If you’re a fan of warm, cozy drinks with a kick of caffeine and spice, the chai matcha latte might just be your new go-to favorite. This unique blend brings together two bold flavors—earthy, umami-rich matcha and sweet, spiced chai—for a comforting yet energizing experience. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this fusion latte is more than just a trend. It’s a flavorful way to enjoy the best of both worlds in one mug.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes this drink special, how to make it, and why it might just be your next daily ritual.
Table of Contents
The Chai Matcha Latte That Changed Everything
My First Sip of Chai Matcha Magic
The first time I tried a chai matcha latte, I didn’t expect much. I was standing in line at a little café outside Austin—one of those places that takes pride in pouring every cup like it’s art. I was torn between my usual spiced chai and a grassy green matcha when the barista said, “Why not both?” Skeptical but curious, I took the suggestion. One sip in, and I was hooked. It had everything I loved—warm spices, earthy depth, and a gentle caffeine lift that didn’t leave me jittery.
That cup reminded me of home. Growing up in San Antonio, chai was my mom’s way of showing love—steeping cinnamon and cloves on the stove while prepping her food truck orders. Years later, matcha became my recharge after long shifts in construction and trucking. Blending the two felt like a reunion of comfort and clarity. That first chai matcha latte didn’t just taste good—it felt right.
Why Chai and Matcha Are a Perfect Pair
So what makes this unlikely duo work? Chai is bold and spiced with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Matcha, on the other hand, brings an earthy bitterness with a touch of sweetness. When combined in a chai matcha latte, these two create a drink that’s both grounding and uplifting. You get the familiar comfort of chai with the focused calm of matcha—all in one sip.
This combo isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile. You can enjoy it hot on cold mornings or iced for a refreshing twist. It’s also easy to customize, from the milk you use to your choice of sweetener.
Whether you’re a seasoned matcha drinker or just love a good chai, the chai matcha latte is a drink that brings the best of both into your cup. And if you haven’t tried it yet, trust me—it’s time.
Flavor Harmony – Blending Chai & Matcha
Do Chai and Matcha Go Together?
Absolutely—and better than you’d expect. On paper, chai and matcha might seem like opposites. One’s a spiced black tea blend bursting with flavor; the other, a powdered green tea known for its earthy subtlety. But when blended correctly, they balance each other in a way that’s almost addictive.
Here’s why this combo works:
- Chai delivers warmth from spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
- Matcha offers an earthy, grassy tone with a touch of bitterness.
- When combined in a chai matcha latte, the bold spices mellow the matcha’s intensity, while matcha smooths out chai’s heat with creamy undertones.
You get both stimulation and comfort in one sip. No wonder cafés like Starbucks and independent shops alike now offer chai matcha lattes as seasonal favorites.
Finding the Right Balance of Spices and Umami
Getting the balance right is what separates a perfect chai matcha latte from a muddy mess. The goal is to layer, not overpower. Here’s a quick look at how they complement each other:
| Component | Flavor Role |
|---|---|
| Chai | Spiced warmth, sweetness |
| Matcha | Earthiness, depth, a light bitterness |
| Milk (dairy or plant-based) | Creaminess to bridge both flavors |
Wellness in a Cup – Is Chai Matcha Latte Healthy?
The Benefits of Matcha and Chai Spices
One of the biggest questions people ask is whether the chai matcha latte is actually good for you—and the answer is yes, when made right. This drink isn’t just a pretty swirl of green and tan. It’s packed with functional ingredients that support energy, focus, and even digestion.
Here’s what you’re getting in every cup:
- Matcha – Loaded with antioxidants, especially catechins like EGCG. Known for promoting calm alertness thanks to L-theanine.
- Chai spices – Cinnamon and ginger are anti-inflammatory, cardamom aids digestion, and cloves offer antimicrobial properties.
- Black tea (in chai) – Contains moderate caffeine and more polyphenols that support heart health.
- Plant-based milk (optional) – Oat, almond, or cashew milk can make this dairy-free and easier on digestion.
Together in a chai matcha latte, these ingredients create a functional beverage that’s more than just flavorful—it’s energizing without being harsh.
Low-Sugar, Dairy-Free, and Antioxidant-Friendly Options
The health factor really comes down to what you put in. Store-bought versions can be loaded with sugar, but making it at home gives you full control.
Here are a few easy ways to keep your chai matcha latte clean and beneficial:
- Use unsweetened milk like almond, oat, or cashew.
- Skip syrups and sweeten with honey or maple syrup in small amounts.
- Use ceremonial grade matcha for maximum nutrients.
- Brew your own chai using spices instead of sugary mixes.
For a cleaner base, our dairy-free matcha latte recipe is a great starting point. Like that drink, a chai matcha latte feels indulgent—but can actually support your health, one sip at a time
How to Make a Chai Matcha Latte
Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need
Creating a creamy, café-style chai matcha latte at home takes just a few core ingredients. Whether you want it hot or iced, the process is simple—and fully customizable to your taste.
You’ll need the following:
- Matcha powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
- Chai tea or concentrate (homemade or store-bought)
- Milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based like oat, almond, or cashew)
- Maple syrup, honey, or another natural sweetener (optional)
- Hot water
- Ice (for iced version)
Tools can include:
- A matcha whisk or frother
- Saucepan or milk steamer
- Mug or tall glass
- Fine mesh strainer (for sifting matcha)
No matcha whisk? No problem—you can still make a frothy latte. Check out how to make matcha latte without a whisk for easy alternatives using kitchen tools you already own.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Hot and Iced Versions
Here’s how to pull together the perfect chai matcha latte every time.
Hot Version:
- Brew the chai and set aside.
- Heat your milk until steamy (don’t let it boil).
- Sift the matcha into a bowl and whisk with a small amount of hot water until smooth and frothy.
- In a mug, combine the chai, whisked matcha, and steamed milk.
- Stir in sweetener if desired and top with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Iced Version:
- Brew your chai and cool it in advance.
- Whisk the matcha with cool or lukewarm water until frothy.
- Fill a glass with ice, pour in the chai, matcha, and cold milk.
- Add sweetener if needed and give it a gentle stir.
Want more matcha ideas? Try our iced matcha coconut latte or keep things simple with the dairy-free matcha latte recipe. Once you’ve mastered your homemade chai matcha latte, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Customize It Your Way
Add-Ins, Milk Options, and Sweeteners
The beauty of a chai matcha latte is how flexible it is. Once you’ve got the base down, you can tailor it to your mood, dietary needs, or even the season. Whether you’re going for cozy or refreshing, there’s plenty of room to make it your own.
Here are some of the most popular ways to level up your latte:
- Milk upgrades: Oat milk adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Almond milk keeps things light, while coconut milk brings tropical richness.
- Natural sweeteners: Maple syrup, honey, agave, or even a date syrup give you variety without refined sugar. You can also skip sweetener altogether if your chai is already strong and flavorful.
- Flavor boosters: A drop of vanilla extract, a pinch of turmeric, or a little nutmeg can deepen the flavor. For something extra cozy, try a dusting of cinnamon or cardamom on top.
- Superfood add-ins: Want an even more functional drink? Add a scoop of collagen peptides, a few drops of ashwagandha tincture, or a spoonful of MCT oil for added wellness support.
You can also experiment with temperature. Serve your chai matcha latte iced with cold foam for summer, or blend it into a frothy warm version during cooler months.
Turning Your Latte Into a Ritual
This drink isn’t just about flavor—it’s about slowing down. Taking a few minutes each morning to whisk, steep, and sip is a great way to ground yourself before the day takes off.
Try pairing your chai matcha latte with a moment of stillness—write in your journal, step outside, or simply breathe deeply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do matcha and chai go together?
Yes—they’re a surprisingly good match. Chai is warm, spicy, and bold, while matcha is earthy and smooth. When blended into a chai matcha latte, the flavors complement each other rather than clash. The result is a cozy yet energizing drink that’s both soothing and stimulating.
Is matcha chai latte healthy?
It can be. A homemade chai matcha latte made with quality matcha, real spices, and unsweetened plant-based milk is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Skip sugary syrups and you’ve got a drink that supports energy, focus, and digestion—all in one mug.
What’s the difference between a chai latte and a matcha latte?
A chai latte is made from black tea brewed with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, then mixed with milk. A matcha latte uses powdered green tea whisked with hot water, then topped with milk. A chai matcha latte blends both—giving you spice and earthiness in one cup.
Are matcha lattes actually good for you?
Yes—especially if you use real matcha. Matcha is rich in catechins (a type of antioxidant) and contains L-theanine, which promotes calm focus without the crash of coffee. In a chai matcha latte, you get all that plus the digestive benefits of chai spices.
Conclusion: A Cup That Does It All
The chai matcha latte isn’t just a drink—it’s a small ritual that brings comfort and clarity in one. With bold chai spices and the grounded calm of matcha, this fusion creates something greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a cozy way to energize your morning or wind down your afternoon, all while giving your body something it can feel good about.
You can enjoy it hot or iced, sweet or unsweetened, creamy or light. Once you find your favorite variation, it’ll quickly become part of your daily rhythm. So the next time you’re looking for something flavorful, functional, and deeply satisfying, reach for a chai matcha latte—and make it your own.
Print
Chai Matcha Latte: A Bold, Healthy Twist on Your Favorite Latte
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy and energizing chai matcha latte made with almond milk, matcha powder, and chai syrup. Enjoy it iced or hot for a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- ½ cup almond milk
- Ice cubes
- 1–2 tbsp chai syrup
Instructions
1. Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to remove clumps.
2. Add ½ cup hot (not boiling) water to the matcha and whisk until frothy and smooth.
3. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
4. Add 1–2 tablespoons of chai syrup over the ice.
5. Pour in the whisked matcha, then top with almond milk.
6. Stir gently and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use ceremonial grade matcha for best results.
- You can swap almond milk with any plant-based or dairy milk of your choice.
- To enjoy this latte hot, skip the ice and warm the milk before combining.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: chai matcha latte, iced matcha chai, matcha drink
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