How to make Homemade Ube Matcha Latte ウベ抹茶ラテ

What if you could enjoy a drink that looks like a work of art and tastes just as amazing? The Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ) brings together two vibrant flavors—purple ube and green matcha—in one glass. At first, the idea of mixing a sweet yam and earthy tea might sound unusual. But when you take that first sip, you’ll realize how perfectly they complement each other.

This colorful latte has become a favorite in modern cafés, and the best part is, you don’t need to leave home to enjoy it. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make a café-style Ube Matcha Latte right in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

Overview

The Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ) is a beautiful layered drink that combines creamy purple ube milk with frothy green matcha tea. It’s eye-catching, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to make.

• Time needed: About 10–15 minutes.
• Difficulty level: Easy, beginner-friendly.
• Why make it: It blends Filipino and Japanese flavors while offering antioxidants, fiber, and natural energy.

Ube Matcha Latte ウベ抹茶ラテ @JapanDishes

Essential Ingredients

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to prepare your homemade Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ):

• 2 cups milk: The creamy base. Whole milk makes it rich, while almond, oat, or soy milk works for a dairy-free version.
• 1 tablespoon ube powder or ¼ teaspoon ube extract: This gives the latte its purple color and sweet, nutty taste.
• 2 teaspoons honey: Natural sweetener that blends well. Alternatives include maple syrup or agave.
• 2 teaspoons ceremonial-grade matcha powder: High-quality matcha ensures a smooth flavor and vibrant green color.
• 4 tablespoons hot water (about 170°F/80°C): Needed for whisking the matcha properly.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap honey with coconut sugar for a richer sweetness.
• Use coconut milk instead of dairy for a tropical version of the Ube Matcha Latte.
• Add vanilla extract to the ube milk for extra depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ube Milk

1. Froth 2 cups of milk with a frother until light and foamy.
2. Stir in honey and ube powder (or extract) until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Matcha

1. Heat water to 170°F (80°C).
2. Sift 2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a small cup.
3. Add hot water and whisk with a bamboo whisk or frother until creamy and frothy.

Step 3: Assemble the Latte

1. Pour the ube milk mixture into a glass, filling it about three-quarters full.
2. Add ice cubes if you want it chilled.
3. Slowly pour the matcha mixture over the back of a spoon, allowing layers to form.

Secrets to Success and Expert Tips

• Always sift the matcha to avoid clumps.
• Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the best taste and color.
• Don’t overdo the ube extract—a little goes a long way.
• For clear layers, pour slowly and use a transparent glass.

Assembly and Presentation

The presentation of the Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ) is just as important as the flavor. Use a tall glass to show off the striking purple and green layers.

• Sprinkle extra matcha on top for a café-style finish.
• Add whipped cream for a dessert-like version.
• Drizzle with condensed milk for added sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Ube milk: Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake well before using.
• Matcha: Always prepare fresh for best flavor.
• Assembled latte: Best enjoyed immediately, while the foam and colors are still vibrant.

Recipe Variations

Looking to try something new? Here are creative twists on the Ube Matcha Latte:

• Iced Ube Matcha Latte: Add more ice for a refreshing summer drink.
• Hot Ube Matcha Latte: Skip the ice and enjoy warm on a cold day.
• Ube Vanilla Latte: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the milk mixture.
• Ube Coconut Matcha Latte: Replace milk with coconut milk for a tropical kick.
• Dessert-style Latte: Top with whipped cream and crushed cookies.

If you love colorful matcha drinks, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Matcha Latte Starbucks Recipe. It’s another layered latte that combines fruity sweetness with earthy matcha for a refreshing café-style treat.

Conclusion

The Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ) is more than a trendy café drink—it’s a creative blend of flavors and cultures. With only a handful of ingredients, you can make this beautiful drink at home in under 15 minutes.

Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, layered or stirred, this latte gives you the freedom to experiment. Once you try it, you’ll see why the Ube Matcha Latte has become so popular worldwide.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make Ube Matcha Latte without ube powder?
You can substitute taro powder, but the flavor will differ.

Q2: Is Ube Matcha Latte healthy?
Yes. Ube is high in fiber and antioxidants, while matcha provides natural caffeine and calming amino acids.

Q3: Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Just use oat, almond, or coconut milk and swap honey for agave or maple syrup.

Q4: Why does my matcha clump?
Always sift matcha before whisking to ensure a smooth latte.

Q5: Can I prepare Ube Matcha Latte in advance?
You can make the ube milk ahead, but prepare matcha fresh for the best flavor and froth.

Q6: Should I drink it hot or iced?
Both are great! Hot is creamy and cozy, while iced is refreshing and layered.

The Ube Matcha Latte (ウベ抹茶ラテ) isn’t just a drink—it’s part of a larger wave of cultural fusion that celebrates both Filipino and Japanese traditions. Japan itself is a place where modern trends and traditional flavors meet in creative ways. If you’re curious about how Japanese culture blends with global influences, check out this article on Ed Sheeran and Tokyo’s Oedo Metro Art Collaboration for another example of art and culture coming together in surprising ways.