Matcha is having a moment and matcha lattes seem to be the drink of choice with coffee shops and matcha bars all offering their green-hued matcha goodness. Boasting many health benefits, like improved brain function and offering an earthy flavour profile, many are swapping out their morning coffee for a matcha latte. But amidst the fervour surrounding this powdered green tea, one question arises. Does a matcha latte have caffeine? 

The Essence of Matcha

Matcha is a traditional type of Japanese tea, that has a rich history dating back many centuries and is still used by Buddhist monks before meditation today. Matcha tea ceremonies are very important in Japanese culture, providing opportunities for connecting with others and are an expression of care and respect for tradition.

Made from finely grinding down green tea leaves, grown in the shade to enhance chlorophyll and amino acid production, matcha is distinguished from other green teas by its vibrant green colour and unique earthy flavour. 

Matcha is also classed within the superfood sphere due to its numerous health benefits that other beverages lack. This is due to its naturally occurring high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. In particular:   

• Antioxidants – Chlorophyll and polyphenols (known as catechins)
• Vitamins – Vitamin A and Vitamin C
• Amino Acids –  L-theanine

What is a Matcha Latte?

Unlike some may assume due to the name, a matcha latte isn’t the same as a traditional coffee latte, and doesn’t contain coffee. How it is simpler is its content of milk (dairy or non-dairy). A matcha latte is made by whisking matcha powder and hot water into a frothy paste, in which hot or cold milk is then added to create the matcha latte. Matcha lattes can be served hot or iced and are both deliciously refreshing drinks come rain or shine. 

Does a Matcha Latte Have Caffeine? 

Yes, matcha and therefore matcha lattes do contain caffeine just like green tea, but the amount per cup will depend on the type and quality of matcha used, which stems from the quality of the tea leaves and how they are prepared. 

A cup of green tea contains about 28 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup. However, matcha contains the actual tea leaves and therefore its caffeine levels are stronger, at approximately 30-70 milligrams per 8-ounce serving. This is slightly less than the amount of caffeine found in a cup of coffee (which can range from 95-200 milligrams depending on the strength), but will of course, depend on how much matcha you add to your matcha latte! A stronger matcha will contain more caffeine. 

If we compare this to a decaf coffee? A cup of decaf coffee will typically range from 2-15 milligrams of caffeine, which means in this case, a matcha latte would give you more of a buzz. 

Therefore, for those who want to switch up their beverages or perhaps want a caffeine buzz but aren’t fans of coffee, matcha lattes make for a great alternative. 

Does Matcha Cause a Caffeine Crash? 

You may be thinking that if a matcha latte contains a similar amount of caffeine as a coffee, will you also experience the same caffeine crash later in the day? The answer lies in understanding how the caffeine in matcha behaves differently compared to that in coffee. 

Matcha contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which works alongside the caffeine to provide a balanced and sustained energy boost, by helping the body absorb the caffeine more slowly. This powerful combination is thought to promote the alertness associated with caffeine, but without the jittery side effects many feel when consuming coffee. 

The Verdict

The answer to ‘Does a matcha latte have caffeine?’ is definitely a yes. Matcha lattes do contain caffeine due to the matcha powder used as the base of the drink.  However, the caffeine levels are moderate compared to a cup of coffee. The additional presence of L-theanine within matcha makes for a much smoother and more sustained energy boost without any sudden highs and energy crashes throughout the day, like many experience when consuming coffee. With the addition of other health benefits, it’s clear why matcha lattes are loved by so many. 

Therefore, whether you are already a matcha enthusiast or are trying it for the first time, rest assured that you will be sipping on a refreshing drink that will give you a gentle caffeine kick, has unique earthy flavours and is packed full of antioxidants and nutrients that other caffeinated drinks can’t compete with.

Matcha Lattes with Sweet Revolution 

At Sweet Revolution, we have a range of matcha latte blends ready for you to try at home or on the go. All with a touch of Madagascan vanilla, our dreamy matcha blends are the perfect coffee alternative that offers some slow-release caffeine whilst being packed with beneficial antioxidants, amino acids and more Vitamin C than other green teas. A true superhero among the teas, our concentrated latte mixes are made from the finest Matcha green tea powder, organically grown in Kagoshima, Japan. 

Both our Matcha Latte Barista Blends and Matcha Latte Instant Blends are made with unrefined coconut nectar for a touch of sweetness you just won’t be able to resist. A true cup of wellness, they’re created to nourish your body and feed your soul!

Check out all our superblend lattes here.