Method

Matcha Frappe Base

Dissolve matcha

Sift 2 tsp matcha powder into a small bowl or pitcher to remove lumps. Add 0.5 cup cold water and whisk briskly in an 'M' or 'W' motion (alternatively use a small handheld frother) until the matcha is fully dissolved and frothy, about 20–30 seconds.

Combine liquids and sweetener

In a blender, pour 1.5 cups almond milk (or whole milk), the prepared matcha mixture, 2 tbsp simple syrup (adjust to taste), and 0.5 tsp vanilla extract. Briefly pulse once or twice to combine.

Add ice and soft serve

Add 2 cups ice cubes and 1.5 cups vanilla soft serve to the blender. Secure the lid.

Blend to frappe consistency

Blend on high for 20–40 seconds, pulsing as needed, until the mixture is smooth and thick but still scoopable (a soft-serve-like texture). If too thin, add a few more ice cubes and blend briefly; if too thick, add up to 2 tbsp cold milk and pulse once.

Taste and adjust

Taste the frappe and adjust sweetness by adding up to 1 tbsp more simple syrup if desired. Pulse once to incorporate any adjustments.

Portion

Divide the frappe evenly between two tall glasses (about 12–14 oz glasses).

Assembly & Garnish

Top each glass with a generous swirl (about 2–3 tbsp) of vanilla soft serve so it has a soft-serve crown. If using whipped cream instead, pipe or dollop whipped cream on top.

Dust a light pinch (about 1/8–1/4 tsp) of extra matcha powder over the soft serve for color and extra matcha aroma.

Optional: Add 1–2 tbsp sweetened red bean (anko) either on top or layered between the frappe and soft serve. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed genmaicha (about 1 tsp) for a nutty finish.

Serve immediately with a wide straw and a long spoon to enjoy the frappe and soft serve together.

Matcha Soft Serve Frappe Recipe