Kate Walton
Craving a creamy, vibrant drink that’s both energizing and indulgent? This Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte is your perfect match. It’s a gorgeous swirl of earthy matcha, velvety milk, and a ribbon of caramelized brown sugar syrup, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of matcha powder. Every sip is a balance of toasty sweetness and green tea freshness — ideal for a mid-morning boost or a cozy afternoon treat.
What makes this drink extra special is how the brown sugar syrup deepens the natural umami notes of matcha, while the cream softens its slight bitterness. Whether you’re a longtime matcha lover or just getting curious, this iced latte will win you over.
What Kind of Matcha Should I Use?
For the best flavor, use ceremonial-grade or high-quality culinary-grade matcha. Ceremonial matcha offers a delicate, smooth taste perfect for sipping, while culinary-grade works well when paired with milk and syrups. Avoid lower-quality matcha, which can taste too bitter and dull the drink.
Ingredients for the Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte
- Matcha powder: The heart of the drink, bringing earthy, grassy notes and gorgeous color.
- Brown sugar: Creates the caramel-like syrup that sweetens and flavors the latte.
- Water: Used to whisk the matcha into a smooth mixture without clumps.
- Milk: Adds creaminess; oat, almond, or dairy milk all work beautifully.
- Ice: Essential for that chilled, refreshing finish.
- Whipped cream (optional): For an indulgent topping.
- Extra matcha powder or mint (optional): For garnish and an extra pop of green.
How To Make the Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte
Step 1: Make the Brown Sugar Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely and forms a glossy syrup. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Whisk the Matcha
In a bowl or cup, sift 1 teaspoon of matcha powder. Add 2 tablespoons of hot (but not boiling) water. Whisk briskly with a bamboo whisk or milk frother until smooth and frothy, with no lumps.
Step 3: Assemble the Latte
Fill a tall glass with ice. Drizzle the brown sugar syrup along the sides and bottom of the glass. Pour in 1 cup of cold milk (your choice of dairy or plant-based). Slowly add the whisked matcha over the milk to create beautiful layers.
Step 4: Top It Off
For extra indulgence, top with a swirl of whipped cream. Dust with a pinch of matcha powder or garnish with a fresh mint leaf for a café-worthy look.
Serving and Storing Your Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, right after making, when the layers are still distinct, and the ice is crisp. If you want to prep ahead, you can make the brown sugar syrup and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Assemble the drink just before serving to keep it vibrant and refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this latte vegan?
Just use plant-based milk like oat, almond, or soy, and skip the whipped cream or use a dairy-free version.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! Add more or less brown sugar syrup to taste. You can even swap in maple syrup for a different flavor.
Do I need a bamboo whisk?
A bamboo whisk is traditional, but you can use a milk frother or shake the matcha in a sealed jar. Just make sure it’s fully dissolved.
Can I serve it hot?
Yes! Simply skip the ice and heat the milk gently before pouring in the matcha and syrup.
What milk works best?
Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but oat milk has a lovely natural sweetness, and almond milk keeps it light.
Want More Drink Ideas?
If you’re loving this Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte, check out these other refreshing creations:
- Easy Oreo Cheesecake for a decadent dessert drink.
- Maple Donut Bars if you crave maple flavor in every bite.
- Kompot — a fruity homemade beverage from Eastern Europe.
- Air Fryer Caramelized Bananas to pair with your latte.
- Fresh Raspberry Cloud Mousse for a light, fluffy sweet treat.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest drink board so you can make it any time: My Pinterest – Kitchen By Kate
I’d love to hear how your latte turned out! Did you try it with oat milk or add extra toppings? Drop a comment and let’s swap ideas — questions welcome!
Iced Brown Sugar Matcha Latte
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
Description
A creamy, energizing iced latte blending earthy matcha, rich brown sugar syrup, and velvety milk, topped with whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon matcha powder
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons water (for syrup)
2 tablespoons hot water (for matcha)
1 cup cold milk (dairy or plant-based)
Ice cubes
Whipped cream (optional)
Extra matcha powder or mint (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan. Heat and stir until dissolved; let cool.
- Sift matcha powder into a bowl. Add hot (not boiling) water and whisk until smooth and frothy.
- Fill a tall glass with ice. Drizzle in the brown sugar syrup.
- Pour in the cold milk. Slowly pour the whisked matcha over the milk to create layers.
- Top with whipped cream and a dusting of matcha or mint if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
