for a more concentrated flavor. Both methods are easy, but they create slightly different drinks:

Method	Flavor Profile	Best For
Strawberry Sweet Cream	Light, creamy, like melted ice cream	Refreshing summer drinks
Strawberry Syrup	Sweet, concentrated berry flavor	Layered Starbucks-style drinks

If you’re in the mood for something creamy and dreamy, go with the sweet cream. But if you want a drink that looks as good as it tastes, syrup gives you that signature layered café look. I often lean toward syrup when I’m recreating a drink to pair with my strawberry cheesecake cookies, since the concentrated flavor holds its own next to richer desserts.

Starbucks Copycat & Creative Variations

How to Make Starbucks Strawberry Matcha Latte at Home

If you’ve ever ordered a strawberry matcha latte at Starbucks, you know it’s as pretty as it is pricey. The good news? You can make it at home for a fraction of the cost, and it’ll taste even fresher. The key is layering. First, spoon a bit of strawberry syrup or purée into the bottom of your glass. Add ice, pour in your milk of choice, then slowly layer the whisked matcha on top. Finally, finish with a drizzle of extra strawberry syrup or a swirl of strawberry sweet cream.

The layering might look tricky, but it’s all about pouring slowly. Think of it like when I make my strawberry dole whip—patience is what gives you that dreamy gradient effect. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find your homemade version not only looks like the Starbucks drink, but actually tastes fresher and less sugary.

Flavor Twists and Seasonal Add-ins

One of my favorite things about this strawberry matcha latte recipe is how customizable it is. For a cozy fall vibe, try adding a splash of vanilla or even pumpkin spice to the milk. During summer, a touch of coconut milk can make it taste like a tropical escape. You could even swirl in honey or drizzle a little white chocolate syrup on top for extra indulgence.

Seasonal add-ins make the drink feel new each time, much like how my lemon balm tea recipe shifts with the herbs I use from season to season. The base stays the same, but little tweaks make it exciting year-round. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you may stumble on your own signature twist that rivals Starbucks itself.

FAQs About Strawberry Matcha Latte

How to make matcha and strawberry latte?

To make a strawberry matcha latte, start by whisking sifted matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy. Separately, blend strawberries with cream or make a syrup. Pour strawberry syrup or cream into a glass, add ice, then milk, and finally top with your whisked matcha for a layered look.

Do strawberry and matcha go together?

Yes! The earthy bitterness of matcha pairs beautifully with the sweet, bright flavor of strawberries. Together, they create a balanced drink that’s both refreshing and satisfying, much like other classic Japanese flavor pairings.

How to make Starbucks strawberry matcha at home?

Recreate the Starbucks version by layering strawberry syrup at the bottom of your glass, then adding ice, milk, and whisked matcha on top. Finish with extra strawberry cream for that café-style presentation. It’s a simple process that delivers professional results.

How to make your own strawberry syrup for matcha?

Homemade strawberry syrup is easy. Just simmer chopped strawberries with sugar and a little water until the fruit breaks down and the mixture thickens. Strain it, let it cool, and use it to sweeten and flavor your latte. It lasts about a week in the fridge.

Conclusion

This strawberry matcha latte recipe is more than just a pretty drink—it’s a refreshing way to enjoy café flavors at home. The balance of earthy matcha and sweet strawberries creates a layered sip that feels indulgent yet light, perfect for mornings, afternoons, or even as a dessert alternative.

If you loved this recipe, I’d love for you to share your creations. Tag me when you make it, and let’s keep spreading the sweet inspiration together. You can join our baking community over on Facebook or save your favorite recipes for later on Pinterest. After all, delicious drinks are always better when shared.