Pin it A festive, refreshing iced matcha latte infused with creamy sugar-free white chocolate and a cool hint of peppermint, topped with a swirl of whipped cream and crushed sugar-free candy cane.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my household especially for those who want to enjoy festive flavors without sugar.
Ingredients
- Matcha Base: 2 teaspoons high-quality matcha powder, 1/4 cup hot water (not boiling, about 175°F/80°C)
- White Chocolate Mixture: 1/4 cup sugar-free white chocolate chips, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice), 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract, 1–2 tablespoons sugar-free sweetener (e.g. erythritol or monk fruit), to taste
- Assembly & Garnish: 1 cup ice cubes, 1/4 cup sugar-free whipped cream (optional), 2 tablespoons crushed sugar-free candy canes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the almond milk and sugar-free white chocolate chips. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and sweetener.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with hot water using a bamboo whisk or milk frother until smooth and frothy.
- Step 3:
- Fill two large glasses with ice cubes.
- Step 4:
- Pour the white chocolate mixture evenly over the ice in each glass.
- Step 5:
- Slowly pour the prepared matcha over the white chocolate layer to create a layered effect.
- Step 6:
- Top with sugar-free whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed sugar-free candy canes, if desired.
- Step 7:
- Stir before drinking and enjoy immediately.
Pin it My family especially enjoys this drink during the holiday season as a festive treat that even the kids love.
Preparation Tips
Use a bamboo whisk for best results when whisking matcha and hot water to create a nice frothy texture.
Variations
Try using coconut milk instead of almond for a different flavor profile or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra aroma.
Storage
This drink is best enjoyed immediately but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Pin it Enjoy this refreshing and creamy iced matcha any time you want a festive, sugar-free treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the matcha base?
Whisk 2 teaspoons of high-quality matcha powder with 1/4 cup hot water (about 175°F/80°C) until smooth and frothy using a bamboo whisk or milk frother.
- → What type of milk works best for melting the white chocolate?
Unsweetened almond milk is used here, but any milk of choice can work. For creamier texture, regular milk or half-and-half can be substituted.
- → How is the peppermint flavor incorporated?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract to the melted white chocolate and milk mixture infuses a cool, minty note to the drink.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, adjust sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit to taste when melting the white chocolate mixture.
- → What garnishes complement this beverage?
Top the drink with sugar-free whipped cream and sprinkle crushed sugar-free candy canes for a festive and refreshing finish.
- → Is this drink suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is sugar-free, vegetarian, gluten-free, and can be made vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and plant-based whipped topping.