Green Milk Tea Recipe

Heat water

Bring 12 oz (about 350 ml) of water to just below boiling, about 175–185°F (80–85°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring to a simmer and let sit 60 seconds to cool slightly.

Add 2 tsp green tea leaves (sencha or jasmine) to a teapot or heatproof pitcher. Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for 2–3 minutes for a clean, bright flavor. Avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness.

Strain the brewed tea through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof container. If using matcha powder for extra green color, whisk 0.5 tsp matcha with 1–2 tbsp of a small amount of the hot brewed tea until smooth and lump-free, then combine with the strained tea.

Allow the brewed tea to cool to room temperature (about 10–15 minutes) or place in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes until chilled. The tea should be cool before mixing with milk to avoid curdling and to make an iced drink.

While the tea cools, combine 3 oz whole milk, 1 oz half-and-half (or evaporated milk) and 0.5 oz sweetened condensed milk in a small pitcher or bowl. Whisk until smooth and homogeneous. The condensed milk both sweetens and adds body.

If you prefer a lighter drink, substitute additional whole milk or use low-fat milk and reduce condensed milk accordingly. Taste the milk mixture and adjust sweetness by adding up to an additional 0.5 tsp granulated sugar or 0.25 oz simple syrup if desired.

If using granulated sugar instead of condensed milk or in addition, dissolve 1 tsp granulated sugar into 1–2 tbsp of the warm portion of brewed tea (or use 1 tsp simple syrup). Stir until fully dissolved.

Add 1/8 tsp vanilla extract to the milk mixture if using, and whisk to incorporate. This is optional but rounds the flavor.

Fill a tall glass with 1 cup of ice cubes. Pour the cooled green tea over the ice, leaving room for milk (about 2–3 oz space).

Slowly pour the milk mixture over the tea. For a layered visual, pour gently over the back of a spoon. Stir before drinking if you want a uniform color and flavor.

If desired, lightly dust the top with 1/8 tsp powdered matcha for color and aroma. Serve immediately with a straw.