What Is a Dirty Matcha? (Recipe + Caffeine)

What is a dirty matcha?

A dirty matcha (or dirty matcha latte) is a matcha latte with a shot of espresso poured over it. The "dirty" part refers to the dark espresso streaking through the green matcha and milk. You get the smooth, grassy sweetness of matcha plus the bold kick of coffee in one glass — perfect for people who can't decide between the two.

What does it taste like?

Creamy and green from the matcha, with a rich, roasted espresso finish. The coffee adds depth and a pleasant bitterness that balances the natural sweetness of good matcha. It's less sweet than a plain matcha latte and more complex than plain coffee.

How to make a dirty matcha (iced)

Ingredients

• 2g (about 1 teaspoon) ceremonial grade matcha
• 60ml hot water at 80°C
• 180ml milk (dairy or oat)
• 1 shot espresso (about 30ml)
• Ice, and sweetener to taste

Steps

1. Sift 2g matcha, add 60ml hot water (80°C), and whisk until smooth.

2. Fill a glass with ice, pour in the milk, then the matcha.

3. Pull a shot of espresso and pour it over the top.

4. Stir before drinking, or leave it layered for the "dirty" look.

Use a good matcha powder so the coffee doesn't overpower a thin, bitter matcha.

How much caffeine is in a dirty matcha?

More than either drink alone. A 2g serving of matcha has roughly 60–70mg of caffeine, and a single espresso shot adds about 60–80mg — so a dirty matcha lands around 120–150mg total. Keep that in mind if you're sensitive to caffeine. If you want the ritual without the buzz, hojicha is a low-caffeine alternative.

Variations

• Hot dirty matcha: warm milk, no ice.
• Extra dirty: two espresso shots.
• Vegan: oat or almond milk.

Prefer the classic first? See our matcha latte recipe.