Starbucks Matcha Latte Hack: Switch to Coconut Milk for Less Foam and Better Flavor

If you're a fan of the Starbucks Matcha Latte but find the foam excessive, there's a simple solution: switch to coconut milk. This plant-based alternative froths less than dairy, giving you more matcha with a smoother, richer flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Switch to Non-Dairy Milk for a Creamier Starbucks Matcha Latte with Less Foam and More Flavor

The Starbucks Matcha Latte is a popular choice for fans of the traditional Japanese beverage, combining the unique matcha tea powder with steamed milk to create a fragrant and subtly sweet drink. While it's a favorite for many, some have noticed that the foam on top can sometimes be excessive, leaving less liquid in the cup once it settles. Fortunately, an easy solution to get more matcha in your cup is to switch the regular dairy milk to a non-dairy alternative like almond, soy, or coconut milk, which froths less than dairy milk.

In Japan, frothed matcha is a tradition. It's whisked with a bamboo tool called a chain to create a delicate, creamy foam. This is due to saponin, a compound found in matcha known for its foaming properties. The foam created can be dense and long-lasting when combined with milk's high protein and fat content. Plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, has less protein and fat, which results in less foam and gives you more of the matcha drink itself.

Switching to coconut milk, in particular, reduces the foam and enhances the flavor profile. Coconut milk has an earthy, nutty taste that complements the vegetal notes of matcha, adding creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavors. Its smooth consistency makes it an excellent substitute for traditional creamers or milk, providing richness without excess foam.

Request Less Foam for a Smoother Starbucks Matcha Latte or Try Creative Matcha Recipes at Home

For those who prefer less foam on their Starbucks Matcha Latte, mentioning this preference to the barista is helpful when placing the order. By requesting less foam, they can add more milk or pour off the extra foam before serving, though keep in mind that more milk can slightly dilute the matcha flavor. For a home version, using a milk frother or heating plant-based milk on the stove allows you to control the amount of foam added to your drink.

Additionally, matcha powder can be versatile beyond lattes—think cookies, waffles, or even churros for a creative twist on this beloved tea.