If you haven’t tried a matcha chai latte yet, you’re in for a treat! The delicious combination of earthy matcha and aromatic chai spices is blended into a creamy latte. This unique blend can be enjoyed piping hot on a chilly day or transformed into a refreshing iced beverage for a cool twist.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my policy page for more information.
If you love matcha lattes and chai lattes, now you can have the best of both worlds! They’re great on their own, but perhaps even better together!
This easy recipe uses simple ingredients that rival a Starbucks matcha chai latte. Now, you can make this tasty drink for a fraction of the cost in the comfort of your own home!
I love making fancy drinks at home like this strawberry bubble tea and mango juice, instead of spending money at bubble tea shops and juice bars.
Jump to:
What is a matcha chai latte
A matcha chai latte is a captivating fusion of two distinct and cherished tea traditions—matcha and chai. At its core, matcha chai combines matcha powder, chai (a spiced tea blend originating from India, typically brewed with black tea), a creamy milk base, and a sweetener.
It’s a delicate equilibrium between the grassy, vegetal notes of matcha and the warm, spicy intricacies of chai. This synergy results in a well-rounded taste that’s both refreshing and comforting.
It can be enjoyed hot to cozy up on a chilly day or iced for a revitalizing and cooling treat on a warm afternoon. You can enjoy an enchanting cup of matcha chia year-round!
Ingredients notes
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this healthy matcha chai latte recipe! Here are the main ingredients and recommended substitutions:
- Matcha powder – This vibrant green powder is made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. It comes in various grades, with ceremonial-grade matcha being the highest quality and best suited for tea. Culinary-grade matcha powder is more commonly used in cooking and baking due to its slightly stronger flavor. Feel free to use whichever green tea powder you prefer.
- Chai concentrate – You can use a store-bought chai concentrate, which is a concentrated chai syrup, or chai tea bags. I prefer concentrate because it is already sweetened and convenient.
- Plant-based milk – If you prefer a sweeter latte, go for a sweetened soy milk or oat milk. Almond milk and coconut milk are also great options but feel free to use your favorite milk. For an extra creamy chai matcha latte, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Maple syrup – If your chai concentrate isn’t sweetened or you’re using tea bags instead, adding a touch of sweetness with maple syrup helps to balance all the flavors. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or a simple syrup with equal parts sugar and water dissolved. For less sugar, simply omit.
For exact measurements, make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to make a matcha chai latte
Prepare the matcha:
Begin by whisking matcha powder with hot water in a bowl until it becomes smooth and frothy. I used an electric milk frother, but a traditional matcha whisk or bamboo whisk can also be used. If you don’t have either, here are more ways to make matcha without a whisk.
If you don’t have either, add the matcha tea powder and water to a sealable jar like a mason jar, and shake vigorously until combined. This step creates a matcha paste that ensures your latte stays free from clumps.
For an iced matcha chai latte:
Take a glass and fill it halfway with ice cubes. Pour the chai concentrate and milk over the ice cubes. If you prefer your latte sweet, add any sweetener at this stage and stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly combined.
Pour the prepared matcha mixture over the ice and chai-milk blend.
Garnish your ice matcha chai with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy!
For hot matcha chai:
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the chai concentrate and milk over medium-low heat. Be careful not to bring the mixture to a boil. A gentle heat is all that’s needed.
- Whisk the matcha paste into the warm chai mixture. If you prefer your latte sweet, now is the time to add your desired sweetener to taste.
- Divide the hot matcha chai latte into mugs, creating a cozy and comforting beverage. For an extra touch of warmth and flavor, dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg or serve with a cinnamon stick. Savor and enjoy!
Top tips
- Adjust the intensity of chai spices to suit your taste buds. Increase or decrease the ratio of chai concentrate to milk as desired. Some chai concentrates may have more pronounced notes of certain spices or be sweeter than others.
- Elevate your latte with flavor extracts like vanilla extract or almond extract. Just a few drops can infuse your drink with a delightful aroma and taste.
Health benefits of matcha chai
A tantalizing cup of matcha chai not only offers a unique blend of flavors but also a range of potential health benefits, thanks to its key ingredients, matcha and chai:
- Abundant antioxidants: Matcha, in particular, is renowned for its exceptionally high antioxidant content. These antioxidants, primarily in the form of catechins, may help combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.
- Energy-boosting: Matcha contains caffeine, providing a gentle and sustained energy boost. What sets it apart from other energy drinks is the presence of L-theanine, an amino that works in synergy with caffeine to provide alertness and concentration without the usual jitters or energy crashes associated with other caffeinated beverages.
- Digestive benefits: Chai, with its medley of spices like ginger, cardamom, and black pepper, can aid digestion. These spices are known for their potential to soothe digestive discomfort, alleviate nausea, and promote healthy digestion after a meal.
- Metabolism: Some studies suggest that the compounds in matcha may boost metabolism and help with weight management. While it’s not a miracle weight loss solution, matcha can be part of a healthy lifestyle when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Nutrient density: Both matcha and chai contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Matcha, for instance, is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and magnesium. Chai spices like cinnamon are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
More easy drink recipes
If you enjoyed this matcha chai tea latte, you’ll love these other fun drinks:
- For a visually stunning drink that will wow guests, this Rose Latte with its beautiful pink hue is the perfect balance of espresso and soft, floral notes.
- For a fun afternoon pick-me-up, Mango Boba Tea or Matcha Bubble Tea with chewy tapioca balls are quick and easy.
- Swap out plain milk for this South Korean classic Banana Milk that can easily be made at home! It’s delicious on its own or added to cereal, oatmeal, or chia pudding for a subtle banana flavor.
- For a simple, sippable dessert, make a Coconut Shake. It can be made with or without ice cream for a lighter version!
Want to Save This Recipe?
Enter your email below and we’ll send it straight to your inbox! Plus, get weekly free recipes!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Health My Lifestyle.
Best Matcha Chai Latte (Hot or Iced)
Method
- Milk Frother or matcha whisk
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- ½ cup hot water
- 1 cup chai concentrate store-bought or homemade, see notes
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk coconut, oat, soy, almond etc.
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup optional, if your chai concentrate isn’t pre-sweetened
- Cinnamon or nutmeg optional, for garnish
- Ice cubes for iced variation
Instructions
Instructions for Hot:
- In a bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy. This creates a matcha paste that helps prevent clumps in your latte.2 teaspoons matcha powder, ½ cup hot water
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the chai concentrate and milk over medium-low heat. Do not bring it to a boil.1 cup chai concentrate, 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
- Whisk the matcha paste into the warmed chai-milk mixture. If desired, add a sweetener to taste.1-2 teaspoons maple syrup
- Divide the hot matcha chai latte into mugs. Dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth and flavor. Enjoy!Cinnamon or nutmeg
Instructions for Iced:
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth. Set aside.2 teaspoons matcha powder, ½ cup hot water
- In a glass, add ice cubes to fill the glass halfway. Pour the chai concentrate and milk over the ice cubes. Add any sweetener at this time if desired and stir well to combine all the flavors.1 cup chai concentrate, 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup, Ice cubes
- Pour the prepared matcha over the ice and chai-milk mixture. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and your iced matcha chai latte is ready to enjoy!Cinnamon or nutmeg
