Unlocking the Secret Menu: How to Order a Nutritious Matcha at Starbucks

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Looking for a way to satisfy your caffeine cravings while still following a healthy lifestyle? Look no further than Starbucks’ menu, as they offer a variety of options for those wanting to incorporate matcha into their daily routine. But with all the added syrups and sugars, it can be challenging to know how to order a truly healthy matcha at Starbucks. Fear not, as in this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your own delicious and nutritious matcha beverage at the popular coffee chain. From customizations to ingredient swaps, get ready to discover how to order a healthy matcha at Starbucks!

Matcha has gained popularity in recent years as a healthy alternative to traditional coffee and tea drinks. While many people enjoy sipping on matcha at home, sometimes busy schedules or the need for a quick pick-me-up lead us to places like Starbucks. However, with the array of sugary and high-calorie options available at Starbucks, it can be difficult to order a matcha beverage that aligns with your health goals. In this guide, we will discuss how to order a healthy matcha drink at Starbucks. So next time you find yourself in line at this popular coffee chain, you can confidently make a nutritious and refreshing choice.

The Benefits of Matcha:

Before diving into the specifics of how to order a healthy matcha drink at Starbucks, let’s take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of this beloved green powder. Matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves and contains high levels of antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants have been linked to improved heart health, weight loss support, and even cancer prevention.

Furthermore, matcha contains caffeine, which can increase alertness and improve cognitive function without the typical jitters associated with coffee consumption. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects on the mind and body.

Choosing Your Matcha Base:

The first step in ordering a healthy matcha drink at Starbucks is selecting your base. Starbucks offers three base options for their matcha drinks: matcha powder, green tea blend powder, and iced shaken black tea (with added matcha powder). When it comes to choosing the best option for your health, opt for the plain matcha powder. The other two options contain added sugars and calories that you want to avoid.

If you’re looking for an iced drink option, ask for an unsweetened iced green tea with a scoop of matcha powder added. Not only will this save you from the added sugar in the shaken black tea, but it also allows you to control how much matcha goes into your drink.

Milk Options:

Next comes the milk choice. To keep your matcha drink healthy, stick with unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. This saves you from the added sugars and calories found in dairy milk. You can also opt for skim or non-fat milk to reduce overall calorie intake.

When ordering your drink, be sure to specify that you want unsweetened milk, as Starbucks often defaults to using their sweetened vanilla flavored soy milk for their matcha drinks.

Sweetener Alternatives:

If you prefer your matcha on the sweeter side, Starbucks offers a variety of sweeteners to add to your drink. However, these also come with added sugars and calories that can quickly turn your healthy beverage into a sugary treat.

Instead of opting for Starbucks’ classic syrup or vanilla syrup, ask for honey as a natural alternative. You can also add stevia or a stevia blend sweetener if you prefer a calorie-free option.

Flavor Additions:

Some people may enjoy adding flavorings such as vanilla extract or peppermint syrup to their matcha drinks. While these may seem like harmless additions, they are often packed with sugars and artificial flavors. If you want to incorporate extra flavor into your drink, try adding real extracts like pure vanilla extract or pure peppermint extract in small amounts.

Another option is to ask for a chai tea bag on the side and steep it in hot water before adding it to your matcha latte. This adds a delicious spicy note without the added unwanted ingredients found in flavored syrups.

Customization is Key:

The beauty of Starbucks is that they are open to customization when it comes to ordering your drinks. Take advantage of this by asking for specific modifications to make your matcha drink healthier. For example, if you want a lower calorie drink, ask for reduced milk or skip out on the sweeteners altogether. You can also request an extra scoop of matcha powder for a stronger flavor and added health benefits.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the ingredients in your drink. Starbucks baristas are trained to provide nutritional information and ingredient lists upon request.

Other Tips:

Aside from ordering your matcha drink with specific modifications, there are some general tips to keep in mind when trying to order a healthy option at Starbucks. Firstly, try to avoid any toppings or drizzles on top of your drink as they often contain added sugars and calories.

Secondly, consider the size of your drink. Starbucks offers four sizes for their drinks – tall, grande, venti, and trenta. When trying to keep your matcha beverage healthy, opt for a smaller size as it means less milk and fewer calories overall.

Lastly, be mindful of what you pair with your matcha latte. A sugary pastry or treat can quickly undo all the effort you put

The Rise of Matcha at Starbucks

In recent years, matcha has been gaining popularity as a healthy and flavorful alternative to coffee. This powdered green tea originated in China but has been long praised for its health benefits in Japan. Now, it’s making its way into Starbucks stores across the globe. With its vibrant green color and unique taste, matcha offers a refreshing change to the typical coffee shop menu.

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of green tea that is made from finely ground whole tea leaves. Unlike traditional green tea which is brewed with hot water and then discarded, matcha is consumed as a powder dissolved in liquid. This results in a more concentrated and potent form of green tea, making it rich in antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.

Choosing the Right Matcha Drink

When ordering matcha at Starbucks, be sure to specify whether you want hot or iced to ensure the best flavor and experience. You can also customize your drink by choosing from different milk options including almond, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option or whole milk for a creamier taste.

For those who want an extra boost of caffeine, ask your barista to add an espresso shot to your drink. This will give you the energy boost without sacrificing the health benefits of matcha.

The Health Benefits of Matcha

Matcha is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Due to its high concentration of antioxidants called catechins, matcha can boost your immune system, promote healthy skin and improve brain function. Additionally, studies have shown that matcha can help with weight loss by boosting metabolism and increasing fat burning.

The caffeine in matcha also provides an energy boost without the crash often experienced from coffee. It contains an amino acid called L-theanine which promotes relaxation and focus without causing jitters or anxiety.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Ordering Matcha at Starbucks

When ordering matcha at Starbucks, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to specify that you want matcha powder and not the green tea bags. This will ensure that your drink is made using quality matcha powder.

Additionally, remember to ask for your drink to be made with unsweetened matcha powder. This will prevent added sugars and artificial sweeteners from taking away from the natural health benefits of matcha.

Another important tip is to ask for your drink to be prepared with hot water before the milk is added. This allows the matcha powder to properly dissolve and ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Matcha at Starbucks

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several ways to spice up your matcha drink at Starbucks. One popular option is adding a pump of vanilla syrup for a subtle sweetness without overwhelming the flavor of matcha.

Some customers also enjoy adding cocoa powder or cinnamon on top of their iced matcha drinks for an extra flavor kick. You can also ask for a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a unique twist on salty-sweet flavors.

For those looking for an even healthier option, try requesting a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice in your hot matcha drink. These ingredients can help detoxify the body and add some tangy flavor notes without overpowering the taste of the matcha.

Next time you visit Starbucks, consider straying away from your usual coffee order and give matcha a try. Not only does it offer unique and delicious flavor profiles, but it’s also packed with beneficial nutrients and health benefits. Be sure to use our tips when ordering to ensure the best experience possible. Embrace the rise of matcha at Starbucks and enjoy a guilt-free and refreshing drink.

1. How can I order a healthy matcha drink at Starbucks?
To order a healthy matcha drink at Starbucks, you can simply ask the barista for a “matcha latte made with nonfat milk and no added sweeteners.” This will give you a low calorie, low sugar option for your matcha fix.

2. Does Starbucks offer any alternative milk options for their matcha drinks?
Yes, Starbucks offers a variety of alternative milk options such as soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. You can request your matcha latte to be made with one of these alternatives instead of regular dairy milk.

3. Can I customize the amount of sweetener in my matcha drink?
Absolutely! You can ask the barista to adjust the amount of sweetener in your matcha drink according to your preference. You can also opt for sugar-free sweetening options like stevia or Splenda.

4. Are there any add-ins or toppings that can make my matcha drink healthier?
You can add protein powder or collagen powder to your matcha latte for added health benefits and to increase its nutritional value. You can also top your drink with cinnamon or cocoa powder instead of sugary syrups.

5. What is the healthiest way to enjoy a hot matcha latte from Starbucks?
To keep your hot matcha latte as healthy as possible, opt for nonfat milk and no added sweeteners. This will significantly reduce the calorie and sugar content in your drink while still giving you the caffeine boost and antioxidant benefits of matcha.

6. Can I order a non-dairy iced matcha green tea at Starbucks?
Yes, you can! You can request an iced green tea made with soy milk and topped with unsweetened whipped cream for a refreshing and dairy-free alternative. Just make sure to ask for no added sweeteners to keep it healthy.

In conclusion, ordering healthy matcha at Starbucks can be a simple and satisfying experience if you know what to look for and how to customize your drink. By opting for unsweetened matcha and adding natural sweeteners instead, choosing plant-based milk options, and asking for no whipped cream or syrups, you can create a nutritious and delicious beverage. Furthermore, taking into consideration the calorie content and potential benefits of matcha, such as its high antioxidant levels and potential metabolism-boosting properties, can help you make informed decisions when ordering. It is also important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to indulging in specialty drinks. Whether you are looking to cut back on sugar or simply want to make more health-conscious choices, these tips can help guide you in ordering a healthier version of your favorite matcha drink at Starbucks. With some creativity and mindfulness, you can enjoy your matcha fix without compromising your well-being. So next time you’re at Starbucks, keep in mind the tips discussed in this article and customize your order to create a truly nourishing drink that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals. Cheers to a healthier matcha experience!

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.