Cashew Matcha Latte, Low-carb, Vegan and Easy
Last updated on April 13th, 2024
Try this Cashew Matcha Latte – a delicious and wholesome drink packed with mood-boosting antioxidants and healthy fats.
This cozy drink takes 10 minutes to make; it’s low-carb and vegan. Treat yourself today!
| serving | carbs | fibre | net carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 18.6g | 10.2g | 8.4g |
Cashew Matcha Latte, Low Carb and Vegan
Are you looking for a delicious and wholesome drink packed with mood-boosting antioxidants and healthy fats? Or something low-carb AND vegan?
Try this Cashew Matcha Latte – the perfect combination of Japanese matcha, cashews, and almond milk! This drink will surely leave you relaxed and healthier with its bone-strengthening, detoxifying, and overall health-boosting properties. Treat yourself to a mugful of this deliciousness now!
An extraordinary Cashew Matcha Latte combination
Lattes aren’t my go-to, but I’ve been making this earthy latte regularly since buying matcha tea powder to make Matcha Tea Ice Cream.
Besides, there’s something extraordinary about the earthy taste of matcha and cashews combined with warm almond milk, plus the bonus of a frothy top layer (on to that in a second), which is divine!
Frothy top layer
As you may know, more than almond milk is needed to create the foamy texture required in cappuccinos and hot lattes. So enter raw cashews, an excellent addition to this recipe since they help form the perfect foam on the latte. Cashews are also low in carbs when eaten in moderation and are often used in vegan recipes.
SPOTLIGHT on Cashews
The first time I tried this amazing Cashew Matcha Latte, I was left feeling surprisingly sleepy. It gets even more interesting!
I did some digging and found out that cashews have a unique property that can make you feel relaxed and ready for bed. However, I might have gone a bit overboard with the cashews, as more than a quarter of a cup in the latte was enough to knock me out!
But let me tell you, the experience was worth it! I’ve adjusted the cashew amount for this recipe, but if you have trouble sleeping, forget about melatonin and try this delicious latte instead.
Health Benefits of Cashew Matcha Latte
This low-carb, vegan Cashew Matcha Latte recipe is simple to prepare and like a health spa in a cup! It combines the beneficial antioxidants in pure matcha with the ground texture of raw cashews. Let’s break down some of the benefits of these two ingredients in this easy-to-follow recipe.
Nutritious Matcha
- Matcha provides a gradual energy boost throughout the day despite having high caffeine content, unlike coffee, which can cause an afternoon crash, which can cause you to crash by early afternoon.
- Additionally, it helps to keep you alert for an extended period without causing a spike in blood sugar levels.
- Matcha is a potent source of antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. That means free radicals are unstable molecules that can build up excessively in our bodies and affect other molecules. Therefore, antioxidants help to prevent free radicals from harming our cellular system and DNA.
- Chlorophyll, which is inherent in Matcha (for its luscious green colour), has amazing detoxifying properties since it can help support our body’s natural cleansing process and keep us feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Calming Cashews
- Cashews are a great source of magnesium and vitamin B6, which can help promote restful sleep.
- Additionally, cashews contain compounds that have been shown to have a calming effect on the brain, which may help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.
- Munching on a few cashews before bedtime can do wonders for your sleep. A handful of these delicious nuts can help regulate your sleep patterns and give you a peaceful and restful night, especially if you suffer from insomnia or restless nights.
- Cashews can be a great snack to control those annoying hunger cravings. Not only that, but they also provide a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. Additionally, they contribute to maintaining a healthy gut.
Carbs and Servings in Cashew Matcha Latte
This recipe makes one serving (about one and a half cups) of delicious Cashew Matcha Latte, but double or triple the recipe for extra servings and adjust the amount of cashews according to your desired texture.
This Cashew Matcha Latte has under 10g net carbs
This recipe will leave you satisfied and full after one serving, and you probably won’t need to consume anything for a couple of hours. With about 204 calories, one serving is excellent for those intermittent fasting hours.
However, with 18.6g of carbs and 10.2g of fibre, this beverage relaxes and will make you feel healthier. And if you’re concerned about net carbs, the right amount of cashews called for in the recipe makes one serving only around 8.4g of net carbs.
Equipment Notes and List
To prepare this recipe, you’ll require an immersion blender with a blade attachment to grind the cashews right in the saucepan since this approach eliminates the necessity of transferring the latte from one container to another—this way, everything can be easily prepared in a single saucepan. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can check out the best tips and suggestions on how to make this recipe without one.
Equipment List:
- A small, deep saucepan – to prevent spillage while using the immersion blender.
- Immersion blender/stick – blend the raw cashews in the saucepan.
- Strainer – to sieve the matcha powder and remove any lumps.
- Measuring spoon – add the right amount of matcha so you know how much or less to add to your preference next time.
- Wooden spoon – to help dissolve the sweetener and mix the cashews into the milk.
- Mug or cup – to serve.
Ingredient Notes
Unsweetened Almond Milk – I use the Silk brand, and sometimes I get the unsweetened vanilla flavoured, which also works.
Matcha Tea Powder – Buy it online or at a health store. Jade Leaf and Elan Organic Matcha powder from Amazon are good ones to try.
Raw cashews – ideal for creating a creamy texture and thick foam in this latte; adding more than the recommended amount will result in a thicker consistency. Buy them unsalted from most supermarkets.
Sweetener – Any sweetener you have on hand. I use Volupta from Costco, which is mainly erythritol with Monk-fruit.
Let’s Make Cashew Matcha Latte (Step by Step)
1) Warm the milk, sweetener and cashews
- Combine unsweetened almond milk, sweetener, and cashews in a small, deep saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat until steam rises, stirring frequently.
- Continue on a slow simmer for about 5 minutes, but do not allow it to boil. This will soften the cashews and make them ready for blending.
2) Grind the cashews
- Reduce the heat to low, and grind the cashews in the milk using an immersion blender until fully blended and frothy.
- You may need to move the immersion blender slightly up and down while keeping it immersed in the milk to catch any large pieces at the bottom.
3) Sieve matcha powder into the milk and blend
- While keeping the heat low, use a sieve to add matcha powder to the milk to help break up any lumps in the matcha that may have formed during packaging.
- Use the immersion blender again to mix everything thoroughly and create a smooth texture. You will notice that it transforms into a delightful light green and frothy texture.
4) Pour the latte and serve
- Once the latte is smooth and frothy, turn off the heat, pour the latte into your favourite mug, and enjoy!
How to make it without an Immersion Blender
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can still make a delicious cashew matcha latte by following these instructions:
- First, heat a mixture of cashews, milk, and sweetener in a saucepan until it’s warm.
- Then, transfer the mixture to a powerful electric blender, such as a Ninja or Vitamix, that’s designed for making smoothies.
- Add the matcha and blend everything until it’s smooth.
- If the latte has cooled down too much, you can heat it up again in the saucepan or pour it straight into a mug.
Ways to Serve Cashew Matcha Latte
Relish in the cozy and earthy taste of Cashew Matcha Latte by pouring it into a mug and enjoying it!
This latte tastes great with chocolate, or you can also try it with low-carb cookies like Lemon Biscotti or Dark Chocolate Clusters.
For an extra touch of indulgence, you can top it with whipped coconut cream or cream (if not vegan) and sprinkle some cinnamon or powdered sweetener.
Make this Latte even more fancy! It’s easy to make a pretty DIY barista coffee or latte stencil in a pinch using a large sticky label, a piece of paper, a cutting mat, scissors, a pencil and a sharp utility knife.
Storage Notes
This Cashew Matcha Latte is best stored in a sealed container or travel cup in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Great for when you need to be ready on the go! You can store it for up to two days, but make sure to consume it either warmed up or as an iced latte before it goes bad.
To make an iced latte, you can pour the leftover latte into a tall glass over ice cubes.
This Cashew Matcha Latte is not suitable for freezing since it will lose its frothy texture after thawing.
Best Tips and Suggestions
- Ensure the latte is not too hot but just warm enough to drink after pouring it into a mug.
- Simmer the latte for about 5 mins to soften the cashews, ready for grinding.
- Use a deep saucepan to avoid spillage when grinding the cashews into the milk.
- Let the latte sit in the mug for a minute or two, allowing froth to form on the top layer.
- Always use Matcha green tea powder instead of green tea bags for this recipe. Using green tea bags won’t result in the desired taste or texture.
Variations
- Use less cashews or add more almond milk for a thinner consistency in your latte. However, this will result in a thinner foam on top.
- Pour the latte into a travel mug to enjoy it on the go, or let it cool and pour it over ice cubes for an iced latte.
- Add chai spice, cinnamon, or turmeric into the almond milk mixture to bring a whole new level of flavour to this latte.
- You can create a cashew paste instead of using raw cashews by blending soaked cashews with fresh water. Although untested in this recipe, it could potentially work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Matcha?
Matcha can be bought from a variety of sources, both online and in-store. Some popular online sources include Amazon, Teavana, and Matcha Kari. In-store options may include specialty tea stores, health food stores, and some supermarkets. It’s always a good idea to do some research on the brands and types of matcha available to find the best option for your needs.
How can I sweeten a Matcha Latte?
One way to sweeten a low-carb Matcha Latte is by using a natural sweetener like Erythritol or monk fruit extract, which are available in many grocery stores. Some other sweeteners to try are:-
- Swerve Brown is ideal for baking and making caramel sauces. Contains erythritol.
- Stevia liquid is usually found in the coffee/tea aisles or along white sugar shelves.
- Allulose is a plant-based sweetener that won’t turn into crystals. So, it’s perfect for making low-carb syrups and ice cream and for adding to beverages.
- Yacon syrup is extracted from the yacon plant. Some say it tastes like molasses.
- Bocha Sweet is a plant-based sweetener, but is difficult to find in stores.
- Also, try adding a drop of vanilla extract or cinnamon to enhance the flavour of your low-carb Latte.
- I suggest adding a small amount of either sweetener to your Matcha Latte and adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
- Another option is to use a low-carb milk alternative like unsweetened cashew or coconut milk, adding a creamy texture and a touch of added sweetness to your latte.
What other milks can I use to make this recipe?
There are several low-carb milk options that you can use to make a low-carb matcha latte. Some of the popular options are:
- Almond milk (unsweetened): Almond milk is low in carbs and calories and has a nutty flavour that goes well with matcha tea.
- Coconut milk (unsweetened): This milk is also low in carbs and has a creamy texture that works well in a latte.
- Cashew milk (unsweetened): Cashew milk is a good source of healthy fats and protein and has a creamy texture that works well in a latte.
- Hemp milk (unsweetened): Hemp milk is high in omega-3 fatty acids and has a slightly nutty flavour that complements the earthy taste of matcha.
- Flax milk (unsweetened): Flax milk is low in carbs and calories and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that works well in a latte.
- Expert Tip: When choosing a low-carb milk option, make sure to opt for unsweetened varieties, as sweetened milk can add unnecessary carbs and calories to your latte.
How can I make a regular low-carb Matcha Latte?
To make a regular Matcha Latte, follow the steps for Cashew Matcha Latte, but omit the cashews and add a tablespoon of whipping cream if you’re not vegan. Alternatively, swap the whipping cream with coconut cream for a vegan version.
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Cashew Matcha Latte, Low-carb, Vegan and Easy
EQUIPMENT
- Small, deep saucepan
- Immersion blender/stick
- Strainer
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden Spoon
- Serving Mug/Cup
INGREDIENTS
- 1½ cups Unsweetened Almond Milk - (350ml/12 oz) I use the Silk brand, but the unsweetened vanilla flavoured will also work.
- 1 tsp Matcha Tea Powder - Buy it online or at a health store.
- 18 Raw cashews - (28g) Buy them unsalted from most supermarkets.
- 2 tsp Sweetener - any sweetener you have on hand. I use Volupta from Costco.
INSTRUCTIONS
1) Warm the milk, sweetener and cashews
- Combine unsweetened almond milk, sweetener, and cashews in a small, deep saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat until steam rises, stirring frequently.
- Continue on a slow simmer for about 5 minutes, but do not allow it to boil. This will soften the cashews and make them ready for grinding.
2) Grind the cashews
- Reduce the heat to low, and grind the cashews in the milk using an immersion blender until fully blended and frothy.
- You may need to move the immersion blender slightly up and down while keeping it immersed in the milk to catch any large pieces at the bottom.
3) Sieve matcha powder into the milk and blend
- While keeping the heat low, use a sieve to add matcha powder to the milk to help break up any lumps in the matcha that may have formed during packaging.
- Use the immersion blender again to mix everything thoroughly and create a smooth texture. You will notice that it transforms into a delightful light green and frothy texture.
4)Pour the latte and serve
- Once the latte is smooth and frothy, turn off the heat, pour the latte into your favourite mug, and enjoy!
RECIPE NOTES
Best Tips and Suggestions
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can still make a delicious cashew matcha latte by following these instructions.
- First, heat a mixture of cashews, milk, and sweetener in a saucepan until it’s warm.
- Then, transfer the mixture to a powerful electric blender, such as a Ninja or Vitamix, that’s designed for making smoothies.
- Add the matcha and blend everything until it’s smooth.
- If the latte has cooled down too much, you can heat it up again in the saucepan or pour it straight into a mug.
- Ensure the latte is not too hot but just warm enough to drink after pouring it into a mug.
- Simmer the latte for about 5 mins to soften the cashews, ready for grinding.
- Use a deep saucepan to avoid spillage when grinding the cashews into the milk.
- Let the latte sit in the mug for a minute or two, allowing froth to form on the top layer.
- Always use Matcha green tea powder instead of green tea bags for this recipe. Using green tea bags won’t result in the desired taste or texture.
Variations
- Use less cashews or add more almond milk for a thinner consistency in your latte. However, this will result in a thinner foam on top.
- Pour the latte into a travel mug to enjoy it on the go, or let it cool and pour it over ice cubes for an iced latte.
- Add chai spice, cinnamon, or turmeric into the almond milk mixture to bring a whole new level of flavour to this latte.
- You can create a cashew paste instead of using raw cashews by blending soaked cashews with fresh water. Although untested in this recipe, it could potentially work.