How to Make a Dirty Matcha Latte
A matcha latte with a shot of espresso pulled through it — the calm, steady lift of matcha plus a jolt of coffee.
- Serves
- 1 (10 oz)
- Time
- 4 min
- Skill
- Medium
- Gear
- Whisk + espresso machine
Ingredients
- 2 g matcha, sifted
- 30 ml hot water
- 180 ml steamed milk
- 1 espresso shot (18 g)
Method
- 1
Whisk the matcha with hot water into a smooth paste and pour into a cup.
- 2
Add steamed milk and stir.
- 3
Pull a single espresso shot and pour it slowly over the top so it streaks through the matcha.
Best results: Pour the espresso last and gently for that signature marbled 'dirty' look.
Why it works
A 'dirty' matcha is any matcha latte with a shot of espresso added — the espresso is what makes it 'dirty.' You get matcha's smooth, theanine-balanced lift plus coffee's quick kick, and the layered look comes from floating the espresso on top last so it marbles down through the green rather than mixing in.
Frequently asked
Why is it called a 'dirty' matcha?
The espresso shot 'dirties' the clean green matcha latte, both in color and flavor. Pour it last and gently for the signature marbled streaks.
How much caffeine is in a dirty matcha?
More than either drink alone — roughly the matcha's ~60 mg plus a single espresso's ~65 mg, so around 120–130 mg total. It's a stronger lift than a plain matcha latte.
Make it with Moksha
Organic, small-batch matcha — roasted fresh and shipped to your door.