If you’re a mint lover, then you’ll love this refreshing vanilla mint matcha latte that’s just minty enough without being overpowering. The fresh mint is super fragrant and sweet, and with the vanilla bean, it’s just a divine combination. It only takes 3 steps to make this fresh mint matcha!

Here’s how to make this vanilla mint matcha latte at home!

Mint Matcha Latte Takeaways:

• Use the mint leaves and stem for the best flavor!
• Wash your mint thoroughly and remove any dirt or small bugs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s a refreshing matcha latte that’s unlike anything you’ve ever had!
• Enjoy spring with a fresh flavor combination!
• It’s easy to make and feels cafe-quality.

What is a Mint Matcha Latte?

A mint matcha latte is a refreshing matcha latte that has mint in it! You can make this multiple ways, including mint syrup or mint extract, but this version uses fresh muddled mint for the freshest flavor!

I also add a little bit of vanilla bean to add a subtle creaminess and sweetness! You can’t go wrong with a little vanilla to balance out the mint. It tastes so sweet and fresh!

What Does a Vanilla Mint Matcha Latte Taste Like?

It tastes like a fresh mint vanilla ice cream with an umami tea flavor. Since we use fresh mint, the flavor is much more herbaceous and less potent than the extract. It’s similar to the difference between a bright green mint chocolate chip ice cream and a white fresh mint ice cream. The former is sweet and has that almost toothpaste mint flavor that’s so polarizing, versus the latter, which is less minty and more earthy.

The fresh mint flavor is definitely more of an acquired taste than mint extract, which is what most people are used to. I find the extract overpowering, and fresh mint just right for matcha, especially with its slightly earthy flavor!

Do Mint and Matcha Go Well Together?

Yes! I love matcha and mint together, and they have similar flavor notes that make them a good pair. As mentioned, fresh mint has a slightly earthy flavor (kind of plant-like). Matcha also has an earthy flavor, leaning bitter at times, so the two overlap nicely.

The menthol in mint gives it that refreshing cooling effect we all know, so it brightens up the flavor profile. And while mint itself is great with matcha, a little vanilla just blends the two so nicely!

Vanilla Mint Matcha Latte Recipe: Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mint matcha latte:

• Fresh Mint — You’ll want to use the whole stalk and leaves of any type of mint. I grow spearmint in my backyard, so I just pluck a stalk or two to use. You can use the packaged herb from the grocery store, too, as long as it’s fresh. For a substitute, you could use mint extract, but start off with just 1 or 2 drops as it’s potent.
• Vanilla — I love using vanilla bean for a creamy, fragrant flavor, but you can totally use vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste! Whatever you have at your disposal.
• Matcha Powder — Use your favorite matcha powder! I like using a floral and creamy matcha powder to pair with vanilla mint, as it’s not too umami to throw off the flavors.
• Water — Use hot water at 175 F for the perfect whisking temperature. You can also eyeball this, but just don’t use boiling water. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and let your water cool more than you think.
• Milk — I love 2% or whole dairy milk in my matcha, but you can use lactose-free milk or your favorite milk alternative! You may have to adjust the amount to let the matcha shine through.
• Ice
• Sugar — Regular granulated sugar works great as a sweetener; I like dissolving it in some hot water for simple syrup. You can also use agave, maple syrup, brown sugar, etc.

How to Make a Vanilla Mint Matcha Latte

1. Muddle Mint and Sugar. Wash and dry mint leaves, then add to a cup with sugar, vanilla, and a little hot water. Use a muddler and muddle the mint with the sugar until you crush most of the stems and smell a nice minty aroma. The sugar should also dissolve completely.
2. You can choose to leave the mint leaves and stem in or remove them for a smoother texture.
3. Whisk Matcha. Sift matcha powder into a matcha bowl and add hot water. Using a chasen, vigorously whisk matcha for 20 – 30 seconds in a zigzag motion, drawing letter M’s in the bowl. Keep whisking until you see a velvety foam with tiny bubbles.
4. Assemble Drink. Add ice and milk to your muddled mint, then top with your whisked matcha. Garnish with a sprig of mint!
5. Mix and Enjoy! Serve with a straw and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Matcha Latte

• Wash Mint Thoroughly: Make sure to wash your mint extremely well! Take the effort to rub the leaves while washing to get rid of any dirt or small bugs. Since you’re muddling it, anything on the plant will go into your drink.
• Use the Mint Stems: Did you know most of the mint flavor actually comes from the stem? Make sure to crush the stem while you muddle to get all that minty aroma and flavor!

FAQ’s

Can I use mint extract?

Yes, you can use peppermint or spearmint extract instead of fresh mint. The extract is mint menthol, which gives it that refreshing, cooling sensation. However, one bottle of extract is equivalent to at least thousands of leaves, so you really only need 1 or 2 drops for the same flavor. Use a light hand!

Can I make this hot?

This mint matcha latte is great hot! You’ll muddle the mint and sugar the same way, but instead of adding cold milk, add hot milk and let the flavors infuse for 2 – 3 minutes. Then, you can remove the leaves and add it over your whisked matcha.

Other Matcha Recipes to Try

This vanilla mint matcha latte hits all your cravings for a refreshing, sweet matcha! And once you make it, you’ll feel like a barista! For more yummy beverages, here are some other matcha recipes to try next:

• Matcha Milkshake
• Peach Matcha Latte
• Yakult Matcha Latte
• Peach Jasmine Matcha Cloud
• Guava Matcha Latte