So you’re ready to enjoy delicious matcha at home, but you’re wondering: how much powder should I actually use? The amount of matcha you scoop is the secret to its flavor. Too little, and your tea will taste weak; too much, and it can be overwhelmingly bitter. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the perfect amount for everything from a traditional cup to a creamy latte. By the end, you’ll be making amazing matcha with confidence!
The Basics: Your First Cup of Matcha
The most common way to enjoy matcha at home is a style called “usucha” (thin tea). For one perfect serving of usucha, the magic number is 2 grams of matcha powder. If you have a traditional bamboo scoop (a chashaku), that’s about two heaping scoops. No worries if you don’t—it’s also about one level teaspoon.
Why 2 grams? This amount strikes the perfect balance between matcha’s rich, savory flavor (known as “umami”) and its pleasant, mild bitterness. Mix it with about 70 ml (2.4 oz) of hot water. Whisking this combo lets you taste the true flavor of the tea and creates that beautiful, creamy froth on top. If you’re new to matcha, this is the best place to start!
Usucha vs. Koicha: Two Ways to Enjoy Matcha
Besides the light and airy “usucha,” there’s a completely different style called “koicha” (thick tea). The main difference is the ratio of matcha to water. While usucha uses 2 grams of matcha with 70 ml of water, koicha is much bolder. It uses double the matcha—about 4 grams—and is mixed with only 40 ml (1.4 oz) of water.
Usucha is smooth, light, and perfect for everyday sipping. Koicha, on the other hand, has a thick, rich texture like warm melted chocolate and a deep, intense flavor. In Japanese tea ceremonies, koicha is served on very special occasions. The matcha used for it is typically a higher grade with almost no bitterness and an even richer umami taste.
The Perfect Matcha Latte Ratio
Love the matcha lattes from your favorite café? They’re incredibly easy to make at home! To make sure the matcha flavor stands out against the creamy milk, it’s a good idea to use a bit more powder than you would for regular tea. We recommend anywhere from 2 to 4 grams of matcha per latte.
First, dissolve the matcha powder in a small splash of hot water (about 30 ml or 1 oz). The key is to whisk it well with a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small milk frother until there are no lumps. Then, pour in about 150 ml (5 oz) of your favorite steamed milk. Feel free to adjust the amount of matcha to make it perfect for you—stronger and bolder or milder and sweeter!
No Bamboo Scoop? No Problem!
A traditional bamboo scoop (chashaku) is a wonderful part of the matcha ritual, but you don’t need one to get started. A regular teaspoon from your kitchen works perfectly! One level teaspoon is about 2 grams of matcha, which is exactly what you need for a standard cup of usucha.
A quick tip: matcha powder can cling to spoons because of static. Always use a completely dry spoon. After you scoop the powder, gently tap the spoon on the side of your container to level it off for a more accurate measurement. A teaspoon is a great starting point, and you can always get a chashaku later if you fall in love with the process!
Find Your Perfect Flavor
Think of these measurements as a starting point. The real fun of matcha is discovering your own personal preference! You might want a stronger, energizing cup in the morning, so you’ll add a little extra powder. For a relaxing afternoon treat, you might use a bit less. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Remember, the type of matcha you buy also changes the flavor. Some are known for their deep, savory notes, while others have a fresh, grassy aroma. Trying different kinds of matcha and finding the perfect amount for each one is all part of the wonderful journey into the world of matcha.
Why Measuring Matters So Much
Matcha is a delicate drink, and even a tiny change in the amount of powder can dramatically affect the taste. If you use too much, the bitterness can overpower the tea’s natural sweetness and savory notes. If you use too little, the flavor will be weak and unsatisfying.
Getting the measurement right is also the secret to creating beautiful, fine foam. The right powder-to-water ratio helps you whisk up a creamy froth that makes the tea feel smoother and brings out its delicate aroma. To get a delicious result every time, it’s best to start with the basics.
How Much Caffeine Is in Your Cup?
Yes, matcha contains caffeine! A typical cup of usucha (made with 2 grams of matcha) has about 60 to 70 milligrams of caffeine. That’s about the same as a cup of drip coffee, or sometimes slightly less.
What’s unique about matcha is that the caffeine works together with a natural amino acid called L-theanine. This amazing combination gives you a calm, focused energy without the jitters you can get from coffee. L-theanine promotes relaxation while caffeine provides alertness. Still, it’s always good to enjoy it in moderation—two to three cups per day is a great guideline.
How to Keep Your Matcha Fresh
Matcha is sensitive to just about everything: light, humidity, heat, and air. To protect its vibrant green color and amazing flavor, proper storage is key. Once you open your matcha, seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator.
When you take it out, let the container sit at room temperature for a few minutes before opening it. This little step prevents condensation from forming inside, which can make the powder clumpy. Following these simple rules will help you enjoy fresh, delicious matcha for much longer.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Cup Awaits!
The secret to a fantastic cup of matcha starts with the right measurement: 2 grams is the standard for usucha (thin tea), and 4 grams for the bold koicha (thick tea). For lattes, anything between 2 and 4 grams works beautifully. And remember, a simple teaspoon is all you need to get started.
Ultimately, these are just guidelines to help you begin your journey. The amount of matcha, the water temperature, and the way you whisk it all come together to create a unique experience in every single cup. We encourage you to play around, experiment, and discover your own perfect way to enjoy matcha.
