Sipping on an Easy Sakura Latte transports you to serene cherry blossom groves in Japan, where spring beckons with delicate pink hues and fragrant blossoms. This delightful drink marries the earthiness of premium matcha powder with the sweet floral notes of cherry blossom syrup. Each sip is a cozy hug in a glass, perfect for those moments when you crave something special yet uncomplicated. Making this beautiful latte at home not only impresses your family and friends but also delights your taste buds.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Sakura Latte
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Sakura Latte

I first stumbled upon sakura lattes during a visit to a quaint café in Tokyo. I was mesmerized by its exquisite pink and green layers and of course, the delicate flavor. Thinking about recreating that experience at home, I crafted an easy version that’s accessible to anyone, regardless of culinary prowess. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this delightful drink anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip up two servings in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet yet subtly floral taste of cherry blossoms perfectly complements the smooth matcha.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The gorgeous pink and green layers make it a stunning drink to showcase.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for breakfast, afternoon snack, or a party treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for vegan or dairy-free diets by using plant-based milk.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup milk (240 grams): Any milk works, whether it’s whole, skim, or plant-based. Almond or oat milk can be great alternatives, adding their unique flavors.
4 teaspoons cherry blossom syrup: This sweet syrup adds a floral note. You can often find it in Asian grocery stores or online, but consider making a homemade version too.
2 teaspoons matcha powder: Choose high-quality matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color. If you don’t have matcha, green tea powder is a decent substitute.
½ cup hot water: Ensure the water is around 170°F (80°C) for perfect mixing.
¼ cup cream (60 grams, optional): Optional for an indulgent touch, whipped cream adds richness that takes your latte to the next level. You can skip it if you prefer a lighter drink.

How to Make Easy Sakura Latte

Sift Matcha Powder: Begin by taking 2 teaspoons of matcha powder and placing it in a small bowl. Using a fine mesh sieve, sift it to eliminate any clumps. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture.

Whisk with Hot Water: Next, pour ¼ cup of hot water (around 170°F or 80°C) over the sifted matcha. With a bamboo whisk or an electric whisk, mix it vigorously until it becomes foamy and aerated. This creates that lovely froth we adore in a latte.

Combine with Remaining Water: After achieving that wonderful froth, pour in the remaining ¼ cup of hot water. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the matcha is fully integrated and has a beautiful green hue.

Prepare Sakura Milk: In a separate jug or bowl, pour 1 cup of your choice of milk and add 4 teaspoons of cherry blossom syrup. Mix well until the syrup is fully blended with the milk, creating a soft pink color that’s visually stunning.

Assemble Your Drink: Take two large serving glasses and fill them halfway with ice cubes. Then, pour the Sakura milk mixture into each glass, watching the beautiful pink color come to life.

Layer the Matcha: The final touch is to slowly pour the matcha tea on top of the Sakura milk. Take your time with this step—pouring too quickly will mix the colors, so go slow to create those eye-catching layers.

Optional Cream Topping: If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, top each glass with ¼ cup of cream for a rich finish. This adds a lovely creamy texture that compliments the flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store your sakura latte in the refrigerator for up to two days in an airtight container. However, be aware that the layered effect may dissipate over time. For the best flavor, consume it fresh. Reheat any chilled latte gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. The original texture may soften, but a quick whisk can bring some air back into it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to overheat the water when mixing the matcha; temperatures over 180°F (82°C) can lead to bitterness.
If you are using dairy alternatives, certain types foam better than others. Oat milk generally offers a rich foam, while almond milk creates a lighter texture.
To make your drink extra special, consider garnishing it with edible flowers or a sprinkle of extra matcha on top.
If you find matcha too strong, mix in a little more milk or syrup to balance the flavors to your liking.
Experiment with flavored syrups like vanilla or lavender to add a twist to the traditional taste.

The Easy Sakura Latte brings a touch of springtime magic to your cup, encapsulating floral beauty and vibrant green hues into a delightful sip. It encourages creativity, whether you stick to the classic recipe or swap in your favorite ingredients. Enjoy the experience of making—and sipping—this charming drink while sharing it with loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this latte vegan?

Absolutely! For a vegan version, simply replace dairy milk with your favorite plant-based alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk. Just make sure to pick a syrup that’s also free from animal products.

Where can I find cherry blossom syrup?

Cherry blossom syrup can usually be found in Asian grocery stores or can be ordered online. You can also experiment by making your own! There are several simple recipes available online using sugar, water, and cherry blossoms if you can get your hands on fresh or dried ones.

What if I can’t find matcha powder?

If you can’t find matcha powder or prefer to avoid it, you can substitute it with finely ground green tea powder, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ. You could also elevate another tea of your choice for a unique twist.

How long does this latte last?

This delicious latte is best enjoyed fresh; however, you may store any leftovers in the fridge for up to two days. The longer it sits, the more the beautiful layers may blend, but it’ll still taste delightful!

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Easy Sakura Latte

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Author: Jennifer
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Drinks
Method: Beverage Preparation
Cuisine: Japanese

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Description

This Easy Sakura Latte combines the delicious flavors of cherry blossom and matcha to create an irresistible drink. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare this delightful beverage that is perfect for tea lovers looking for a delightful homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup milk* (240 grams)
4 teaspoons cherry blossom syrup*
2 teaspoons matcha powder*
½ cup hot water
¼ cup cream, optional (60 grams)

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Instructions

Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl using a fine mesh sieve.
Pour ¼ cup of hot water (170℉ or 80°C) over the sifted matcha and whisk until foamy.
Add the remaining hot water to the matcha mixture and stir gently.
In a separate jug or bowl, mix the milk with the cherry blossom syrup until well combined.
Fill two large glasses halfway with ice cubes and pour the Sakura milk over the ice.
Carefully pour the matcha tea on top, taking your time to keep the layers distinct.
Optional: Top with a bit of cream before serving.

Notes

For a caffeine-free option, omit the matcha powder.
Adjust the amount of cherry blossom syrup to taste. More syrup will enhance the sweetness and floral flavor.
Serve immediately for the best taste and presentation.