Is it okay to drink matcha with almond milk?

January 2, 2026 •

5 min read

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that contains up to 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. Given its potent nutritional profile, many people wonder: is it okay to drink matcha with almond milk? The good news is that this popular dairy-free combination is not only acceptable but also delicious and packed with numerous health benefits.

Quick Summary

This guide explains why drinking matcha with almond milk is a great choice for many, covering its flavor profile, nutritional advantages, and potential drawbacks. Discover how to prepare the perfect matcha latte, and learn about the differences between almond milk and other milk options, from taste to frothability. Get answers to all your questions about combining these two healthy ingredients.

Key Points

Compatibility and Flavor: The mild, nutty flavor of almond milk is highly compatible with the earthy taste of matcha, creating a smooth and palatable drink that is great for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Nutritional Benefits: The combination provides a host of nutrients, including matcha's potent antioxidants and L-theanine for calm energy, along with almond milk's vitamin E and fortification of calcium and vitamin D.
Healthier Milk Option: Almond milk is an excellent dairy-free, lactose-free alternative that is typically lower in calories than cow's milk, especially when choosing an unsweetened variety.
Nutrient Absorption: While studies on milk alternatives are ongoing, some experts recommend whisking matcha with water first before adding milk to ensure better absorption of catechins.
Making the Perfect Latte: For a smooth and creamy texture, sift the matcha powder and use a whisk to dissolve it in hot water before combining it with warm or cold almond milk.
Consider the Type of Almond Milk: Barista-style almond milk offers better frothing capability for lattes, while unsweetened almond milk is the healthiest option by avoiding added sugars.
Potential Drawbacks: Be mindful of additives and added sugars in commercial almond milk; always choose unsweetened versions to avoid unnecessary sugar intake.

Compatibility and Flavor Profile

From a flavor perspective, matcha and almond milk are highly compatible. The mild, slightly nutty flavor of almond milk complements the earthy, vegetal notes of matcha without overpowering them, creating a smooth and balanced latte. Unlike some other plant-based milks, unsweetened almond milk does not add significant sweetness, allowing the subtle umami and bitterness of high-quality matcha to shine through.

For those new to matcha's distinct taste, using almond milk can be a fantastic way to ease into it. The creaminess of the milk mellows the bitterness, making the experience more approachable and pleasant. The result is a creamy, comforting, and refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed both hot and iced.

Nutritional Benefits of Matcha with Almond Milk

Combining matcha with almond milk creates a drink with a diverse nutritional profile. Matcha is celebrated for its health benefits, and while some concerns exist regarding milk proteins potentially binding to catechins in dairy milk, almond milk presents a different case. Since almond milk lacks dairy's casein proteins, this is less of a concern, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of both components.

Benefits from Matcha:

High in antioxidants: Rich in catechins, particularly EGCG, which fight cell damage from free radicals.
Supports metabolism: The catechins, specifically EGCG, have been shown to have thermogenic properties, which can boost your metabolism and assist with weight management.
Boosts brain function: L-theanine, an amino acid in matcha, promotes a state of calm alertness and can enhance focus and memory.
Improves heart health: Catechins and polyphenols in matcha can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Rich in vitamins and minerals: A concentrated source of vitamins C, A, K, and B-complex, as well as minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Benefits from Almond Milk:

Excellent source of vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect against inflammation and supports skin and eye health.
Fortified with calcium and vitamin D: Many commercial brands are fortified to match the calcium and vitamin D content of dairy milk, which is crucial for bone health.
Lactose-free: Naturally free of lactose, making it an excellent choice for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.
Low in calories: Unsweetened almond milk is significantly lower in calories than dairy milk, making it a good option for those managing their weight.

Potential Drawbacks and How to Address Them

While a fantastic combination, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider when drinking matcha with almond milk. Knowing these and how to mitigate them can ensure you have the best possible experience.

Nutrient Absorption:

As with dairy, there is some inconclusive evidence on whether milk alternatives might affect the absorption of matcha's nutrients. Some research suggests that mixing milk with green tea may suppress certain metabolic benefits. To ensure maximum antioxidant absorption, some enthusiasts recommend whisking the matcha with water first, then adding warm almond milk.

Additives and Sugar Content:

Commercial almond milk brands can vary widely in their ingredients. Some contain added sugars, thickeners, and preservatives. Sweetened varieties can increase the sugar and carb count, negating some of the drink's health benefits, especially for those with diabetes or watching their sugar intake. To avoid this, always choose unsweetened, unflavored almond milk and read the label carefully.

Foam and Texture:

Regular almond milk does not contain the protein and fat necessary to produce the same creamy, stable foam as dairy or barista-style oat milk. This can result in a less frothy latte. For those who prefer a rich, foamy texture, opting for a "barista blend" almond milk is recommended, as these are formulated specifically for frothing.

How to Make a Delicious Almond Milk Matcha Latte

Making a perfect matcha latte is a simple process that requires just a few steps. Here is a basic recipe to follow for a smooth, creamy beverage.

Ingredients:

1-2 teaspoons high-quality matcha powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
2-3 tablespoons hot water (not boiling)
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
Optional: sweetener like maple syrup, agave, or honey to taste

Instructions:

Sift the matcha: Use a fine-mesh sieve to sift the matcha powder into a bowl to prevent clumps.
Make the paste: Add the hot water to the sifted matcha. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small hand whisk, whisk vigorously in a 'W' or 'M' motion until the powder is fully dissolved and a light froth forms.
Heat the almond milk: Gently heat the almond milk in a saucepan or use a frother until warm and frothy, but do not bring it to a boil.
Combine and sweeten: Pour the warmed almond milk into the matcha mixture. Add your desired sweetener and stir until combined. For an iced version, use cold almond milk and pour over ice.
Enjoy: Sip and savor your delicious, dairy-free matcha latte!

Comparison Table: Almond Milk vs. Oat Milk


Feature	Almond Milk (Unsweetened)	Oat Milk (Barista)
Taste	Mild, slightly nutty. Can be watery or enhance matcha depending on the brand.	Naturally sweet and creamy. Balances matcha's umami well.
Calories	Low (~30-60 calories per cup).	Higher than almond milk, but moderate (~120 calories per cup).
Protein	Low (~1g per cup).	Moderate (~2-3g per cup).
Nutrients	Often fortified with vitamin E, D, calcium.	Often fortified with vitamins B12, D, calcium.
Frothability	Underwhelming, unless barista-style blend.	Excellent, produces a creamy, stable foam.
Gut Health	Easy to digest for many, but low in fiber.	Contains beta-glucans, a fiber beneficial for heart and gut health.

Conclusion

Drinking matcha with almond milk is perfectly okay and a fantastic choice for those seeking a dairy-free, nutrient-rich, and delicious beverage. The subtle nutty flavor of almond milk complements matcha's earthy profile beautifully, creating a balanced and comforting latte. While regular almond milk offers a light, low-calorie option, using a barista-style blend can provide a creamier, more café-like experience. To maximize the health benefits, opt for unsweetened, fortified almond milk, and consider whisking the matcha with a small amount of water before adding the milk to ensure optimal absorption. For a comprehensive guide on matcha's nutritional impact, consult authoritative sources like those on Matcha.com. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, this plant-based pairing delivers a satisfying energy boost and a host of antioxidants and vitamins to support your well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Matcha is generally considered healthier than regular green tea because you consume the entire tea leaf, which provides a higher concentration of antioxidants and nutrients. Pairing it with unsweetened almond milk adds beneficial vitamin E and calcium without dairy, making it a healthy and satisfying beverage.

Unlike dairy milk, which contains casein proteins that may bind with matcha's antioxidants, there is less concern with almond milk. However, some people prefer to whisk the matcha with water first to ensure maximum nutrient absorption before adding the milk.

A matcha latte with almond milk has a balanced flavor profile. The mild, nutty, and slightly sweet notes of the almond milk complement the earthy, grassy, and umami flavors of the matcha, resulting in a smooth and creamy drink.

The calorie count for a matcha with almond milk depends on the specific brands and whether you add a sweetener. An unsweetened version is typically low in calories, with one cup potentially ranging from 50 to 80 calories.

Yes, you can use sweetened almond milk with matcha if you prefer a sweeter latte. However, for the healthiest option, unsweetened almond milk is recommended to avoid added sugars and allow the natural flavors of the matcha to come through.

Regular almond milk generally does not froth as well as dairy or other plant-based milks like oat milk. For a creamier, foamy top, a barista-style almond milk, which contains more emulsifiers and stabilizers, is a better choice.

Yes, absolutely. Almond milk is naturally lactose-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone with lactose intolerance who wants to enjoy a matcha latte without any digestive discomfort.