This Matcha White Russian is creamy, smooth, and a little fancy without being hard. It has coffee liqueur, vodka, cream, and earthy matcha. It tastes like a sweet iced latte with a grown-up twist.
Servings: 1 drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this drink when I wanted something cozy but cold. I love a classic White Russian, but matcha gives it a fun green tea flavor that feels fresh and special.
What I love most is how easy it is. You do not need a shaker. You do not need fancy tools. You just whisk the matcha, pour, and stir.
- It looks pretty with very little work.
- It tastes creamy, sweet, and smooth.
- The matcha balances the rich cream.
- It feels like a coffee shop drink and cocktail in one glass.
- It is easy to make one at a time.
What You’ll Need
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur
- 2 ounces heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or simple syrup
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Extra matcha powder, for dusting, optional
Tools Required
- Clear rocks glass
- Small bowl
- Small whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Spoon
- Small pitcher
- Round plate for serving
Pro Tips
- Sift the matcha if it has lumps. This makes the drink smooth.
- Use cold cream for the prettiest swirl.
- Pour the cream slowly over the ice so it floats a little.
- Start with 1 teaspoon syrup, then add more if you like it sweeter.
- Use good matcha because the flavor really stands out.
Why This Recipe Works Quick Science
Matcha has a light bitter taste. Cream has fat, which makes that bitterness softer. Coffee liqueur adds sweetness and deep coffee flavor. Vodka gives the drink body without changing the taste too much.
Hot water helps the matcha powder blend smoothly. If you add dry matcha right into cold cream, it can clump.
Matcha White Russian Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Make the Matcha Paste
Add 1 teaspoon matcha powder and 1 tablespoon hot water to a small bowl. Whisk until the matcha is smooth and there are no dry clumps.
Step 2: Fill the Glass With Ice
Add 1 cup ice cubes to a clear rocks glass. Place the glass on a round white plate so the finished drink has a nice holder.
Step 3: Add the Vodka and Coffee Liqueur
Pour 1 ounce vodka and 1 ounce coffee liqueur over the 1 cup ice cubes in the clear rocks glass.
Step 4: Mix the Matcha Cream
In a small pitcher, stir together the smooth matcha paste, 2 ounces heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup or simple syrup until pale green and creamy.
Step 5: Pour and Serve
Slowly pour the pale green matcha cream over the vodka, coffee liqueur, and ice. Dust with extra matcha powder if using. Serve right away.
Macros Information
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 285
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
Substitutions and Variations
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter drink.
- Use oat cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Use simple syrup instead of maple syrup.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for a softer flavor.
- Use decaf coffee liqueur if you want less caffeine.
Common Mistakes
- Do not add dry matcha straight to cold cream. It can get lumpy.
- Do not skip the hot water. It helps bloom the matcha.
- Do not over-sweeten at first. Taste, then add more syrup.
- Do not use warm cream. Cold cream gives the best texture.
- Do not stir too much after pouring if you want pretty layers.
What to Serve With
- Chocolate cookies
- Vanilla shortbread
- Cheesecake bites
- Almond biscotti
- A small bowl of salted nuts
Make Ahead Tips
You can whisk the matcha paste up to 1 day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge. Stir it before using.
Do not build the full drink ahead of time. The ice will melt and water it down.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best fresh. If you have extra matcha cream, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for 1 day. Shake or stir before using.
Do not store the finished drink with ice.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this without vodka?
A: Yes. Leave out the vodka and add a little more cream or cold milk.
Q: Can I make it sweeter?
A: Yes. Add another 1/2 teaspoon syrup at a time.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but it will taste thinner and less rich.
Q: Does this taste strong like matcha?
A: It has a clear matcha taste, but the cream and coffee liqueur make it smooth.
Q: Can I shake it instead of layering it?
A: Yes. Shake it with ice if you want it fully mixed and extra cold.
Final Thoughts
This Matcha White Russian is smooth, creamy, and easy to love. It is a fun little drink for matcha fans and coffee cocktail fans. Make it, sip it slowly, and leave a comment with how it turned out.
