My favourite mid-afternoon treat during the cooler months has got to be an oat milk matcha latte. There’s just something so satisfying about creamy, frothy matcha — not to mention the energy boost it gives me to get through the latter part of my work day as the sunlight is fading through the trees and my focus is shifting to things like dinner preparation and I wonder if the clothes out on the line are dry yet.
During the warmer months I stick to drinking my matcha with oat milk over ice — lightly sweetened with maple syrup — but when it’s cold I prefer it warm and frothy, sans-sweetener. I think as the oat milk is warmed and stirred through the powdery green tea it releases a sweetness that leaves additional sweetener completely unnecessary. Coconut milk is another beautiful plant-based option for pairing with matcha — especially if you can get your hands on some full fat coconut milk [no sweetener necessary!] but through it all, oat milk will always have my heart.
With that said — everyone is different. You might prefer your matcha latte with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar, and you might find it tastes better to you on almond or macadamia milk. It’s all a process of discovery and learning what suits your tastebuds best.
Oat milk matcha latte
MAKES 1 LATTE
1-3 tsp ceremonial grade matcha, depending on taste / strength preferences
1 cup oat milk
Step 1 — Scoop the matcha into a small bowl and add a splash of chilled oat milk. You can use warm oat milk or even room temperature water for this step if you prefer, just ensure it does not exceed 80ºC or you’ll burn the matcha.
Step 2 — Gently mix the matcha into the milk using a matcha whisk in small, circular motions. Utilise the sides of the bowl to break down the matcha completely. The goal here is zero lumps. Once the matcha is totally smooth, pour into your favourite mug.
Step 3 — Warm the oat milk to your preferred consistency by using a frothing machine, like the Nespresso Aeroccino or the Smeg Milk Frother, or if you have an espresso machine with a steam wand you can use that. Again, don’t exceed 80ºC or the milk will burn the matcha and it’ll taste awful. Pour the milk into your mug and enjoy!
