Simple Strawberry Matcha Latte (Vegan)

A strawberry matcha latte is as pretty as it is delicious. With its vibrant pink and green layers, it is one of the most photogenic drinks you can make at home. In this post (and the full video tutorial), I’ll show you how to make the version that's completely vegan, made with oat milk, strawberries, pitaya powder for color, and ceremonial-grade matcha for that earthy green layer. The result is refreshing, full of antioxidants, and easy enough for anyone to prepare.

Origins of the Strawberry Matcha Latte

Layered drinks like the strawberry matcha latte are a modern twist on traditional Japanese matcha. As matcha cafés and bubble tea shops spread across Asia and North America, creative baristas began combining matcha with fruit bases to balance its earthy bitterness. Strawberry became a favourite pairing because its natural sweetness and bright flavour complement the depth of matcha, creating both harmony in taste and a striking layered look that has become a café trend worldwide.

Flavour Profile

• Strawberry puree: Sweet, fruity, lightly tangy.

• Pitaya powder: Adds colour and a subtle tropical note.

• Oat milk: Creamy, neutral, and vegan-friendly.

• Matcha layer: Earthy, grassy, slightly bitter with natural sweetness.

• Overall experience: Smooth, vibrant, refreshing, and packed with antioxidants.

Quick Facts

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Serves: 1 (about 350 ml or 12 oz)

• Taste: Fruity, creamy, earthy

• Keywords: Vegan matcha latte, strawberry matcha recipe, layered drinks

Ingredients

• 1 can strawberries (preferably organic, in light syrup)

• ¼ cup (52 g) sugar

• 1 flat tsp pitaya powder (for colour; optional)

• Oat milk (or other plant-based milk)

• 1 flat tsp matcha powder (ceremonial or drinking grade)

• 25 ml hot water (just under 2 tbsp)

• Crushed ice

Instructions

1. Make the matcha layer

   • Add 1 tsp matcha powder to a bowl.

   • Whisk with 25 ml hot water using a bamboo whisk until smooth and frothy.

   • Set aside.

2. Prepare the strawberry puree

   • Blend canned strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 tsp pitaya powder until smooth and vibrant red.

   • Store in a jar in the fridge (lasts up to 1 week) or freeze in ice cube trays for later use.

3. Assemble the drink

   • Add 60 ml strawberry puree to the bottom of a tall glass.

   • Fill the glass with crushed ice.

   • Pour in chilled oat milk.

   • Gently pour the whisked matcha on top for a layered effect.

4. Enjoy

   • Take your photos, then stir to combine the flavours.

   • Sip with a wide straw and enjoy the balance of sweet strawberries and earthy matcha.

Pro Tips

• Chill the strawberries and oat milk overnight for a colder, crisper drink.

• More sugar in the puree helps layers stay separated longer for photos.

• Pitaya powder is optional, but it enhances the pink colour beautifully.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh strawberries?

A: Yes, fresh or frozen strawberries work just as well. Canned strawberries are simply convenient and consistent.

Q: Do I need a bamboo whisk?

A: It helps aerate the matcha and dissolve clumps, but you can use a spoon or frother.

Q: What milk alternatives work best?

A: Oat milk creates the creamiest texture, but almond or soy also work.

Watch the Video

👉 Watch the full tutorial on YouTube

Related Recipes

• Thai Iced Tea – Street Food Style

• Dirty Thai Iced Tea

• Mango Milk Tea with Powder

This vegan strawberry matcha latte is the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and earthy matcha goodness. Try making it at home and let me know how it turned out in the comments. Don’t forget to like the video and subscribe to my channel for new drink recipes!