How Much Matcha Should You Use in Your Drink? Get the Perfect Balance

Matcha lovers know that getting the right balance of matcha in your drink can be tricky—too little and you don’t get the full flavour, too much and it can be overpowering. So how do you achieve the perfect cup of matcha every time?

Whether you're brewing a traditional bowl of matcha or adding it to a latte, smoothie, or even baked goods, the amount of matcha powder you use makes all the difference. Let’s break it down and get your matcha game strong!

The Perfect Amount of Matcha for Every Drink

1. Traditional Matcha (Usucha)

If you’re going for the classic bowl of matcha, the traditional way to prepare it is with 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 2–4 grams) of matcha powder. This creates a smooth, vibrant drink that’s not too strong, but definitely delivers that signature matcha flavour.

Pro Tip: For a frothy matcha experience, use a bamboo whisk (chasen) to whisk the matcha with a bit of hot water in a bowl before adding more liquid. It’ll bring out the best flavours.

2. Matcha Latte

For a matcha latte, you'll want to use a bit more powder to create a rich, creamy drink that balances the milk. Aim for 1 to 1.5 teaspoons (about 2–3 grams) of matcha powder. The amount can be adjusted depending on how bold or subtle you like your latte.

Pro Tip: Sift your matcha before mixing it with water to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth texture. Adding a bit of honey or sweetener can also enhance the flavour.

3. Iced Matcha Latte

When making an iced matcha latte, you might need a little extra matcha to account for the dilution from ice. 1.5 teaspoons (about 3 grams) is usually just right. You can adjust based on your personal taste, but don’t be shy to bump up the amount if you want that vibrant green taste to shine through.

Pro Tip: Dissolve the matcha in a small amount of warm water first, then pour over ice and top with milk. This prevents clumping and gives you a smooth, refreshing treat.

4. Matcha Smoothie

For a matcha smoothie, the amount of matcha can vary depending on how many ingredients you’re blending in, but generally, 1 teaspoon (about 2 grams) is a good starting point. It’ll give you just the right matcha flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Pro Tip: Add matcha along with your favourite fruits, milk, and ice for a refreshing, energising smoothie. Bananas, berries, and even a dash of honey pair wonderfully with matcha.

Final Thoughts: Customise to Your Taste

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much matcha to use, but the general rule is to start with 1 teaspoon for lighter drinks and 1.5–2 teaspoons for a bolder matcha flavour. And remember—your taste buds are your best guide. Play around with the amounts until you find the perfect matcha-to-milk (or water) ratio that suits your taste.