Matcha, the finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has taken the world by storm. Originating in Japan, matcha is renowned for its vibrant green color, smooth umami flavor, and numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, particularly EGCg (epigallocatechin gallate), matcha has been linked to improved heart health, weight management, and even cancer prevention.
It‘s no surprise that Starbucks, the global coffee giant, has embraced the matcha trend, offering a range of delicious and creative matcha beverages. According to a recent market report, the global matcha market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2020 to 2027, reaching a valuation of $4.48 billion by 2027. Starbucks‘ incorporation of matcha into its menu has played a significant role in popularizing this healthy and flavorful ingredient among a wider audience.
Starbucks sources its matcha powder from the renowned tea-growing regions of Japan, ensuring a high-quality, premium product. The matcha undergoes a meticulous processing method, which involves shading the tea plants prior to harvesting, steaming, drying, and grinding the leaves into a fine powder. This process preserves the vibrant green color and nutrient content of the matcha, resulting in a superior taste and health profile compared to regular green tea.
Whether you‘re a die-hard matcha fan or just curious about this green tea powder, here are 11 must-try Starbucks matcha drinks that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
1. Matcha Green Tea Latte
The Matcha Green Tea Latte is a classic and the perfect introduction to Starbucks‘ matcha offerings. Made with premium matcha powder, steamed milk, and a touch of sugar, this latte offers a smooth and creamy texture with a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy, umami notes of the matcha. Available hot or iced, the Matcha Green Tea Latte is a year-round favorite that will transport you to the tranquil tea gardens of Japan with every sip.
Nutritional Information (Grande, 2% milk):
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 12g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Customization Options:
- Milk: Soy, almond, coconut, or oat milk for a dairy-free, plant-based alternative
- Sweetener: Adjust the level of sweetness by requesting less or more syrup
- Ice: Ask for light or extra ice to achieve your desired consistency
2. Iced Matcha Lemonade
For a refreshing twist on traditional matcha, try the Iced Matcha Lemonade. This invigorating beverage combines the earthy flavor of matcha with the tangy sweetness of lemonade, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will awaken your senses. The Iced Matcha Lemonade is an ideal choice for hot summer days when you crave a cool, thirst-quenching drink with a caffeine boost.
Nutritional Information (Grande):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sugar: 27g
- Protein: 0g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Expert Tip: Enjoy the Iced Matcha Lemonade as an afternoon pick-me-up, as the combination of matcha and lemonade provides a balanced energy boost without the jitters or crash associated with coffee.
3. Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino
If you‘re in the mood for a decadent treat, the Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino is a must-try. This blended beverage features matcha powder, milk, ice, and a touch of sweetness, resulting in a creamy and indulgent drink with a beautiful green hue. Topped with whipped cream, the Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino is a perfect dessert substitute that will satisfy your sweet tooth while providing the health benefits of matcha.
Nutritional Information (Grande, whole milk, whipped cream):
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Sugar: 54g
- Protein: 7g
- Caffeine: 70mg
Customization Options:
- Milk: Choose non-fat, soy, almond, coconut, or oat milk for a lighter or dairy-free option
- Whipped Cream: Ask for no whipped cream to reduce calories and fat content
- Syrup: Request less or more syrup to adjust the level of sweetness
4. Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink
For a tropical twist on matcha, try the Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink. This refreshing beverage combines matcha powder with sweet, juicy pineapple juice and coconut milk, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you to a sunny beach. While not available at all locations, the Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink is a must-try if you spot it on the menu.
Nutritional Information (Grande):
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 29g
- Protein: 1g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Customer Review: "The Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink is a game-changer! The combination of sweet pineapple and creamy coconut milk perfectly balances the earthy matcha flavor. It‘s like a tropical vacation in a cup!" – Sarah, Los Angeles
5. Matcha Pink Drink (Secret Menu)
The Matcha Pink Drink is a secret menu item that has gained popularity among Starbucks fans. To order this visually stunning beverage, ask for a Pink Drink (Strawberry Acai Refresher with coconut milk) and request a layer of matcha powder and coconut milk on the bottom or top of the drink. The result is a beautiful ombré effect with the vibrant pink of the Strawberry Acai Refresher and the deep green of the matcha. The flavors of strawberry, coconut, and matcha create a unique and delightful combination that will impress your taste buds and your Instagram followers.
Nutritional Information (Grande, estimated):
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 1g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Expert Tip: The Matcha Pink Drink is a great option for those who want to enjoy the health benefits of matcha but find the taste too bitter or earthy on its own. The sweetness of the Strawberry Acai Refresher and coconut milk helps to mellow out the matcha flavor, making it more approachable for newcomers to this green tea powder.
6. Matcha Americano
For a simple yet bold matcha experience, try the Matcha Americano. This drink consists of hot water and matcha powder, allowing the pure, unadulterated flavor of the green tea to shine through. You can customize your Matcha Americano by adding a splash of milk or a touch of honey to soften the intensity of the matcha. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate the authentic taste of matcha and want a quick, no-fuss caffeine fix.
Nutritional Information (Grande):
- Calories: 10
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Sustainability Spotlight: Starbucks is committed to sourcing its matcha powder from sustainable, eco-friendly farms in Japan. By supporting these farms, Starbucks helps to preserve traditional agricultural practices and promote biodiversity in the region.
7. Matcha Chai Latte
If you love the warm, spicy notes of chai and the earthy goodness of matcha, the Matcha Chai Latte is a match made in heaven. To order this off-menu drink, ask for a Matcha Green Tea Latte with chai syrup (one pump for a Tall, two for a Grande, and three for a Venti). The combination of matcha and chai creates a comforting, aromatic beverage that‘s perfect for chilly mornings or cozy afternoons.
Nutritional Information (Grande, 2% milk, 2 pumps chai syrup):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Sugar: 41g
- Protein: 12g
- Caffeine: 95mg
Expert Tip: The Matcha Chai Latte is an excellent choice for those who find the taste of matcha too grassy or bitter on its own. The warm, spicy notes of the chai syrup help to balance out the earthy matcha flavor, creating a more approachable and comforting beverage.
8. Iced Matcha Green Tea
Sometimes, simplicity is key. The Iced Matcha Green Tea is a straightforward yet delicious beverage that showcases the pure taste of matcha. Made with just matcha powder, water, and ice, this drink is perfect for those who want to enjoy the health benefits of matcha without any added flavors or sweeteners. You can customize your Iced Matcha Green Tea by requesting a splash of milk or a drizzle of honey for a touch of creaminess or sweetness.
Nutritional Information (Grande):
- Calories: 10
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Comparison: Compared to other popular coffee chains, Starbucks offers one of the most authentic and high-quality iced matcha green tea options. While some competitors use pre-sweetened matcha mixes or artificial flavors, Starbucks‘ Iced Matcha Green Tea features pure, unsweetened matcha powder, allowing customers to control the level of sweetness and enjoy the unadulterated taste of this premium ingredient.
9. Matcha Vanilla Bean Frappuccino (Secret Menu)
For a delightful fusion of flavors, try the secret menu Matcha Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. To order this drink, ask for a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with one or two scoops of matcha powder (depending on your preference). The result is a creamy, dreamy beverage with the sweet, aromatic notes of vanilla bean and the earthy goodness of matcha. Top it off with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information (Grande, whole milk, whipped cream, estimated):
- Calories: 430
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 57g
- Protein: 7g
- Caffeine: 70mg
Customer Review: "The Matcha Vanilla Bean Frappuccino is my go-to secret menu drink! The combination of sweet vanilla and earthy matcha is simply irresistible. It‘s like a matcha milkshake with a sophisticated twist." – Emily, New York City
10. Matcha Latte with Oat Milk
For a dairy-free, plant-based twist on the classic Matcha Green Tea Latte, try it with oat milk. Oat milk‘s creamy texture and subtle sweetness pair perfectly with the earthy notes of matcha, creating a smooth and satisfying beverage that‘s gentle on your stomach and the environment. Plus, oat milk is a great source of fiber and nutrients, making this matcha latte a nutritious choice for any time of day.
Nutritional Information (Grande, oat milk):
- Calories: 270
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Sugar: 27g
- Protein: 5g
- Caffeine: 80mg
Expert Tip: Oat milk is an excellent choice for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to reduce their dairy consumption. Its creamy consistency and naturally sweet flavor make it a perfect partner for matcha, without overpowering the delicate tea notes.
11. Matcha Almond Milk Frappuccino (Secret Menu)
If you‘re looking for a nutty, creamy matcha treat, the secret menu Matcha Almond Milk Frappuccino is a must-try. To order this drink, ask for a Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino made with almond milk instead of regular milk. The result is a delightful blend of matcha and almond flavors, with a slightly thicker texture due to the almond milk. This dairy-free, plant-based option is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to mix up their matcha routine.
Nutritional Information (Grande, almond milk, no whipped cream):
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 39g
- Protein: 2g
- Caffeine: 70mg
Personal Anecdote: As someone who loves the taste of matcha but is sensitive to dairy, the Matcha Almond Milk Frappuccino has been a game-changer for me. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of the almond milk complements the matcha perfectly, and I don‘t feel weighed down or bloated after enjoying this creamy treat. It‘s become my go-to afternoon indulgence, especially on hot summer days.
Conclusion
Starbucks‘ matcha drinks offer a delicious and healthful way to enjoy the unique flavor and benefits of this Japanese green tea powder. From classic lattes to refreshing lemonades and secret menu creations, there‘s a matcha drink for every palate and preference. Don‘t be afraid to customize your order with different milk options, syrups, or toppings to create your perfect matcha beverage.
As the demand for matcha continues to grow, Starbucks remains committed to sourcing high-quality, sustainably grown matcha powder from Japan. By supporting eco-friendly farming practices and traditional processing methods, Starbucks ensures that each cup of matcha delivers the authentic taste and health benefits that customers crave.
Next time you visit Starbucks, branch out from your usual order and try one of these 11 must-try matcha drinks. Share your favorite matcha creations or secret menu hacks in the comments below, and let‘s celebrate the wonderful world of matcha together!
