Matcha powder has become one of my go to’s lately! Not only for it’s unique green tea taste but also nutrient density.

Green tea and matcha powder come from the same Camellia Sinensis plant. The difference lies in the growth process as matcha is covered from direct sunlight for 20-30 days before harvest to increase its chlorophyll properties, boost amino acids, and generate a darker green hue. The stems and leaves are then removed and the matcha plant is ground into a fine powder. Because the entire leaf is used, matcha has a higher dose of caffeine and antioxidants than regular green tea.

The three different grades of matcha are ceremonial, premium, and culinary, and are intended for different uses.

Ceremonial grade comes from the first harvest of leaves and bodes a bright green hue. This grade is typically sweeter, more expensive, and is intended for drinking.

Premium grade comes from the second harvest of leaves and contains a more bitter taste so sweetener may be desired. Premium is generally more affordable as well.

Culinary grade comes from the 3rd harvest and is designed for baking and incorporating into cooked dishes. It has a much more bitter taste than ceremonial and is not designed to be enjoyed on its own, but rather incorporated into sweet or savory dishes.

Sometimes I’ll swap my coffee for a matcha-using either water or almond milk for the liquid. Other times I use the powder to make something tasty! Lately I’ve been experimenting with desserts! Here are a few of my favorites.

Iced Berry Matcha

This fun little take on a basic iced matcha includes a pop of color from the berry compote. You could use any berry, but I used mixed berries in this recipe.

2 Tsp Matcha Powder

1 Cup Almond, Coconut, or Regular Milk

1/2 Cup Hot Water

1 Tbsp Water

1 Tbsp Coconut Sugar

1 Cup Mixed Berries

Step 1: Make Compote. Mix 1 Tbsp water, sugar, and berries into a saucepan. Simmer until fruit is soft and you can smash. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix matcha powder into 1/2 cup hot water. You can mix with a matcha whisk or regular whisk. Set Aside.

Step 3: Place crushed ice in bottom of glass. Top with 1/2 strawberry mixture. Pour milk over strawberries. Top with matcha blend. Stir until combined.

Matcha Apple Nice Cream

4 Frozen Bananas

1/4 Cup Matcha Powder

1 Cup Frozen Apple Chunks

1/4 Cup Dairy Free White Chocolate

Step 1: Blend all ingredients but chocolate in a food processor until smooth. Once blended stir in white chocolate chips.