If you’ve ever wished you could combine the cozy comfort of hot cocoa with the energizing, earthy notes of matcha, you’re about to meet your new favorite drink: Matcha Cocoa. This Japanese-inspired fusion is rich, creamy, and utterly unique, blending the best of both worlds into a cup that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly morning or treating yourself to an afternoon pick-me-up, Matcha Cocoa is a delightful way to shake up your routine and savor a vibrant swirl of flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create Matcha Cocoa, but each one plays a starring role in the taste, texture, and color of your final cup. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each component essential for this luscious drink.
- Milk of choice: Use dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk for your favorite base—each lends its own character and creaminess.
- Matcha green tea powder: Go for culinary or ceremonial grade for a vibrant green hue and that signature grassy, umami depth.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Rich, dark cocoa brings bold chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
- Maple syrup or honey: Just a touch of natural sweetness balances the earthiness and rounds out the drink—adjust to your taste.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and aromatic complexity to every sip.
- Pinch of sea salt: Don’t skip this! It heightens the chocolate and matcha flavors, making the whole cup pop.
How to Make Matcha Cocoa
Step 1: Warm the Cocoa Base
Start by pouring your milk of choice into a small saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add in the cocoa powder, your preferred sweetener, vanilla extract, and a little pinch of sea salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and gently steaming. You want it fully combined and hot, but not boiling—about two to three minutes will do the trick.
Step 2: Prepare the Matcha
While the cocoa mixture warms, sift your matcha powder into a small bowl to break up any clumps and ensure a silky texture. Add about one tablespoon of hot (not boiling) water, then whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk or small hand whisk. The goal is to create a frothy, vivid green matcha shot that’s smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Combine and Froth
When your cocoa base is ready, remove it from the heat. Pour in the prepared matcha and whisk thoroughly to combine, creating a beautifully marbled drink. For an extra-creamy texture, use a milk frother or handheld blender to blend until slightly foamy. Pour your finished Matcha Cocoa into a favorite mug and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Matcha Cocoa
Garnishes
A gorgeous cup of Matcha Cocoa practically begs for a finishing touch! Try topping yours with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of extra matcha or cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate. Not only does this add visual flair, but it brings even more layers of flavor and fun to your drink.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs beautifully with light, not-too-sweet treats. Think buttery shortbread cookies, almond biscotti, or a slice of matcha pound cake. The earthy matcha and rich cocoa flavors play well with simple pastries, making your snack break feel like an elegant café experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve your Matcha Cocoa in a clear glass mug to show off its gorgeous green and brown swirls. Add a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of gold leaf or edible flowers for a touch of luxury. Or, for an iced version, chill the drink and pour over ice—top with a green matcha foam for a stunning layered effect!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Matcha Cocoa left over (though that’s rare!), simply let it cool, then transfer it to a covered jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Give it a good shake or stir before reheating or serving, as the matcha and cocoa may settle.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can actually freeze Matcha Cocoa! Pour leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze. These cubes are perfect for blending into smoothies or for dropping into your next glass of iced milk for an instant matcha-chocolate treat.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your Matcha Cocoa in a saucepan over low heat, whisking to recombine any separated ingredients. Avoid boiling, as this can affect both the flavor and the lovely frothiness. For a quick fix, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until just warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make Matcha Cocoa vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, and sweeten with maple syrup instead of honey. The result is just as creamy, flavorful, and comforting.
What’s the best type Drink
Both culinary and ceremonial grade matcha work beautifully in this recipe. Ceremonial grade offers a more vibrant color and delicate flavor, while culinary grade is a bit more robust and budget-friendly for everyday treats.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Definitely. Start with one teaspoon of sweetener and add more to taste. You can even experiment with agave or coconut sugar if that’s what you have on hand. Matcha Cocoa is super flexible!
Is it possible to make this iced?
Yes! Simply prepare your Matcha Cocoa as directed, chill it, and serve over ice. It’s incredibly refreshing on warm days and just as satisfying as the hot version.
How do I get my drink extra frothy?
A milk frother or handheld blender will give you the creamiest, foamiest results. If you don’t have one, vigorously whisking by hand will still create a lovely texture and blend the matcha and cocoa beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something cozy, energizing, and a little bit out of the ordinary, Matcha Cocoa is your perfect cup. This drink is easy to make and endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to play around and make it your own. Give it a try and discover just how irresistible this matcha-chocolate combo can be!
Print
Matcha Cocoa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soothing and delicious blend of matcha green tea and rich cocoa powder combined with your choice of milk and natural sweetener, creating a warm, creamy beverage perfect for cozy moments and a healthy twist on classic hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Milk Base
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, or soy)
Matcha Mixture
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (culinary or ceremonial grade)
Cocoa Mixture
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the Cocoa Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Prepare the Matcha: In a separate small bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove any clumps. Add 1 tablespoon of hot (not boiling) water and whisk vigorously with a bamboo whisk or small hand whisk until frothy and smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Remove the cocoa mixture from heat and stir in the prepared matcha. Whisk or froth until well combined and slightly foamy. Pour into a mug and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use a milk frother or handheld blender for an extra-creamy texture.
- For an iced version, chill the drink and serve over ice.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream or dust with extra matcha or cocoa powder for added flavor and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
