Creamy Matcha Latte with Cinnamon & Vanilla
Most mornings, I reach for matcha or jasmine green tea instead of coffee. I still enjoy coffee as an occasional treat-it has its own health benefits-but I’m a little sensitive to it first thing in the morning. It can make me feel a bit anxious or unsettled, whereas matcha gives a calm, steady energy boost that feels better for me.
This latte combines earthy matcha with creamy coconut and pistachio milk, a touch of vanilla, and warming cinnamon. It feels like a small ritual of self-care to start the day.
  
  
    
      - 3/4 cup heated water heated to 180 degrees F
- 3/4 tsp high-quality matcha powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (carton, not canned)
- 1/2 cup pistachio or almond milk
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 dash vanilla extract
- small squeeze honey (or maple syrup)
 
    
      - Heat the water to about 180°F (just steaming, not boiling) 
- In a small bowl or mug, froth the matcha powder with the hot water using a handheld frother until smooth and slightly foamy. 
- In a separate small pot or milk frother, warm the coconut + pistachio/almond milk with cinnamon, vanilla, and honey. Froth until creamy. 
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the frothed matcha and stir gently. 
- Enjoy slowly as a mindful morning ritual. 
Optional Add‑Ons & Swaps
- Add a pinch of cardamom for an extra warming spice.
- Skip the honey if you prefer it unsweetened, or swap for a tiny drizzle of pure maple syrup.
- Use all pistachio milk or almond milk if you don’t have coconut milk on hand.
Add a teaspoon of collagen peptides or plant-based protein powder for a more filling morning drink. 
   
  Why It’s Healing
- Matcha is rich in EGCG, a powerful antioxidant studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
 
- Coconut, pistachio, and almond milk provide healthy fats that help maintain steady energy and make this latte creamy without heavy dairy.
 
- Cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
 
- Honey offers a touch of natural sweetness and antimicrobial properties (but is optional if you want it sugar-free).
 
- Unlike coffee, matcha provides a gentle caffeine lift that tends to feel smoother and less anxiety-provoking.
 
Tip: Choose ceremonial-grade matcha for the smoothest flavor and highest antioxidant content.