Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink

Name: Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled; 2 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup; 1 cup of cold milk (or plant-based milk); 1 teaspoon of matcha powder; Ice cubes; Strawberry slices; Matcha powder for dusting

Highlighted under: Express Kitchen

I love making refreshing drinks, especially during the warmer months, and my Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink is a favorite that never disappoints. The combination of earthy matcha and sweet strawberry creates a delightful balance that I can't resist. With a creamy texture and vibrant colors, this drink not only tastes incredible but also looks gorgeous in a glass. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect treat when I'm looking to impress guests or simply indulge myself on a sunny afternoon.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:25:36.441Z

When I first experimented with this Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink, I was looking for a way to blend my love for matcha with the bright sweetness of strawberries. By creating a strawberry purée, I was able to incorporate the fresh fruit flavor seamlessly. I recommend using ripe strawberries for the best taste, as they add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with matcha's slight bitterness.

Another fantastic tip I discovered is to layer the ingredients in the glass. Doing so not only enhances the visual appeal but allows the drinker to choose their own flavor balance as they sip. The layers create a beautiful ombre effect that always garners compliments at gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Drink
Refreshing combination of earthy matcha and sweet strawberries
Creamy texture that feels like a decadent treat
Perfect for hot days or as a vibrant addition to brunch

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink. The sweetness and natural juices from ripe strawberries elevate the taste and provide a vibrant color. Look for strawberries that are deep red, firm, and have a sweet aroma. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your puree.

When selecting milk, consider your dietary preferences or restrictions. Dairy milk lends a rich creaminess that complements the matcha, while plant-based options like almond or oat milk can add a unique flavor dimension. Keep in mind that different milk varieties can alter the texture slightly; for instance, full-fat coconut milk creates a luscious, creamy mouthfeel, whereas almond milk is lighter.

Perfecting Your Matcha Technique

Whisking the matcha properly is key to avoiding clumps and achieving a smooth texture. Use a fine mesh sieve to sift the matcha powder into the bowl before adding milk; this step can help break up any clumps. Use a traditional bamboo whisk, or a frother for convenience, and whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until the mixture is fully combined and you see a frothy layer on top. This not only improves the texture but also enhances the flavor.

If you're new to matcha, start with less powder and gradually increase to find your preferred strength. The matcha flavor can be quite strong, so adjusting the amount to your taste ensures that it complements the sweetness of the strawberries rather than overpowering it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra touch of elegance, consider serving your Iced Strawberry Matcha Cream Drink in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. You can even prepare it in a large pitcher for brunch gatherings, allowing guests to help themselves. A sprig of mint on top can add a fresh aroma and look appealing as garnish, enhancing the overall experience of your drink.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding a hint of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to the strawberry puree for an interesting twist. You can also experiment by substituting strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a new flavor profile while maintaining that vibrant color contrast.

Ingredients

For the Drink

1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled
2 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup
1 cup of cold milk (or plant-based milk)
1 teaspoon of matcha powder
Ice cubes

For Garnish

Strawberry slices
Matcha powder for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Puree

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries and honey. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Mix the Matcha

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with a splash of cold milk until fully dissolved.

Assemble the Drink

Fill two glasses with ice cubes, pour the strawberry puree halfway up each glass, then gently pour the matcha mixture on top. Finish with the remaining milk.

Garnish and Serve

Add strawberry slices on the rim of the glasses and a light dusting of matcha powder on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an elevated experience, blend in some vanilla extract to the milk for added flavor. You can also substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a different taste!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to prepare this drink ahead of time, you can make the strawberry puree and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld while saving you preparation time on the day you want to serve it. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly while sitting.

It's best to prepare the matcha fresh just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. However, if you have leftover matcha mixture, you can refrigerate it for a day. Make sure to re-whisk it with a bit of milk before adding it to the drink to restore the texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your strawberry puree is too thick, you can add a splash of cold water or additional honey to thin it out while blending. This will help achieve the right consistency for pouring into your glass without losing the delicious strawberry flavor. Conversely, if it's too thin, blending in a few more strawberries can help thicken it up.

Sometimes, the matcha can settle at the bottom of the glass if not properly mixed. To combat this, ensure you whisk the matcha thoroughly with the milk before combining it with the strawberry puree. Stir gently after pouring to create a beautiful marbled effect rather than letting the matcha sink.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this drink vegan?

Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk and substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.

→ How can I sweeten the drink more?

Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or syrup according to your taste preference, or add a bit of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can experiment with other fruits like mango or banana for a unique twist. Just adjust the sweetener based on the fruit's natural sugars.

→ Can I prepare this drink in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the strawberry puree and matcha mixture ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.