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Starbucks Lavender Matcha Latte

There's something almost magical about the moment lavender and matcha meet in a cup, creating this Starbucks Lavender Matcha recipe that tastes like you've brought a spa day home with you. This vibrant drink combines the earthy, slightly grassy notes of matcha with the delicate floral sweetness of lavender, all balanced with creamy milk and a touch of honey.
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 teaspoons matcha powder high-quality culinary grade
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried culinary lavender buds
  • 8 ounces milk of choice whole milk, oat, almond, or coconut
  • 4 ounces hot water between 160-180 degrees Fahrenheit
  • 1 tablespoon honey or more to taste
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Matcha whisk or small wire whisk
  • Small bowl or matcha bowl
  • Milk frother or French press
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Small saucepan or kettle
  • 12-16 ounce cup or mug
  • Spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Pour 4 ounces of water into a small saucepan or kettle and heat it to 160-180 degrees Fahrenheit. Water that's too hot will cook the matcha and make it taste bitter instead of smooth and slightly sweet.
  2. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of dried lavender buds to your small bowl and pour the hot water over them. Let them steep for 1-2 minutes so the delicate floral flavors release into the water without becoming overpowering.
  3. Pour the lavender-infused water through a small strainer into a separate cup, leaving the buds behind. This removes any stray pieces and gives you a clean, aromatic liquid to work with for your matcha.
  4. Pour the 2 teaspoons of matcha powder into your small bowl and use a matcha whisk to break up any clumps. Sifting ensures a smooth, lump-free drink instead of gritty chunks that feel unpleasant on your tongue.
  5. Slowly pour the warm lavender water into the bowl with the matcha powder. Use your matcha whisk in a quick, back-and-forth motion (not circular) to whisk the matcha until it's completely dissolved and frothy, about 30-40 seconds.
  6. While the matcha whisks, heat your 8 ounces of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's steaming but not boiling. If you have a milk frother, you can use that instead for extra creaminess and a layer of microfoam on top.
  7. Pour the matcha mixture into your prepared 12-16 ounce cup and stir in the 1 tablespoon of honey plus the tiny pinch of salt. The honey dissolves better while the drink is still hot, and the salt enhances all the flavors you've built.
  8. Slowly pour the hot milk into the matcha mixture, stirring gently as you go. If you frothed the milk, pour the steamed milk first and top with the foam for that luxurious cafe-style finish.

Notes

Use a matcha whisk instead of a regular whisk or spoon for the smooth, frothy texture that makes this drink feel special. Don't use boiling water on the matcha as water above 180 degrees Fahrenheit will scald the powder and create a bitter taste. Invest in quality matcha powder with bright green color and a fresh, grassy smell. Add honey while the drink is still hot so it dissolves completely and distributes evenly.