INTRODUCTION:
What if we told you that one of the most refreshing, Instagram-worthy, and unexpectedly delicious drinks from Starbucks isn’t a secret menu item anymore — it’s the Strawberry Matcha Latte?
A vibrant twist on your classic matcha latte, this layered drink combines the earthy, creamy flavor of matcha green tea with sweet strawberry puree and velvety milk. Whether you’re a matcha devotee or someone looking for a fruity, less-caffeinated summer sip, the Strawberry Matcha Latte from Starbucks is a bold flavor fusion you didn’t know you needed.
In this guide, we’re diving into what makes this drink so unique, how to recreate it at home, and why it’s become a must-have for iced coffee and tea lovers alike.
1. What Is the Strawberry Matcha Latte at Starbucks?
1.1 A Bold Fusion of Flavor
The Strawberry Matcha Latte is a layered iced beverage that blends:
- Sweet strawberry puree on the bottom
- Creamy milk in the center
- Whipped matcha on top
This flavor combination is bold, earthy, and slightly fruity — offering both visual appeal and taste complexity in one glass.
1.2 Matcha 101: Why It’s Different From Regular Green Tea
Matcha is not just trendy — it’s potent:
- Made from finely ground whole green tea leaves
- Packed with antioxidants (like EGCG)
- Gives a calm, focused energy due to L-theanine
Unlike regular green tea, matcha delivers a rich, grassy flavor, thicker texture, and steady caffeine release.
1.3 Why Strawberry Works So Well with Matcha
Strawberry adds:
- A natural sweetness that softens matcha’s bitterness
- A vibrant red hue that contrasts beautifully with green
- A fruity twist that turns this latte into dessert-like indulgence
It’s a combo that feels fresh, smooth, and satisfying — ideal for warmer months.
1.4 Where to Find It: On Menu or Secret?
While Starbucks doesn’t always feature this drink on its official menu, you can ask for it by customizing:
- Iced matcha latte
- Add strawberry purée
- Ask for layered style (purée at bottom, milk in center, matcha on top)
Baristas may recognize it from social media — it’s become a viral fan-favorite.
2. How to Make the Strawberry Matcha Latte at Home (Copycat Recipe)
2.1 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your DIY Starbucks Strawberry Matcha Latte, gather:
- 2 tablespoons strawberry purée (or mashed strawberries + sugar)
- ¾ cup milk (whole, oat, almond, or soy)
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- ¼ cup hot water
- Ice cubes
- Optional: sweetener (vanilla syrup, honey, or agave)
2.2 Step-by-Step Homemade Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp strawberry purée
- ¾ cup cold milk
- 1 tsp matcha green tea powder
- ¼ cup hot (not boiling) water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Start with the strawberry base
– Add strawberry purée to the bottom of a tall glass. - Add ice and pour in cold milk
– Fill the glass with ice, then pour in your milk of choice slowly for a layered effect. - Whisk the matcha
– In a separate bowl, whisk the matcha powder with hot water until fully dissolved and frothy. Use a bamboo whisk or frother. - Pour matcha over milk
– Gently pour the whisked matcha over the back of a spoon into the glass to float it above the milk layer. - Stir before sipping (or not!)
– Enjoy the layers visually, then stir and sip.
2.3 Matcha Whisking Tips
To make matcha smooth and lump-free:
- Use hot but not boiling water (160–170°F)
- Whisk in a “W” motion using a bamboo or electric whisk
- Sift matcha before mixing to remove clumps
The key to a perfect finish is a frothy, smooth green tea layer.
2.4 Flavor Variations You’ll Love
Customize your homemade version with:
- Strawberry Vanilla Matcha – Add vanilla syrup to milk
- Strawberry Coconut Matcha – Use coconut milk for a tropical twist
- Berry Matcha Mix – Blend strawberry with raspberry puree
- Iced Strawberry Matcha Mocha – Add a splash of chocolate syrup
These make every sip exciting and unique.
3. Nutritional Breakdown & Health Benefits
3.1 Starbucks Strawberry Matcha Latte Calories
A grande-sized version with whole milk (custom order) contains approximately:
- 200–250 calories
- 7g fat
- 28g carbohydrates
- 22g sugar
- 5g protein
- 70mg caffeine
Calories can vary based on milk type and added syrup.
3.2 Matcha’s Natural Benefits
Matcha isn’t just tasty — it’s packed with health benefits:
- Antioxidants: One of the highest sources per gram
- Calm energy: L-theanine promotes alertness without jitters
- Metabolism support: May aid fat burning and digestion
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Helps combat stress-related inflammation
Drinking matcha daily can be part of a healthy, energizing routine.
3.3 How to Make It Lower Calorie
To lighten the drink:
- Use unsweetened almond or oat milk
- Add sugar-free strawberry syrup or homemade purée
- Use just ½ tsp matcha for lower caffeine
- Skip added sweeteners
You’ll still get the vibrant look and flavor — with fewer calories.
3.4 Comparing Caffeine Levels
Caffeine content by size (Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte base):
- Tall (12 oz): ~55mg
- Grande (16 oz): ~80mg
- Venti (24 oz): ~110mg
That’s lower than a regular iced coffee, making it great for afternoon sipping.
4. When and How to Enjoy Your Strawberry Matcha Latte
4.1 Morning Kickoff
Start your day with calm energy:
- Less crash than coffee
- Smooth flavor to ease into your morning
- Light enough to pair with breakfast
It’s ideal for early risers who want a clean boost without feeling jittery.
4.2 Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
Instead of another sugary soda, try this:
- Refreshing and cooling
- Mild caffeine boost
- Naturally sweet and energizing
Perfect for post-lunch focus or outdoor breaks.
4.3 Paired With Light Treats
Enjoy with:
- Shortbread cookies
- Vanilla scones
- Matcha muffins
- Yogurt + granola
This drink elevates simple snacks to café-style indulgence.
4.4 Iced Aesthetic + Summer Vibe
It’s not just a drink—it’s an aesthetic:
- Layered green and pink in a clear cup
- Light, breezy, refreshing flavor
- Great for TikToks, Reels, or just romanticizing your day
Add a straw and some sunlight — you’re set.
5. Starbucks Hacks and Tips for Ordering the Perfect Strawberry Matcha Latte
5.1 How to Order Like a Pro
Here’s how to get the perfect drink at Starbucks:
- “Can I get an Iced Matcha Latte with strawberry purée at the bottom?”
- “Use oat milk, and make it layered, please.”
- “Add 1 pump vanilla syrup (optional).”
Clear, simple — and barista-friendly.
5.2 Making It Vegan or Dairy-Free
No dairy? No problem.
- Ask for oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk
- Starbucks strawberry puree is typically dairy-free
- Matcha powder is plant-based
A beautiful option for plant-based drinkers.
5.3 Making It Sweeter (Or Not)
Customize your sweetness:
- Add vanilla, agave, or classic syrup
- Or skip sweeteners and rely on the strawberry purée
- Ask for 1 or 2 pumps only to keep it balanced
This gives you control over sugar without losing flavor.
5.4 Storing or Prepping Ahead
Want to meal-prep your drink?
- Pre-make the strawberry and matcha layers separately
- Store in jars in the fridge
- Layer when ready and enjoy within 24 hours
It keeps the freshness and convenience.
CONCLUSION:
The Strawberry Matcha Latte at Starbucks is more than just a pretty drink — it’s a refreshing, creative take on the traditional matcha latte that brings sweet, earthy, and creamy flavors into perfect balance. Whether you grab it in-store or whip it up at home, it’s a seasonal favorite that always feels special.
From its Instagram-worthy layers to its calm caffeine kick, this drink delivers joy in every sip. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and surprisingly easy to make yourself.
