Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Beverage Base
Matcha & Sweetener
Cream & Finish
Method
Beverage Base
- 1
Prepare blender and liquids
Chill a 16 oz serving glass in the freezer if desired. Add 1.5 cups of cold milk and 1.5 cups of ice cubes to a high-speed blender. Add 1/4 cup of cold brewed strong coffee or chilled water — the coffee adds depth and slight bitterness that balances the matcha; water keeps it lighter. These liquids form the frappe base.
Matcha & Sweetener
- 2
Whisk matcha into a small paste
Place 1.5 tsp matcha powder in a small bowl or cup. Add 2 tbsp simple syrup and 1 tsp vanilla syrup (if using). Using a small whisk or matcha whisk (chasen) or a fork, whisk vigorously to form a smooth paste with no lumps. This pre-dissolves the matcha and ensures even distribution in the frappe.
- 3
Combine and blend
Pour the matcha-syrup paste into the blender with the milk, ice, and coffee/water. Secure the lid and blend on high for 20–30 seconds until smooth and frothy. Stop and check texture — the frappe should be thick but pourable. If too thick, add up to 2 tbsp cold milk or water and pulse once more.
- 4
Taste and adjust sweetness
Taste a small spoonful. If you want it sweeter, add additional simple syrup 1/2 tsp at a time (up to 1 tbsp total extra) and pulse briefly to incorporate.
Cream & Finish
- 5
Prepare topping (optional)
If you want a whipped topping: in a small bowl, whip 2 tbsp heavy cream with 1 tsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form (about 30–45 seconds with a hand whisk or mixer). For a lighter option, simply pour cream directly as a float.
- 6
Assemble and garnish
Pour the blended matcha frappe into the chilled 16 oz glass, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace for topping. Spoon or float the whipped cream or 2 tbsp heavy cream on top. Lightly dust with a pinch of matcha powder. Insert a straw and serve immediately.