A Closer Look at Your Green Go-To

Matcha lattes are beloved for their smooth, creamy texture and calming energy but how many calories are hiding in that gorgeous green cup? Whether you're sipping at home from a handcrafted chawan (茶碗, tea bowl) or ordering at your favorite café, the calorie count can vary widely based on how it’s made.


Calories in a Basic Matcha Latte

The core ingredients of a matcha latte are matcha powder, water, and milk plus optional sweeteners. Here’s a typical estimate for an 8 oz (240 ml) cup:

  • 2 tsp matcha powder: ~10 calories
  • 1 cup 2% milk: ~120 calories
  • 1 tbsp honey or syrup: ~60 calories (optional)

Total: Approximately 130–190 calories depending on milk and sweetener.

Ingredient Breakdown

The biggest calorie factors in your matcha latte come from the milk and sweeteners. Here's a comparison by milk type:

  • Whole milk (1 cup): ~150 calories
  • 2% milk: ~120 calories
  • Almond milk (unsweetened): ~30–40 calories
  • Oat milk (barista blend): ~120–150 calories
  • Coconut milk (canned): ~180 calories

Tip: Unsweetened plant-based milks can significantly reduce calories while keeping your latte creamy.

Brand Comparisons

Calories vary even more when ordering from a café. Here's how some major chains compare (for a 16 oz / grande size):

Brand Calories (Approx.) Sweetened?
Starbucks Matcha Latte (2% milk) 240 Yes
Dunkin’ Iced Matcha Latte (whole milk) 250 Yes
Homemade (oat milk, unsweetened) 90–130 No

Note: Many chain lattes use pre-sweetened matcha blends with added sugar and flavoring check the ingredient lists when available.

Nutrition Beyond Calories

Matcha isn’t just about energy and taste it also offers some unique benefits:

  • Caffeine: 25–35mg per serving (gentler than coffee)
  • L-theanine: Promotes calm focus
  • Antioxidants: High in catechins like EGCG
  • Fiber, vitamins, and chlorophyll: Especially in higher-grade matcha

Serving Size Matters

Just like coffee, matcha lattes range in size. Here’s how calorie count shifts by size (with 2% milk):

  • Small (8 oz): ~120–140 cal
  • Medium (12 oz): ~160–180 cal
  • Large (16 oz): ~220–250 cal

Lighten Up Your Latte: Tips for Fewer Calories

  • Choose unsweetened matcha and milk alternatives
  • Use ceremonial-grade matcha for more flavor with less sweetening
  • Skip the syrup or opt for a drizzle of honey or stevia
  • Froth milk well for creamy texture without extra fat

Final Takeaways

  • Calories in a matcha latte range from ~90 to 250 depending on milk, sweeteners, and serving size.
  • Pure matcha powder has very few calories it's the milk and sugar that add up.
  • Homemade lattes using plant-based milks and no sweetener are the lightest option.

Curious to elevate your matcha ritual? Explore artisan-made Japanese tea bowls, cups, and whisks to turn your daily drink into a cultural experience.

Handcrafted Matcha Bowl Handcrafted Matcha Bowl - Tea Ceremony | MyJapaneseWorld