Iced vanilla matcha latte in a clear glass with creamy milk and vibrant green matcha swirls, served over ice with matcha powder and vanilla accents on a soft neutral background.

How to Make an Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte (Smooth & Creamy)

Soft & Fluffy Matcha Donuts (Baked, Not Fried)

Why You’ll Love This Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte

If you’ve ever wanted to know how to make a smooth, café-style iced vanilla matcha latte at home, this recipe is the perfect starting point. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing — without being heavy or overly sugary.

This drink comes together with just a few simple ingredients, letting high-quality matcha and vanilla shine.
As a result, it feels indulgent yet balanced, making it easy to enjoy any time of day.

Smooth, Creamy, and Perfectly Balanced

Because this matcha latte is iced and gently sweetened with vanilla, it tastes soft and mellow rather than grassy or bitter. There’s no harsh green-tea bite — just a silky texture and clean flavor in every sip.

At the same time, the milk creates a creamy finish that feels café-luxurious without needing syrups or complicated steps.
In other words, it’s simple, elegant, and effortlessly satisfying.

A Touch of Vanilla That Elevates the Matcha

Pure vanilla adds warmth and subtle sweetness that complements matcha’s natural earthiness. Instead of overpowering the drink, the vanilla enhances the green-tea notes and smooths everything out.

The result is a latte that feels calming, refreshing, and refined — perfect for slow mornings, afternoon breaks, or a homemade coffee-shop moment.

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Why This Recipe Works

First, the Texture Is Smooth and Café-Creamy

To begin with, this iced vanilla matcha latte is built for balance rather than heaviness. The matcha is properly whisked and combined with cold milk, creating a smooth, velvety texture without clumps.

Additionally, using ice after the matcha is fully dissolved keeps the drink refreshing while preserving its creamy mouthfeel from the first sip to the last.

Next, the Matcha Flavor Stays Mellow — Never Bitter

Instead of overpowering the drink, high-quality matcha is carefully measured and gently sweetened. This allows the green-tea flavor to stay clean, earthy, and refined.

At the same time, vanilla adds warmth and softness, rounding out the matcha’s natural depth without masking it.

Finally, the Method Is Simple and Repeatable

Because this latte requires no syrups, blenders, or complicated steps, it’s easy to make consistently at home.

Most importantly, the result tastes café-style every time — smooth, lightly sweet, and perfectly refreshing.

Ingredients for an iced vanilla matcha latte including matcha powder, vanilla extract, milk, sweetener, ice, and water

Ingredients

Matcha Base

  • 1–2 teaspoons ceremonial-grade matcha powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling)

Latte Components

  • ¾ cup milk of choice (whole, oat, almond, or barista-style)
  • 1–2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla syrup
  • 1–2 teaspoons sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or sugar)
  • Ice

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Small bowl or matcha bowl
  • Bamboo whisk or small whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Tall glass
  • Spoon or stirrer
  • Ice cube tray (optional)
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Directions

  1. First, sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to remove any clumps. Add hot (not boiling) water and whisk until completely smooth and frothy.
    Whisking matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy
  2. Next, stir in the vanilla syrup or vanilla extract while the matcha is still warm. Mix gently until fully combined.
    Adding vanilla to freshly whisked matcha
  3. Fill a tall glass with ice, then pour in your milk of choice until the glass is about three-quarters full.
    Pouring milk over ice in a tall glass
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  5. Slowly pour the vanilla matcha mixture over the milk and ice, allowing the layers to naturally form.
    Pouring matcha over milk to create layered iced latte
  6. Gently stir to combine, adjusting sweetness if needed. Add extra vanilla syrup for a more dessert-like finish.
    Stirring iced vanilla matcha latte until blended
  7. Finally, enjoy immediately while cold and creamy. This latte is best served fresh for the smoothest flavor and texture.
    Finished iced vanilla matcha latte ready to drink
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Iced vanilla matcha latte with creamy layers, ice, and soft vanilla tones

Nutrition (Approx.)

Per serving
Calories190
Total Fat6 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Carbohydrates28 g
Sugar16 g
Protein5 g

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands, milk choice, sweeteners, and portion sizes. This iced vanilla matcha latte is a smooth, refreshing drink created for enjoyment and balance—not strict nutritional tracking.

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and substitutions used. This matcha Swiss roll is a light, airy dessert designed for enjoyment and balance rather than strict nutritional tracking.

Why This Recipe Works

First, whisking the matcha properly with cold liquid ensures a smooth, lump-free base. This step allows the matcha to fully bloom, creating a creamy texture without bitterness.

Next, vanilla adds warmth and softness that naturally balances matcha’s earthy notes. When paired with milk and gentle sweetness, the flavor becomes smooth, calm, and café-style.

Finally, serving the latte over ice keeps it refreshing while preserving its creamy body. The result is a perfectly layered drink that feels indulgent yet light and easy to enjoy.

  • Smooth, clump-free matcha every time
  • Vanilla balances earthy green-tea notes
  • Simple method with café-quality results

Flavor Profile

This iced vanilla matcha latte is smooth, creamy, and lightly sweet, with a calm green-tea depth that feels clean and refreshing rather than grassy or sharp. The matcha is balanced and mellow, never bitter.

Soft vanilla adds warmth and roundness, blending seamlessly with cold milk and ice for a drink that feels indulgent yet easy. Each sip is cool, comforting, and café-smooth — perfect for slow mornings or an afternoon reset.

Creamy & Smooth Vanilla-Kissed Lightly Sweet Refreshing Iced
FAQ
Quick answers for your best iced vanilla matcha latte.
What kind of matcha should I use for a latte?

Use a high-quality culinary matcha for everyday lattes. If you want an extra-smooth, less bitter flavor, ceremonial-grade matcha works beautifully—just whisk it well so it dissolves evenly.

Why is my matcha clumpy?

Matcha clumps when it isn’t whisked enough or when it’s added straight into cold milk. For the smoothest latte, whisk matcha with a small splash of warm water first (or sift it), then pour over ice and milk.

How do I keep my iced matcha latte from tasting bitter?

Use fresh, bright-green matcha, don’t overmeasure, and balance it with vanilla + your preferred sweetness. Bitter matcha is often older, lower-quality, or not whisked thoroughly.

What milk is best for an iced vanilla matcha latte?

Barista-style oat milk gives the creamiest café texture. Whole milk is rich and smooth, while almond milk keeps it lighter. Choose what matches your vibe—this recipe works with all of them.

Can I make this drink dairy-free?

Yes—use oat, almond, coconut, or soy milk. For the closest café-style creaminess, use barista oat milk and a good vanilla syrup (or vanilla extract + sweetener).

Can I make the matcha mixture ahead of time?

You can whisk the matcha with water and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or re-whisk before using, since matcha naturally settles.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla syrup?

Absolutely. Use a small splash of vanilla extract, then sweeten to taste with honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener. Syrup is just the quickest option for a café finish.

How do I store leftovers?

This latte is best fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake before drinking because the matcha will settle at the bottom over time.

Storage & Make Ahead
Fresh Is Best: This iced vanilla matcha latte tastes best right after mixing, when the matcha is fully suspended and the ice is fresh.
Refrigerator: You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 24 hours in a sealed jar or bottle. Shake or stir well before drinking, as matcha naturally settles.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing isn’t recommended. Ice crystals and separation can affect the texture and mute the matcha flavor once thawed.
Make Ahead Tip: Whisk the matcha with water ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour over ice, add milk and vanilla, and stir for a fresh café-style finish.
Recipe Variations
  • Extra Vanilla: Add an additional ¼ tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for a richer café-style flavor.
  • Honey Sweetened: Swap simple syrup for honey or maple syrup for a softer, natural sweetness.
  • Oat Milk Latte: Use barista-style oat milk for a creamy, lightly nutty finish.
  • Almond Vanilla: Replace vanilla with ¼ tsp almond extract for a cozy twist.
  • Vanilla Cold Foam: Top with lightly whipped vanilla cold foam for a coffeehouse feel.
  • Iced Coconut Matcha: Use coconut milk and vanilla for a tropical, smooth sip.
  • Unsweetened: Skip sweetener entirely to let the matcha shine.
  • Hot Version: Skip the ice and heat the milk gently for a warm vanilla matcha latte.

Printable Recipe Card

Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte (Smooth & Creamy)

Prep: 5 min  •  Cook: None  •  Yield: 1 drink

Ingredients

  • Matcha powder
  • Hot water (not boiling)
  • Milk of choice
  • Vanilla extract or vanilla syrup
  • Sweetener (optional)
  • Ice

Directions

  1. Whisk matcha with hot water until smooth and fully dissolved.
  2. Fill a glass with ice.
  3. Pour in milk and vanilla.
  4. Add sweetener if desired and stir gently.
  5. Top with whisked matcha.
  6. Stir, sip, and enjoy immediately.
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About The Matcha Table

The Matcha Table began with a moment I still think about often: in 2012, I traveled to Japan to visit my sister and we shared matcha at a beautiful onsen—quiet, steamy air, soft light, and that first sip that felt both grounding and special.

That experience shaped how I see matcha today: not just as an ingredient, but as a ritual—calm, intentional, and quietly luxurious.

Here, you’ll find tea-forward recipes where elevated flavor meets everyday ease—desserts and drinks that are balanced, refined, and thoughtfully crafted for slow mornings, cozy afternoons, and moments worth savoring.

Where matcha meets calm, comfort, and craft.

Benefits of Ceremonial-Grade Matcha

A soulful, antioxidant-rich powder known for calm focus, steady energy, and an overall feel-good, bakery-style glow.

  • Calm, Focused Energy – gentle lift from L-theanine and caffeine, without the jitters or crash.
  • Rich in Antioxidants – concentrated catechins, especially EGCG, help fight everyday oxidative stress.
  • Supports Metabolism – may gently support metabolism and fat-burn when paired with a balanced lifestyle.
  • Steady Mood & Clarity – the L-theanine + caffeine duo is loved for promoting clarity, focus, and a more centered state.
  • Everyday Ritual – turning matcha into a small daily ritual can encourage slower mornings and intentional self-care.

"> Matcha isn’t a medical treatment, but it can be a beautiful part of a balanced lifestyle. Learn more about potential matcha benefits from this evidence-based overview .