Toasted Coconut Matcha Latte (Hot or Iced)

A Flavor-Packed Toasted Coconut Matcha Latte

If you're a coconut fan, you have to try my new obsession: this toasted coconut matcha latte. It's easy to make and doesn't require sugary syrups like many of the coffee shop versions do. Since you can enjoy it hot or iced, and since coconut is a surprisingly versatile flavor, you can come back to this fun matcha latte again and again all season long.

The secret to this toasted coconut latte is to toast some coconut in a dry skillet, then let the coconut steep in milk in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. You'll be amazed at how much decadent, tropical, fragrant coconut flavor ends up in the milk! Although you need to think a day or two ahead about this matcha latte recipe, it's 100% worth it.

Because my husband and I spend winters on the northernmost Hawaiian island, I'm a huge fan of coconut. In fact, I have a whole guide to tropical vegan recipes, and you'll see coconut playing a starring role in many of them.

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What is a Toasted Coconut Latte?

Although versions abound, generally speaking, a toasted coconut latte (or in this case, a toasted coconut matcha latte) is a coffee or tea drink made using milk and the flavor of toasted coconut. Many coffee shops buy coconut syrups, which are often high in sugar and can contain artificial flavors. This version is different though! It uses real, unsweetened, shredded coconut and can easily be made sugar-free as desired.

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How to Make a Toasted Coconut Matcha Latte

This coconut latte is easy to make, although you'll need to think a day or two in advance so that the toasted coconut flavor has time to steep into the milk. You'll start by toasting some unsweetened, finely shredded coconut in a dry skillet until it becomes fragrant and lightly browned. You'll then combine the toasted coconut with whatever milk you want to use in a sealed container and let it infuse in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. After steeping, you can either strain the milk through a fine-mesh sieve if you want to remove the coconut bits, or you can leave them in if you like the texture.

After that, the rest is easy. Either heat up the milk and pour it into a mug for a hot latte, or pour it over ice for an iced latte. I like to add a dash of maple syrup and a few pinches of sea salt, both of which really bring out the coconut flavor. Whisk up your matcha shot, pour it on top, and you're ready to enjoy your island-inspired latte. If you want to give this drink a coffee shop feel, you can top it with some coconut whip and a sprinkle of toasted coconut, although that's of course totally optional.

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Tips for Success

Although this toasted coconut matcha latte is simple to make, I have a few tips to make sure it turns out perfectly:

• Use unsweetened, finely shredded coconut. Using the right kind of coconut is key. Make sure to avoid options with added sugar or preservatives, since they can easily burn. Similarly, avoid options with large flakes since the flavor won't infuse into the milk as effectively.
• Let it steep. Although you might be tempted to make the latte right away, patience is key. Make sure to give the coconut plenty of time (at least 24 hours, but up to several days is fine) to fully steep into the milk. It gets more flavorful with time.
• Choose your texture. If you don't like the idea of coconut floating around in your latte, then just remove it with a fine-mesh strainer before using the milk. Personally though, I love the flavor and texture of the coconut bits! If you strain the coconut out, you can then add it to yogurt, oatmeal, or even cookie dough; it's a flavor powerhouse.
• Make a big batch. If you know you'll want to make this coconut latte a few times in a week (or for multiple people), just double or triple the recipe. It's much more efficient to toast and infuse a large batch of coconut and have it last for a few days. I like to make a double batch, then enjoy a latte for the next two mornings.
• Garnish as desired. If you're serving this toasted coconut matcha latte for a brunch party or just want to treat yourself to a drink that feels fancy, you can top it with some coconut whip and a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Just remember to toast an extra tablespoon for each latte you want to garnish, and set it aside before combining the rest of the coconut with the milk.

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Ingredients and Substitutions

Here's what you'll need for this toasted coconut matcha latte recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.

• Unsweetened shredded coconut. Make sure to get real, finely shredded, unsweetened coconut with no additives. The coconut will not toast well if it contains added sugar or preservatives.
• Plant milk of choice. Feel free to use whatever milk you enjoy. Personally, I love to make vegan matcha lattes with unsweetened soy milk since it adds some protein and has a nice, rich texture. Other plant-based milks like cashew, macadamia, almond, or oat will also work fine, although the texture may feel less creamy.
• Matcha powder. I adore Matcha Nude; use the code ROGUE to get 15% off your order.
• Maple syrup. Optional; you can add some sweetness to this toasted coconut matcha latte if desired.
• Flaky sea salt. If you add a dash of maple syrup to this latte, you can experiment with adding a few pinches of salt to balance it. I find that the delicate sweet/salty combination really makes the toasted coconut flavor come alive.
• Garnishes. If you want to give this toasted coconut matcha latte a coffee shop feel, you can garnish it with some coconut whip and extra toasted coconut. To take it over the top, try adding an edible flower, as I've shown here.

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Other Matcha Recipes + A Matcha Discount

If you love matcha, then you've come to the right place. I'm a huge matcha fan and have lots of matcha recipes here for you to explore. If you're interested in other matcha drinks, you'll love this Vanilla Lilac Matcha Latte for spring, this Blue Coconut Matcha Latte for summer, this Honey Fig Matcha Latte for fall, and this Orange Blossom Matcha Latte for year-round. This simple Salted Maple Matcha Latte is my personal daily go-to. If you want something extra special, check out this White Chocolate Macadamia Matcha Latte or this Acai Matcha Latte.

Like matcha treats? For an easy, satisfying nibble, make this Honey Matcha Freezer Fudge. If you're a chocolate lover, I think you'll enjoy these Raw Vegan Matcha Brownie Bites. If you want a treat that feels decadent but is secretly healthy, these White Chocolate Macadamia Matcha Cookies are a personal favorite. Over the holidays, you'll go crazy for this Christmas Matcha Puppy Chow.

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Get My Favorite Matcha

Since matcha plays a starring role in this açaí matcha latte, you'll want to make sure you use a premium matcha that's bright green and has a delicate flavor with no grassy or bitter notes. My go-to is Matcha Nude; it's the only matcha I use at home and I recommend it so highly. Use the code ROGUE to get 15% off your order.

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Closing Thoughts

I can't wait for you to try this toasted coconut matcha latte. I started making it on a whim when I had leftover toasted coconut from another recipe; since then, I've been hooked! It's amazing how much coconut flavor infuses into the milk. This latte tastes like biting into a toasted coconut cookie, like a macaroon or a Girl Scout Caramel Delight.

Although you might be able to find a toasted coconut latte at the coffee shop, most options use sugary syrups or even artificial flavors. This version is made with just a few whole-food, nourishing ingredients, and can even be made unsweetened. It feels decadent and nostalgic, but is a treat you can enjoy every day. Whether you sip an iced version on a summer day imaging a tropical scene, or sip a hot version on a winter day imaging cozy baking, this is truly a matcha latte you can come back to again and again.

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Share It!

It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.

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Suggested Pairings

Tropical Fruity Brunch Salad‍

Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Mojito Yogurt Sauce

Vegan Mocha Banana Blender Muffins

Coconut Macadamia Granola‍

Chickpea Flour Banana Bread (Vegan, Gluten-Free, High Protein)

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Disclosure: Matcha Nude is a long-term partner. I receive free product from Matcha Nude and take a small commission on sales using the discount code. However, all opinions and thoughts are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep The Rogue Brussel Sprout running.