If you love exploring unique and refreshing beverages, you are going to absolutely adore this Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced). It’s the perfect harmony of smooth, earthy matcha, naturally sweetened with real maple syrup, and just a pinch of salt to elevate every sip. Served over ice and optionally topped with luscious cold foam, this drink feels like a little luxury you can enjoy any time of day. Whether you’re looking to perk up your morning or cool down in the afternoon, this Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced) is a true crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavor and simple ingredients in the best possible way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this dreamy Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced), you’ll only need a handful of super simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in the taste, texture, and beautiful color that make this drink stand out.
- Whole milk: Provides a creamy base that balances the earthy matcha perfectly.
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with warm, complex notes that sugar just can’t match.
- Ceremonial-grade matcha powder: The star ingredient giving vibrant color and rich antioxidant-packed flavor.
- Hot water (not boiling): Used to dissolve the matcha smoothly without bitterness.
- Pinch of salt: A tiny touch that enhances the matcha’s depth and the syrup’s sweetness.
- Ice: Essential to serve this latte refreshingly cold and perfectly chilled.
- Optional heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk: For making irresistibly fluffy, sweet cold foam on top.
How to Make Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced)
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha Mixture
Start by sifting the ceremonial-grade matcha powder into a small bowl or cup to avoid any lumps. Add the hot water—make sure it’s warm but not boiling, as too much heat can bring out bitterness. Stir in the maple syrup and the pinch of salt, then whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk or milk frother until the mixture is smooth, vibrant, and completely dissolved. This step is crucial to getting a luscious, clump-free base for your latte.
Step 2: Assemble the Iced Latte
Fill a tall glass generously with ice to make sure your latte is wonderfully chilled. Pour in the whole milk first; this creates a gentle layering effect when you slowly add the matcha mixture. Then, pour the prepared matcha slowly over the milk—it’s so satisfying to see the beautiful green ribbons cascade through the creamy white base. Give it a gentle stir to combine all of those gorgeous flavors seamlessly.
Step 3: Make Optional Cold Foam
If you want to add a luxurious touch, whisk together heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk until you reach soft peaks. You can do this with a hand frother or a whisk—whipping it up just enough to be fluffy and pourable. Spoon or gently pour this sweet and creamy foam right on top of your iced latte for an indulgent finish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to sip.
How to Serve Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced)
Garnishes
To take your Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced) to the next level, consider a light dusting of matcha powder over the foam—this adds an elegant, earthy aroma with every sip. Alternatively, a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the foam can highlight the salted element and contrast beautifully with the sweet maple flavors. These small additions can transform your drink into a café-style creation.
Side Dishes
This latte partners wonderfully with light, subtly sweet treats. Think buttery almond biscotti, delicate shortbread cookies, or even a fresh fruit tart to complement the drink’s creamy texture and refreshing coolness. Because the latte has a balanced sweetness and earthy notes, pairing it with mildly sweet or nutty flavors really rounds out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve the Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced) in a clear glass to showcase those stunning layers of green and white. You can use a straw made of paper or stainless steel for an eco-friendly touch. For parties or special occasions, float edible flowers like pansies on the foam or serve it alongside a tiny pot of maple syrup for guests to add extra sweetness if they wish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover matcha mixture, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It’s best to prepare fresh milk and ice when ready to serve, as the ice can melt and dilute the drink if stored together. This way, you retain the vibrant flavor and crisp texture of your Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced).
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for the latte as a whole (since milk can separate and ice will melt), you can freeze small portions of the matcha syrup blend in ice cube trays. These matcha cubes can be a fun addition to future iced drinks, slowly infusing flavor as they melt.
Reheating
This iced delight is meant to be enjoyed cold and refreshing, so reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm version, it’s easiest to prepare a fresh hot matcha latte instead. The texture and vibrant flavor are at their best when served chilled with ice.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! Oat milk, almond milk, or even coconut milk work beautifully in the Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced). Each will add a slightly different flavor profile and creaminess, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combo.
How important is the quality of the matcha powder?
Using ceremonial-grade matcha powder makes a noticeable difference in both taste and color, giving that vibrant green hue and smooth, less bitter flavor. While culinary-grade can work in a pinch, the ceremonial-grade really brings out the best in this latte.
What does the pinch of salt do in the latte?
The salt enhances the earthiness of the matcha and deepens the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a more balanced and complex flavor. It’s a subtle ingredient that elevates the entire drink without making it taste salty.
Can I make this drink without cold foam?
Definitely! The Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced) is delicious on its own, and skipping the cold foam just makes it a lighter, more straightforward iced matcha drink. The foam is a lovely touch but totally optional.
How sweet should I make the latte?
Start with one tablespoon of maple syrup and adjust from there based on your personal taste. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—feel free to make it as sweet or subtle as you like.
Final Thoughts
Making and sipping this Salted Maple Matcha Latte (Iced) is like giving yourself a little moment of calm luxury any time of day. It’s simple, refreshingly delicious, and perfectly balanced with just the right touch of sweetness and saltiness. Whether you are a matcha devotee or just starting to explore, this recipe is a delightful way to treat yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love all over again.