I love trying fun coffee shop drinks at home, and strawberry matcha is one of my favorites. It combines sweet strawberries with smooth, earthy matcha to create a drink that is both refreshing and beautiful. The bright red strawberry layer and vibrant green matcha layer make it look impressive, but it’s actually very easy to make.
The first time I tried strawberry matcha, I was surprised by how well the flavors worked together. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the bold taste of the matcha, creating a drink that feels special without requiring a lot of ingredients. Whether I’m enjoying it on a warm afternoon or serving it to friends, this drink always feels like a treat.
If you’ve seen strawberry matcha all over social media and wanted to make it yourself, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make this popular drink at home, along with tips and simple variations to help you create the perfect cup every time.
What You Need to Make Strawberry Matcha at Home
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon ceremonial grade matcha powder
- 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling — around 175°F / 80°C)
- 1 cup milk of choice (oat milk, whole milk, or almond milk all work great)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup ice
Optional add-ins:
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or coconut cream (for a “strawberries and cream” version)
- Sparkling water (to replace part of the milk for a bubbly twist)
- A pinch of vanilla extract
How to Make Strawberry Matcha Step by Step
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Purée
Add the strawberries and 1 tablespoon of honey or simple syrup to a small blender or use an immersion blender. Blend until smooth. If using frozen strawberries, let them thaw for 5 minutes first. Taste and add more sweetener if needed. Set aside.
Tip: Strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve if you want a super smooth, café-style result. Skip this step if you like a bit of texture.
Step 2: Whisk the Matcha
Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl or mug. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water (not boiling — boiling water makes matcha bitter). Whisk in a quick “W” or “M” motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and slightly frothy. A bamboo whisk (chasen) works best, but a small regular whisk or milk frother works too.
Tip: Ceremonial grade matcha dissolves more easily and has a smoother, less bitter flavor than culinary grade. It is worth the upgrade for drinks like this.
Step 3: Build the Layers
Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour the strawberry purée over the ice first — this becomes the beautiful pink base layer. Slowly pour the milk over the back of a spoon to create a clean middle layer. Finally, gently pour the whisked matcha over the top.
Tip: Pouring slowly is the key to those gorgeous, distinct layers. The drink will naturally mix as you stir, but the layered look is what makes it so eye-catching.
Step 4: Stir and Enjoy
Give the drink a gentle stir before sipping to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Serve immediately.
Strawberry Matcha Variations to Try
| Variation | What to Change |
|---|---|
| Strawberries & Cream | Add 2 tbsp heavy cream or coconut cream on top |
| Sparkling Strawberry Matcha | Replace milk with sparkling water for a fizzy version |
| Frozen Strawberry Matcha Frappe | Blend everything with extra ice for a thick, frosty drink |
| Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte | Use frothed oat milk for a creamier, café-style result |
| Strawberry Matcha Smoothie | Add a banana and blend for a thicker, meal-worthy version |
Tips for the Best Strawberry Matcha Every Time
Use quality matcha. The matcha is the star of this drink. Ceremonial grade matcha has a naturally sweeter, more complex flavor. Culinary grade works in a pinch but can taste more bitter.
Do not use boiling water. Water that is too hot will “cook” the matcha and make it taste harsh. Aim for water around 175°F (80°C) — or just let boiling water sit for 2–3 minutes before using.
Fresh strawberries taste best. When strawberries are in season, the purée is naturally sweeter and more vibrant. Out of season, frozen strawberries are a great alternative — they are picked at peak ripeness and work perfectly here.
Adjust sweetness to your taste. The amount of sweetener depends on how sweet your strawberries are and your personal preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
Make a big batch of strawberry purée. The purée keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days. Having it ready makes assembling this drink even faster on busy mornings.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1 drink made with oat milk and 1 tablespoon honey):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~130 |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Caffeine | ~35mg |
Note: Values are estimates and will vary based on the milk and sweetener used.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Matcha
What does strawberry matcha taste like?
It tastes earthy and slightly grassy from the matcha, with a bright, sweet, fruity flavor from the strawberries. The two flavors balance each other out really well — the strawberry softens the bitterness of the matcha.
Can strawberry matcha be made dairy-free?
Absolutely. Oat milk is the most popular dairy-free option because it is naturally creamy and slightly sweet. Almond milk and coconut milk also work great.
Is strawberry matcha healthy?
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly a compound called EGCG, which has been linked to various health benefits. Strawberries add vitamin C and natural fiber. The overall healthiness of the drink depends on how much sweetener is added.
Can the strawberry purée be made ahead of time?
Yes — the purée keeps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it easy to assemble the drink quickly throughout the week.
Conclusion
Strawberry matcha is more than just a pretty drink — it is genuinely delicious, easy to make at home, and endlessly customizable. Whether the goal is to recreate a café favorite, impress guests, or just treat yourself to something special on a weekday morning, this recipe delivers every time.
Here are the next steps to get started:
- Pick up ceremonial grade matcha and a fresh carton of strawberries
- Make a batch of strawberry purée and store it in the fridge
- Whisk up the matcha, build those gorgeous layers, and enjoy
- Try one of the variations — the sparkling version and the frozen frappe are especially worth making
Once the first glass is made at home, the café version will never feel quite as necessary again.
