Green tea powder is an ingredient that has gained massive popularity, and many coffee chains are incorporating it into their menus. Starbucks, the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, is one of the chains that has found great success with green tea powder. In fact, the chain has made green tea powder one of its signature ingredients, offering a wide variety of teas and drinks that utilize the powder.
Starbucks, with its ever-growing menu and dedicated customer base, seeks to appeal to all kinds of tastes and preferences. That’s why the chain’s green tea powder has become such a hit. By using high-quality matcha powder, Starbucks creates delicious, earthy, and nutrient-dense drinks that are not only tasty but also incredibly healthy. Green tea powder is rich in antioxidants and provides a long-lasting energy boost without the crash associated with coffee and sugar-laden drinks. Starbucks has been able to capture this health-conscious market and provide its customers with a premium green tea experience.
What’s more, Starbucks uses green tea powder in many of its other menu items as well, including pastries, desserts, and even smoothies. The versatility of the ingredient, along with its health benefits and unique flavor profile, make it a favorite among Starbucks’ loyal customers. From the classic green tea latte to the more adventurous Iced Pineapple Green Tea Infusion, Starbucks’ green tea powder is a staple ingredient in many of its most popular drinks. With its emphasis on quality ingredients and customer satisfaction, it’s no wonder that Starbucks’ green tea powder has become such a beloved addition to the chain’s menu.
Health Benefits of Green Tea Powder
Green tea powder, or matcha, is made from finely ground tea leaves. Although green tea itself is known for its numerous health benefits, matcha takes things to a new level due to its unique method of consumption. When you consume green tea, you usually steep the leaves in hot water and then discard them. With matcha, however, you consume the whole tea leaves and thus reap even more benefits.
- Antioxidant-rich: Matcha is loaded with antioxidants called catechins, specifically epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is known for its potent health benefits. Antioxidants in matcha protect the body from damage caused by free radicals which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
- Mood and cognitive boost: Matcha contains a compound called L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Paired with caffeine in matcha, it can create a calm alertness and improve cognitive function and attention.
- Weight loss aid: Matcha contains a type of antioxidant called EGCG, which boosts metabolism and promotes fat burning. It has been shown to increase thermogenesis, or the body’s rate of burning calories, up to 17%.
How to Incorporate Matcha into Your Diet
There are many ways to add matcha to your diet and reap its health benefits. Here are a few suggestions:
- Drink it as tea: Whisk 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder with hot water and enjoy as a delicious and calming tea.
- Add it to smoothies: Add a scoop of matcha powder to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra boost of antioxidants and a vibrant green color.
- Bake with it: Matcha powder can add a unique flavor and color to baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and bread.
Green Tea Powder Used by Starbucks
Starbucks uses a blend of matcha powder made from Japanese green tea. The matcha is shade-grown for several weeks before harvest, which increases the chlorophyll content and gives it a more vibrant green color. Starbucks uses this high-quality matcha powder to make their famous matcha lattes and other matcha-based drinks.
| Starbucks Green Tea Powder Blend Ingredients: |
|---|
| Sugar |
| Ground Japanese Green Tea |
| Ground Chinese Green Tea |
| Salt |
| Matcha Tea Blend (Sugar, Ground Japanese Green Tea) |
While Starbucks’ matcha powder does contain added sugar, the health benefits of matcha still make it a great option for a caffeine boost with added health benefits.
Different Grades of Green Tea Powder
Green tea powder, or matcha, is the main ingredient in Starbucks Green Tea Latte. Not all green tea powder is created equal, with different grades offering varying levels of quality and taste. Here are the grades of green tea powder available:
- Specialty Grade – The highest quality of green tea powder available, made from the youngest and most delicate tea leaves, processed with utmost care to preserve their vibrant green color.
- Ceremonial Grade – This grade is made from the topmost leaves, handpicked and deveined to ensure the most authentic Japanese tea flavor and aroma. It has a slightly bitter taste and is ideal for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
- Classic Grade – This is the most common grade of green tea powder, made from leaves picked from the top few layers, resulting in a finer texture but a slightly less bright green color than the higher grades. It is suitable for everyday use.
The higher grades of green tea powder have a richer flavor and aroma, with a smoother and creamier texture. These qualities make them ideal for making traditional matcha tea, as well as premium matcha-based drinks like Starbucks Green Tea Latte.
Below is a table comparing the different grades of green tea powder:
| Grade | Quality | Flavor | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialty | Highest | Rich, smooth, creamy | Vivid green |
| Ceremonial | High | Slightly bitter, authentic Japanese flavor | Bright green |
| Classic | Good | Mild, slightly sweet | Light green |
While all grades of green tea powder can be used to make Starbucks Green Tea Latte, the higher grades are recommended for a more authentic and elevated drinking experience.
How to Make a Matcha Latte Like Starbucks
If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ green tea latte, you will be pleased to know that you can easily make a matcha latte like Starbucks at home without breaking the bank. Here’s how:
- Purchase high-quality matcha green tea powder. The brand Starbucks uses is Tazo Matcha, which is a blend of Japanese matcha green tea with sugar and natural flavors. You can find Tazo Matcha on Amazon or at your local Starbucks store. Or, you can buy other high-quality matcha green tea powder from specialty tea shops or online.
- Prepare the matcha tea. Sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a bowl using a fine-mesh strainer. Add a small amount of warm water or milk and whisk until the powder is dissolved and there are no lumps. Then, add 8-12 ounces of warm milk and stir.
- Add sweetener (optional). If you prefer your matcha latte to be sweet, you can add sugar, honey, agave, or vanilla syrup to taste. Starbucks uses a syrup that contains sugar and green tea powder, which gives the latte its distinct taste and color.
By following these easy steps, you can make a delicious matcha latte like Starbucks at home and enjoy it anytime! For an extra touch, you can also add whipped cream, caramel, or cinnamon on top of your latte.
Matcha Powder Grades
Matcha powder comes in different grades, each with its unique taste, color, and price. Here’s a breakdown of the different matcha grades:
- Ceremonial grade matcha: This is the highest quality matcha powder and is used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. It has a bright green color, sweet taste, and a smooth texture. It’s also the most expensive and usually costs around $30-$50 for 30 grams.
- Premium grade matcha: This type of matcha powder is used for everyday drinking and cooking. It has a slightly bitter taste and a darker green color than ceremonial grade matcha. It’s more affordable than ceremonial grade matcha and usually costs around $20-$30 for 30 grams.
- Culinary grade matcha: This is the lowest quality matcha powder and is used for baking, cooking, and making smoothies. It has a dull green color, a bitter taste, and a grainy texture. It’s the most affordable and usually costs around $10-$20 for 30 grams.
When making a matcha latte like Starbucks, you can use any grade of matcha powder, depending on your preference and budget. Premium grade matcha is a good compromise between quality and price and is suitable for making matcha lattes at home.
Benefits of Drinking Matcha Latte
Matcha latte not only tastes delicious but also has numerous health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of drinking matcha latte:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| High in antioxidants | Matcha is high in antioxidants called catechins, which may help prevent cancer, heart disease, and aging. |
| Boosts metabolism | Matcha contains caffeine and a type of antioxidant called EGCG, which can increase metabolism and help burn fat. |
| Calming effect | Matcha contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which can promote relaxation and reduce stress. |
| Improves brain function | Matcha can enhance cognitive function, improve attention, and increase mental alertness. |
| Boosts immune system | Matcha contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can strengthen the immune system and prevent infections. |
Drinking matcha latte regularly can offer these health benefits and improve your overall well-being. So why not try making a matcha latte like Starbucks at home and experience the goodness of matcha tea?
The History of Matcha Tea in Japan
Matcha tea has been a staple in Japan for over 900 years. It was first introduced into the country by the Chinese during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) as a medicinal drink. The tea leaves were ground into a powder, which was then mixed with hot water. Over the years, matcha tea became an essential part of Japanese culture and was used in various tea ceremonies.
Benefits of Matcha Tea
- High in Antioxidants: Matcha is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Boosts Metabolism: The high concentration of the amino acid L-theanine in matcha tea helps to increase metabolism and burn fat.
- Calming Effects: Matcha contains a unique amino acid, called L-theanine, which promotes a state of relaxation without causing drowsiness.
The Production Process of Matcha Tea
Matcha powder is made from the leaves of shade-grown tea plants. The plants are covered in a canopy to reduce the amount of sunlight that can reach them. This causes the plants to produce more chlorophyll, giving the leaves a vibrant green color. Once the leaves are harvested, they are steamed, dried, and sorted. The stems and veins are removed, leaving only the leaves which are ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills.
One of the most significant differences between matcha and other teas is the way it is consumed. Rather than steeping the leaves and discarding them, matcha is whisked into hot water, allowing the drinker to consume the entire tea leaf and benefit from its full nutritional value.
The Relationship Between Starbucks and Matcha Tea
Starbucks began using matcha tea powder in their stores in 2006, in response to a growing demand for healthier beverage options. They source their matcha powder from two regions in Japan, Nishio and Kagoshima, which are known for producing high-quality matcha powder.
| Starbucks Matcha Tea Grades | Description |
|---|---|
| Teavana Matcha | This grade of matcha is used in Starbucks’ iced and hot matcha lattes. It has a slightly sweet and floral flavor profile and is grown in Kagoshima. |
| Teavana Imperial Grade Matcha | This grade of matcha is reserved for Starbucks’ premium matcha menu items such as the Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino. It has a deeper and more complex flavor profile than the Teavana Matcha and is grown in Nishio. |
In conclusion, matcha tea has a rich history in Japan and has now become a popular beverage worldwide. Starbucks has recognized the benefits of matcha tea and has incorporated it into their menu offerings, further solidifying its place in mainstream consumer culture.
Matcha vs. traditional green tea
When it comes to green tea, Starbucks uses two main types: matcha and traditional green tea. Matcha has gained popularity in recent years due to its health benefits and unique taste. But how does matcha compare to traditional green tea?
Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that is made by grinding high-quality tea leaves into a fine powder. Traditional green tea, on the other hand, is made by steeping tea leaves in hot water. Here are some key differences between these two types of green tea:
- Processing: Matcha is made by grinding the entire tea leaf into a fine powder, which means you consume the entire leaf and all of its nutrients. Traditional green tea leaves are steeped in hot water, and the leaves are removed before consuming. This means that some of the nutrients in the leaves may be lost.
- Caffeine: Matcha contains more caffeine than traditional green tea. This is because you consume the entire tea leaf when drinking matcha, whereas with traditional green tea, some of the caffeine is lost when the leaves are removed.
- Taste: Matcha has a unique and distinct taste, which some people describe as grassy or earthy. Traditional green tea has a milder taste and aroma.
Despite these differences, both matcha and traditional green tea have several health benefits. They are both rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against disease and promote overall health. They also contain compounds that can help boost metabolism and improve brain function.
So which type of green tea is better? It ultimately depends on personal preference and your health goals. If you prefer a stronger taste and want to consume the entire tea leaf, matcha may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a milder taste and want to experience the benefits of green tea without as much caffeine, traditional green tea may be the better choice.
| Matcha | Traditional Green Tea |
|---|---|
| Contains the entire tea leaf | Leaves are steeped in water and removed |
| Higher in caffeine | Lower in caffeine |
| Distinct, grassy taste | Milder taste |
No matter which type of green tea you choose, adding it to your daily routine is a smart choice for maintaining good health.
Ingredients in Starbucks’ Green Tea Powder Blend
Starbucks’ green tea powder blend, commonly known as matcha powder, is made from high-quality tea leaves that have been finely ground into a powder form. The blend is made from a combination of natural ingredients that work together to create the perfect cup of green tea. Here are the ingredients in Starbucks’ green tea powder blend:
- Ground Japanese Green Tea: The core ingredient in Starbucks’ green tea powder blend is high-quality, ground Japanese green tea. This tea comes from the shade-grown tea leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is known for its rich flavor and health benefits.
- Sugar: To balance the bitterness of the green tea, Starbucks’ green tea powder blend contains sugar. The sugar content is enough to impart a subtle sweetness to the tea without being overwhelming.
- Corn Syrup Solids: Corn syrup solids are used to preserve the freshness of the green tea powder blend. They act as a stabilizer and prevent the tea from clumping together.
- Natural Flavors: Natural flavors are added to enhance the flavor of the green tea powder blend. These flavors come from natural sources and give the tea a distinctive taste.
- Salt: A small amount of salt is added to the blend to bring out the flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Soy Lecithin: Soy lecithin is used as an emulsifier in the green tea powder blend. It helps to mix the ingredients together and keep them from separating.
Starbucks’ green tea powder blend is a unique and delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of green tea. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, its rich flavor and natural ingredients make it a great choice for any time of day.
Green Tea Powder Recipes for Baking and Cooking
Green tea powder, or matcha, not only makes a delicious tea, but it’s also a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking. From sweet to savory, here are some recipes you can try with green tea powder:
- Green Tea Latte
- Matcha Smoothie Bowl
- Matcha Ice Cream
- Matcha Shortbread Cookies
- Green Tea White Chocolate Brownies
- Matcha Cheesecake
- Matcha Pesto Pasta
Matcha’s distinctive earthy and bitter flavor pairs well with sweet ingredients like chocolate, white chocolate, coconut, and honey. In baking, adding matcha powder to your batter or dough gives your baked goods a unique green color and a subtle green tea flavor.
Matcha is also a great ingredient in savory dishes. It can add a bright green color and unique taste to pasta dishes, risottos, and sauces. Pesto made with matcha has a vibrant green color and a slightly bitter taste.
| Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Matcha Cheesecake | – 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – 1/4 cup sugar – 1/3 cup melted butter – 2 cups cream cheese – 1/2 cup sugar – 3 eggs – 2 tbsp matcha powder – 1 tsp vanilla extract – 1/2 cup sour cream |
1. Preheat oven to 350F. 2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. 3. Press the mixture into a greased 9-inch springform pan. 4. In another bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and matcha powder until smooth. 5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 6. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream. 7. Pour mixture over the crust. 8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set. 9. Let cool and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. |
| Matcha Pesto Pasta | – 8 oz spaghetti – 2 cups fresh basil leaves – 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup olive oil – 1/4 cup pine nuts – 1 tbsp matcha powder – 2 cloves garlic – Salt and pepper to taste |
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. 2. In a food processor, pulse basil leaves, parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, matcha powder, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. 3. Toss cooked spaghetti with pesto. 4. Serve hot or cold. |
Experiment with matcha in your recipes and discover how this superfood can elevate your dishes with its unique flavor, color, and health benefits.
7 FAQs About What Green Tea Powder Does Starbucks Use
1. What is the green tea powder that Starbucks uses?
Starbucks uses a premium Japanese green tea powder known as matcha to make their green tea lattes.
2. What is matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves that are shaded from the sun.
3. What are the benefits of drinking matcha?
Matcha contains high levels of antioxidants, boosts metabolism, and enhances concentration and mood.
4. How is matcha different from regular green tea?
Matcha is made from shade grown tea leaves, which increases the chlorophyll content and amino acids. This gives matcha a unique rich flavor and a vibrant green color.
5. Can I purchase the green tea powder that Starbucks uses?
Yes, the green tea powder that Starbucks uses is sold under the name “Teavana Matcha” and can be purchased online or in select Starbucks locations.
6. How much caffeine is in a matcha green tea latte from Starbucks?
A 16 oz. serving of a matcha green tea latte from Starbucks contains about 80mg of caffeine, which is similar to a cup of coffee.
7. How do I make a matcha green tea latte at home?
To make a matcha green tea latte at home, mix 1 tsp. of matcha powder with a small amount of hot water to make a paste. Then add 8 oz. of steamed milk and sweetener of your choice.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped answer your questions about the green tea powder that Starbucks uses. Remember that you can purchase the same powder online or in select stores to make your own matcha lattes at home. Thanks for reading and be sure to check back for more helpful articles in the future!