Gingerbread Matcha Latte

This iced gingerbread matcha latte combines earthy matcha, warm spices, and molasses for a creamy, festive drink even skeptics will love.

My love for matcha only deepens when I find another flavor I love to mix with it. And because of this recipe, I converted my matcha-skeptical sister.

What I've learned from experimenting with matcha over the years is that the key to making it approachable for skeptics is balancing its umami earthiness with complementary flavors rather than trying to mask it.

This gingerbread matcha latte works because warm spices actually enhance matcha's natural complex taste instead of fighting against it. The gingerbread spices create depth that bridges the gap between matcha's vegetal notes and the richness you expect from a holiday drink, while the darker sweetener adds molasses-like body that matcha pairs with surprisingly well.

The cold preparation method also matters. Frothing the spiced milk before adding it to the matcha creates better integration than just stirring everything together, and keeping it iced prevents the matcha from turning bitter the way heat can sometimes do.

My sister has always said no to matcha because she thinks it tastes too grassy. When she came over and saw me making this, she made a face and said she didn't want any. I convinced her to try just one sip, and she ended up finishing half my glass. She kept saying "wait, this actually tastes good" like she couldn't believe it herself.

Now she asks me to make it whenever she visits, and she's even tried making it at home a few times. Converting her to matcha through gingerbread spices feels like a personal win, because she was so convinced she'd never like it.

Ingredients

Matcha powder gives this gingerbread matcha latte that earthy flavor and bright green color. The matcha gets blended with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, which bring that cozy, festive gingerbread feel. Molasses adds rich, deep sweetness that pairs perfectly with all those spices, while cold milk makes it creamy and smooth. Whipped cream on top creates this velvety finish that complements the spicy-sweet matcha. I like adding a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top adds one more hit of warmth and makes it smell amazing.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

How to Make Gingerbread Matcha Latte?

If you're looking for a cozy, festive drink to enjoy during the colder months, this gingerbread matcha latte is the perfect choice. It combines the rich, earthy flavor of matcha with the warm, comforting spices of gingerbread, creating a unique and indulgent drink.

Prepare the Matcha Base

Start by combining the matcha latte powder and water in a small bowl. Stir well until the matcha powder is fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps. This forms the vibrant green matcha base for your drink. Once it's mixed, set it aside.

Froth the Spiced Milk Mixture

Next, take a separate small bowl or cup and add the milk, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Using an electric frother, froth the mixture for about 30-60 seconds, or until it's well combined and foamy. The frothing process helps incorporate the spices into the milk while creating a creamy texture.

Assemble the Drink

Fill a glass with ice, then pour the frothy milk mixture into the glass. This creates a cool, spiced base for your Gingerbread Matcha Latte.

Add the Matcha

Carefully pour the prepared matcha mixture into the glass with the spiced milk. You’ll notice the vibrant green matcha swirling through the milk, giving the drink a beautiful layered effect.

Top with Whipped Cream and Cinnamon

Finish your drink by topping it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. To enhance the gingerbread flavor, sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top. This final touch adds a fragrant spice that complements the matcha and molasses perfectly.

Serve and Enjoy

Your Gingerbread Matcha Latte is now ready to enjoy! Serve immediately and savor the festive flavors.

Other Drinks to Try

For a festive twist on your regular lattes, try pairing this gingerbread matcha latte with an iced raspberry matcha latte with coconut milk or a cozy gingerbread latte. Both are perfect for the colder months and bring a comforting blend of spices and flavors.

We're also fans of a good old Vanilla matcha latte, which is a much better deal to make at home than in a restaurant. If you want something creamy with a bit of a nutty profile, try another matcha like this matcha latte with pistachio spread. The combination of pistachio and matcha makes for a smooth, rich drink that complements the spices in the gingerbread matcha latte.

For a lighter option, opt for a vanilla lavender oat milk latte, which has a soft floral sweetness that balances the rich, spicy notes in the gingerbread matcha.