Dirty matcha recipe: the perfect mix of matcha and espresso

There are some combinations that raise your eyebrows at first, but turn out so well that you wonder why no one thought of them before. Fries with a milkshake. Lime with watermelon. And now: dirty matcha – an unexpected hit of matcha and espresso.

Yes, you read that right. Green tea and coffee. In one glass. It may sound like an identity crisis in liquid form, but trust us: it's matcha made in heaven.

What is dirty matcha?

Dirty matcha is a trendy drink that consists of matcha (green tea powder) and a shot of espresso. Usually made with plant-based milk, and served in layers, so that you first see the soft green and then the dark swirl of espresso that slowly mixes.

The name 'dirty' comes from the espresso that makes the bright green matcha layer 'dirty', so to speak. But trust me: there is nothing dirty about it. On the contrary - this drink is as elegant as it is a nice change, and perfect for those who can't decide between zen and kickstart.

Let's go back: what is matcha again?

Matcha is a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea (where you steep the leaves in hot water), with matcha you drink the whole leaf. The result? A rich, umami-like taste, full of antioxidants, vitamins and a gentle caffeine boost.

In Japan, it has been consumed for centuries during tea ceremonies. Here in the West, matcha has gained a foothold mainly through trendy cafés and Instagram, where it is loved not only for its health benefits, but also for its iconic green color.

Why this combination works

You might think: matcha = zen, espresso = powerrr. Why together? Well, here's the beauty: where espresso hits fast and hard (hello, bouncy ball), matcha gives a calmer energy, thanks to the substance L-theanine . This ensures focus without the crash.

Together you get the best of both worlds: a soft, steady alertness with just enough punch. Like the peace of a morning walk with the power of a good playlist.

How to make your own dirty matcha

Fancy making a stylish dirty matcha at home? Good news: you don't need any barista skills, just a little bit of patience and preferably good ingredients.

Supplies:

• 1 tsp matcha powder (for example this organic Matcha top grade Miyako Tea )
• 60 ml hot water (not boiling, around 80°C)
  
• 200 ml plant-based milk (oat milk gives a creamy, slightly sweet flavour – soy works great too)
  
• 1 shot espresso (or strong coffee)
  
• Sweetener of choice (optional – e.g. maple syrup or agave syrup)
  
• A matcha whisk or a small whisk/milk frother
• (Ice cubes – if you want to make it iced!)

Preparation:

1. Mixing Matcha: Sift your matcha powder into a small bowl. Add the hot water and whisk with the bamboo whisk in a W-shape until frothy. No whisk? A small whisk or electric milk frother will do the trick.
   
2. Heat or froth milk: Heat the milk in a saucepan or steam it if you have a machine. Make iced? Use cold milk and ice cubes.
   
3. Filling the glass: First pour the milk into a nice glass. Then carefully pour the matcha in.
   
4. Add espresso: Now slowly add the espresso – that’s the “dirty” moment! The layers should mix a little.
   
5. Optional sweetening: Taste and add some sweetener if desired.

Just look at it, enjoy the colors, breathe in and then enjoy!

Also matcha and delicious 👉 Roppongi recipe: White chocolate matcha cheesecake

A little moment of happiness in a glass

What makes this dirty matcha so perfect for a Happlify moment? It’s a mindful drink. You have to take your time to make it, you consciously think about each layer. And then – once you’re sitting down with your warm (or cold) glass – it feels like a little gift to yourself!

Also fun to try

• Make it a dirty matcha latte with cinnamon or vanilla for an autumnal twist.
• Iced dirty matcha with caramel? Yes, it exists and it is every bit as decadent as it sounds.
• No espresso machine? Strong filter coffee or instant espresso works just fine.

💬 Tell me, have you tried dirty matcha yet? Let us know in the comments. We're curious to know how you create your perfect matcha moment!