Dirty Matcha Latte (Matcha & Espresso)
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Beverage
Cuisine
American
Servings
1
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Have you also been wondering, or perhaps even researching, the ongoing confusion between matcha green tea and coffee? What if we told you there’s a whole bunch of people who’ve actually started combining these two drinks, and they’ve been loving it? What began as an experiment has become a daily ritual for many, thanks to the way matcha’s grassy, earthy flavor pairs with the deep, roasted notes of coffee. This drink, often referred to as a dirty matcha, is gaining popularity as a bold and energizing choice. We’ve put together a simple recipe so you can try it at home and see what the buzz is all about!
Ingredients
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1 tsp high-quality matcha powder (culinary grade or café grade matcha)
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2 oz hot water (about 175°F / 80°C)
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1 shot espresso (1 oz)
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6 oz milk of choice (dairy, oat, almond milk, etc.)
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Optional: Sweetener to taste (honey, simple syrup, vanilla syrup)
Directions
Prepare the matcha
Sift the matcha powder into a matcha bowl or mug to avoid clumps.
Add the hot water and whisk using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a milk frother until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
Make the coffee
If you have an espresso machine, brew a single shot of espresso (about 1 oz).
No espresso machine? Here are some alternatives:
Use 2–3 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee from a moka pot, AeroPress, or drip machine (use less water for a more potent brew).
Dissolve 1–2 teaspoons of instant coffee (depending on your preferred strength) in 1–2 tablespoons of hot water to create a concentrated, shot-like base.
Heat and froth the milk
Warm the milk on the stove or in the microwave (don’t boil it), then froth using a handheld frother or shake it in a sealed jar.
Assemble the drink
Pour the frothed milk into a glass.
Add the shot of espresso.
Gently pour the prepared matcha mixture over the top.
(You can reverse the order for a layered look or stir it all together.)
Optional: Add a sweetener to the matcha or milk before combining if you prefer a sweeter drink.
To make it an iced latte: Use cold milk, pour everything over ice, and enjoy it chilled.
Recipe Note
Why Dirty Matcha Is Worth Trying
Dirty matcha is an excellent option for anyone who finds themselves torn between wanting a matcha latte and needing that extra jolt of caffeine. It combines the best of both worlds: the smooth, earthy flavor of matcha with the rich, roasted depth of coffee. The result is a refreshing drink that’s energizing and easy to adjust based on what you have on hand or your current mood.
You don’t need special equipment or barista skills to make it, just a way to brew some strong coffee or espresso and a quick method to whisk your matcha. Instant coffee works just fine, and plant-based milks hold up well if you prefer dairy-free options. It can be made hot or iced, sweetened or not, depending on your taste. Try it once, then experiment to see how you like it best.
