Hello, Lykkers! Have you ever tried a matcha milkshake?

It's a delightful blend of creamy goodness and the unique, earthy flavor of matcha green tea.

A Brief History of Matcha

Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has a rich history. Originating in China, it was later popularized in Japan by Buddhist monks in the 12th century. Matcha is now a staple in Japanese tea ceremonies and has become a beloved ingredient worldwide due to its vibrant color and distinct flavor.

The Flavor Profile of Matcha

Matcha has a unique taste that combines a slight bitterness with a hint of sweetness. It's known for its umami flavor, which provides a rich, savory depth. When paired with the creamy texture of milk and the sweetness of vanilla ice cream, matcha creates a harmonious and refreshing milkshake.

Ingredients

To start, gather these ingredients:

1 cup of vanilla ice cream

1 cup of milk (any type you prefer)

1 tablespoon of matcha powder

1 tablespoon of honey or sweetener of choice

Ice cubes (optional)

Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

A pinch of vanilla extract (optional)

Steps to Make the Matcha Milkshake

1. Prepare the Blender: Begin by ensuring your blender is clean and ready to go.

2. Add the Ice Cream and Milk: Scoop one cup of vanilla ice cream into the blender. Then, pour in one cup of milk. This combination creates a creamy base for the milkshake.

3. Incorporate the Matcha Powder: Add one tablespoon of matcha powder to the blender. Matcha powder can be found in most grocery stores or online.

4. Sweeten the Mix: Pour in one tablespoon of honey. This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the earthy flavor of matcha. You can adjust the amount based on your preference or substitute it with another sweetener like agave syrup.

5. Blend It Up: Secure the blender lid and blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy. If you prefer a thicker shake, add a few ice cubes and blend again.

6. Add Vanilla Extract (Optional): For a hint of extra flavor, add a small pinch of vanilla extract and blend briefly.

7. Serve: Pour the matcha milkshake into a glass. For an extra treat, top with whipped cream and a light dusting of matcha powder.

Tips and Tricks

Chill Your Glass: For an even cooler experience, chill your serving glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring the milkshake.

Adjust Sweetness: Taste the milkshake before serving and add more sweetener if needed.

Experiment with Milk: Feel free to use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk alternative if you prefer.

Health Benefits of Matcha

Matcha is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help to combat free radicals in the body. Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness, and a moderate amount of caffeine that provides a gentle energy boost.

Enjoy Your Matcha Milkshake

Ready to indulge in this creamy, refreshing treat? Making a matcha milkshake at home is quick and easy and allows you to enjoy a cafe-quality drink without leaving your kitchen. Plus, you get to enjoy the health benefits of matcha in a delicious form.

Let's shake things up together! What's your favorite way to enjoy matcha?