Matcha Cocoa Recipe
If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting treat that seamlessly blends the vivid, earthy flavor of green tea with the nostalgic coziness of hot chocolate, you have to try Matcha Cocoa. This indulgent beverage brings together matcha’s lively green hue and antioxidants with the rich depth of cocoa, all sweetened to your liking and finished with a touch of vanilla. It’s the kind of drink that turns any ordinary afternoon into a special moment, whether you’re cozying up with a book or inviting a friend to share a mug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple but purposeful ingredients make this Matcha Cocoa stand out. Each item has a starring role, coming together for that signature color, creamy texture, and harmonious balance of flavors. Let’s see what you’ll need—and why!
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): The creamy base that determines the drink’s richness; oat or whole milk brings the ultimate silky texture.
- Matcha green tea powder: The vibrant, grassy note and unmistakable green shade that sets this cocoa apart.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers chocolate depth and balances the slightly bitter matcha.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness, fully customizable to your taste, with a hint of floral or caramel undertones.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a gentle warmth and rounds out the layered flavors.
- Pinch of sea salt: A tiny addition that perfectly sharpens all the other tastes for a more complex sip.
How to Make Matcha Cocoa
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Pour your milk of choice into a small saucepan and set it over medium heat. Gently heat until it’s steaming and just on the edge of simmering, but don’t let it boil—this keeps the flavor delicate and the milk smooth. You’ll notice tiny bubbles along the edge, which is your cue to move on!
Step 2: Make the Matcha Cocoa Paste
In a small bowl, combine the matcha green tea powder and unsweetened cocoa powder. Add just about a tablespoon of the warmed milk, then whisk until it forms a silky, lump-free paste. This quick step ensures you avoid any pesky clumps and get a perfectly even Matcha Cocoa every time.
Step 3: Combine and Whisk
Pour the matcha-cocoa paste back into your saucepan with the remaining milk. Whisk thoroughly as the colors swirl into a deep, inviting hue. This stirring isn’t just practical—it’s fun to watch the two flavors combine in a swirl of green and chocolate.
Step 4: Sweeten and Season
Stir in your preferred sweetener, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Taste and adjust the sweetness—you get full creative control here. This is the moment when it all comes together into that signature Matcha Cocoa harmony.
Step 5: Froth and Serve
Keep whisking for another minute or two, until the mixture is hot and deliciously frothy. For extra foam (and a little café flair), use a handheld milk frother or carefully blend the finished drink. Pour into your favorite mug, inhale that cozy aroma, and enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Matcha Cocoa
Garnishes
Dressing up your Matcha Cocoa is half the fun! Try a cloud of whipped cream or airy milk foam on top, a dusting of extra matcha or cocoa, and maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate shavings for special occasions. These little touches take your mug from simple to sensational.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs perfectly with lightly sweet pastries and buttery cookies. Think matcha shortbread, almond biscotti, or a flaky croissant on the side. The earthy notes of Matcha Cocoa are great with treats that let you really appreciate the drink’s complexity without overwhelming your taste buds.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Matcha Cocoa in clear glass mugs to show off those gorgeous layers of green and brown. For gatherings, set up a DIY garnish bar with bowls of mini marshmallows, coconut flakes, or white chocolate chips—a conversation starter and an interactive treat for guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Matcha Cocoa left (though that’s rare!), let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually mingle and deepen a bit after a short rest.
Freezing
For longer storage, cool the Matcha Cocoa and pour it into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Pop a few into hot milk for an instant treat, or blend with milk for a chilly Matcha Cocoa frappe.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour the refrigerated drink into a saucepan and warm gently over low heat, whisking constantly so everything reincorporates. Avoid boiling to keep the milk smooth and the matcha fresh. Alternatively, a quick blitz in the microwave works in a pinch!
FAQs
Can I make Matcha Cocoa without a whisk?
Absolutely! You can use a fork or even shake the matcha and cocoa paste in a sealed jar with a splash of milk, though a small whisk or milk frother gives the best froth.
What’s the best type Beverage
Ceremonial grade matcha offers an especially vivid color and delicate taste, but culinary grade works well and is more budget-friendly. Always choose pure matcha powder with no added sugar for the cleanest flavor.
Can I make Matcha Cocoa vegan?
Definitely—just use your favorite non-dairy milk (oat and almond milk are especially delicious) and swap honey for maple syrup. The recipe remains just as creamy and luscious.
Is it possible to serve Matcha Cocoa iced?
Yes! Prepare the drink as directed, then let it cool and pour over a tall glass of ice. It’s refreshing, with the same signature layers of flavor—perfect for warmer days.
How can I make this extra indulgent?
Add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top. It turns Matcha Cocoa into a truly decadent dessert-in-a-mug experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about cozying up with a mug of Matcha Cocoa—it feels both playful and refined, and it’s so easy to make your own. Whether you’re new to matcha or a longtime fan, I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own signature treat!
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Matcha Cocoa Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of matcha and cocoa with this delightful beverage recipe. Perfect for cozy evenings or a midday treat, this Matcha Cocoa combines the earthy notes of matcha green tea with the deep richness of cocoa for a soothing drink that’s both decadent and wholesome.
Ingredients
Milk:
1 cup (dairy or non-dairy)
Matcha Green Tea Powder:
1 teaspoon
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder:
1 tablespoon
Honey or Maple Syrup:
1 to 2 teaspoons (to taste)
Vanilla Extract:
1/4 teaspoon
Sea Salt:
pinch
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling.
- Mix Matcha and Cocoa: In a separate bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and cocoa powder with a tablespoon of warm milk to create a smooth paste.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the paste back into the saucepan and whisk until fully combined. Stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Whisk Until Frothy: Continue whisking until the mixture is hot and frothy.
- Serve: Pour into a mug and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, use oat or whole milk.
- You can also blend the drink before serving to create extra foam.
- Adjust the sweetener to your taste, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
