How to Make Dirty Matcha Latte

If you love both coffee and matcha but it gets super hard to decide between them, then you’re in for a treat. A Dirty Matcha Latte is the perfect solution between espresso and green tea, bold and earthy yet creamy. We love this drink as it hits that perfect sweet spot between calm and kick, the kind that wakes you up gently yet confidently.

What Is A Dirty Matcha Latte?

A Dirty Matcha Latte is a smooth mix of matcha green tea and a shot (or two) of espresso; you get the sweetly mellow flavor of matcha and the roasted undertones of coffee.

We call it “dirty” because that espresso shot gives the matcha its signature brownish-green swirl as it’s not pure green anymore, but a beautifully messy mix of energy and calm.

Take it as matcha’s rebellious cousin who decided to hang out in a coffee shop for the afternoon.

Our barista recommends using ceremonial-grade matcha for a much better taste and a richer green color; trust us, it makes all the difference.

Why Is It Called Dirty Matcha?

It’s called “dirty” because we’re quite literally “dirtying up” the bright green matcha with dark espresso. The contrast is visual and flavorful along that bright green matcha, and deep brown coffee shot, creating a marbled effect that looks like art in a cup.

The name can sound funny, but there’s nothing messy about the taste because it’s silky, balanced, and energizing.

Is Dirty Matcha Healthy?

Yes, because a dirty matcha latte delivers the benefits of L-Theanine and caffeine. Matcha itself is oozing with L-theanine. L-theanine is known to enhance concentration and provide calm energy. Unlike regular coffee, it gives you a smoother caffeine ride without the crash.

Let’s take a look at what’s inside one homemade serving (about 12 oz):

So yes, you can sip this one guilt-free as it’s indulgent and good for you.

Our barista recommends skipping heavy syrups and using honey or vanilla extract if you prefer it light yet natural.

Dirty Matcha Latte vs Matcha Latte

The difference in a Dirty Matcha Latte and a Matcha Latte is: coffee. Because a matcha latte has only matcha, milk, and a sweetener that is smooth and pure, while the dirty version adds espresso for that kick of flavor of caffeine:

We love both, but if you’re someone who can’t function without coffee yet wants the calm focus of tea, the dirty matcha latte is your drink.

How to Make Dirty Matcha Latte

Making a dirty matcha latte at home is easier than you’d think, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is pure bliss:

Ingredients

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 2 tbsp hot water
• 1 shot espresso; 1 ounce
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp honey or vanilla syrup
• If making it iced, then Ice cubes

Instructions

1. First step is to whisk the matcha in a bowl and combine the matcha and hot water until smooth and frothy using a bamboo whisk or milk frother
2. Then brew your espresso by pulling a fresh shot or use instant espresso powder if needed
3. After that, warm it on the stove or froth it for a creamy texture
4. Then assemble: Pour the milk into a glass, add matcha. Slowly pour in the espresso, watch those gorgeous layers form!
5. Mix in honey or your favorite natural sweetener

Our barista suggests using oat milk as it complements coffee and matcha beautifully.

Dirty Matcha Latte Calories

Homemade versions are mostly a lot lighter than what you’d get in cafés, as our version (made with whole milk and one teaspoon of honey) clocks in around 130–150 calories per serving.

Let’s compare it with the Starbucks version:

Notice the difference? you’re saving calories and still keeping all that flavor intact. Plus, no mystery syrups or additives, only simple and clean ingredients.

Dirty Matcha Latte Caffeine

It is based on how strong your espresso and matcha are, as normally:

• 1 shot espresso = ~63 mg caffeine
• 1 tsp matcha = ~70 mg caffeine

This adds up to 30–140 mg of caffeine per serving. That’s almost as strong as a regular coffee, but it comes with a buzz of matcha’s L-theanine.

Our barista recommends using half-caf or decaf espresso if you want a late-night pick-me-up without staying up all night.

Barista Tips to Make Your Dirty Matcha Latte Special

Now, here’s where you can play around and make your dirty matcha latte your own.

Our Barista Recommends:

• Cold Brew Twist by replacing espresso with cold brew for a less acidic version
• Iced Dirty Matcha by making it over ice for a perfect summer sip
• Flavor Boost by adding a few drops of vanilla syrup for those dessert vibes
• For a thicker texture, go for half-and-half or coconut milk
• Presentation Tip: Pour espresso slowly over the matcha; you’ll have that stunning two-tone effect café drinks are famous for

And if you really want to go next level, then just dust a little matcha powder on top or drizzle caramel for a signature touch, as it’s café-style perfection that’s made right in your kitchen.

Final Sip

At the end of the day, making a Dirty Matcha Latte at home is about more than saving a few bucks, as it’s about creating your own coffee ritual. We love this because it feels calming and energizing yet comforting.

So, get your matcha whisk and make your morning a little greener and dirtier. When you make it at home, there’s no going back.

Our barista recommends it with almond biscotti or banana bread, as it’s the right balance of earthy and sweet.

Recommended for you:

Matcha Lavender Latte Recipe (with Homemade Lavender Syrup)

Starbucks Matcha Latte Recipe (Healthier Version with the Same great Taste)