matcha at home 🍵

Hey matcha lovers! Like many of you, I've been trying to cut down on my daily Starbucks spend, and my matcha latte habit was definitely adding up. So, I decided to take the plunge and try making my own homemade matcha for the first time! And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. If you're wondering 'what do you need to make matcha' or just want an easy homemade matcha recipe, you've come to the right place. First off, the beauty of making matcha at home is how much control you have over the ingredients. My secret to that cafe-quality creaminess? Extra creamy oat milk! It really makes all the difference. Beyond that, here’s a simple list of what you’ll need to get started on your own delicious homemade matcha journey: Ingredients: Matcha Powder: This is key! Invest in a good quality ceremonial or culinary grade matcha. It affects both flavor and color. Hot Water: Not boiling! Around 175°F (80°C) is ideal to prevent bitterness. Milk of Choice: I swear by extra creamy oat milk, but almond, soy, or regular milk works too. Sweetener (Optional): Honey, maple syrup, or agave if you like it sweet. Tools: Matcha Whisk (Chasen): Essential for a smooth, frothy texture. If you don't have one, a small kitchen whisk can work in a pinch, but it won't be quite as frothy. Matcha Bowl (Chawan): A wide bowl helps with whisking. A regular mug will do if you're just starting out. Sifter/Fine-Mesh Sieve: To prevent lumps. This is a game-changer! Teaspoon/Scoop: For measuring matcha. My Simple Steps for a Yummy Homemade Matcha Latte: Sift Your Matcha: This is a crucial step I learned from my first attempt! Take about 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder and sift it directly into your matcha bowl. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth drink. Add Hot Water: Pour about 2-3 ounces of hot (not boiling!) water over the sifted matcha. Whisk It Up: Using your bamboo whisk, whisk vigorously in a 'W' or 'M' shape until a frothy layer forms on top and there are no lumps. This is where you get that beautiful, vibrant green tea. Don't be afraid to put a little elbow grease into it! Heat Your Milk: Gently warm your extra creamy oat milk on the stove or in the microwave. You can also froth it if you have a frother for that extra cafe feel. I find a handheld frother works wonders. Combine & Sweeten: Pour the whisked matcha into your favorite mug. Add your warm oat milk. If you like it sweet, stir in your preferred sweetener now. I sometimes put too much, but it's okay, it still tastes so yummy! Enjoy! My first time making it, I definitely had a small spill (being a good bf and cleaning my spill was part of the process!), but the result was so worth it. It’s amazing how much you can save and how delicious a homemade matcha latte can be. Give it a try, you might just find your new favorite morning ritual and stop spending money on Starbucks matcha too!