Cinnamon Matcha Latte
Cinnamon Matcha Latte is a heartwarming beverage in which Japan’s traditional matcha and the globally long-beloved spice cinnamon are exquisitely harmonized.
This unique combination brings forth a new flavor, where the deep umami of matcha and the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon intertwine. It is especially suited for cold seasons or when you want to relax.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at its appeal and nutritional benefits, and also introduce a recommended recipe for Cinnamon Matcha Latte.
The Exquisite Flavor of Cinnamon Matcha Latte
Matcha latte and cinnamon—this pairing creates a flavor that captivates many.
Matcha is made by carefully grinding tea leaves with a stone mill into a fine powder, and is known for its rich umami and subtle bitterness. On the other hand, cinnamon is a spice characterized by its sweet, spicy aroma and is used to add depth to both food and drinks. When combined, the bitterness of matcha becomes mellow, gently wrapped in the fragrance of cinnamon, creating a perfectly balanced flavor.
Moreover, the creamy matcha latte gains a deeper richness when adding cinnamon’s spiciness.
The warm aroma of cinnamon also makes it an ideal drink for cold seasons. Especially popular during the holiday season, it’s loved as a winter staple. Its sweet and spicy scent enhances the festive atmosphere even more.
The harmonious blend of matcha and cinnamon—once you try it, you’ll surely be captivated by its charm.
Nutritional Components of Cinnamon Matcha Latte
Cinnamon Matcha Latte contains unique nutrients from both matcha and cinnamon, and is also attracting attention as a health-supportive beverage.
Features of Matcha
Matcha is rich in catechins, which are expected to have antioxidant effects. Additionally, due to its cultivation method of growing under shade, it contains a higher amount of theanine, a compound known for its relaxing properties, as well as enhancing matcha’s umami.
Since matcha is consumed in powdered form, using the entire tea leaf, it allows for a more efficient intake of nutrients compared to regular green tea.
Features of Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains proanthocyanidins, which, like catechins, are known for their antioxidant properties. It also has a warming effect on the body, making it a convenient spice for combatting the cold during winter.
Its unique fragrance and flavor have long been used for health benefit and have been enjoyed across the globe. In recent years, due to growing health consciousness, it’s increasingly used in familiar drinks into familiar drinks like smoothies and lattes.
Caution Regarding Intake Amount
In addition to the nutrients mentioned earlier, matcha also contains caffeine, which is expected to help with concentration. However, the maximum recommended daily intake of caffeine is 400 mg, and exceeding this may negatively affect your health.
Likewise, it is important to consume cinnamon in moderation. Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which in large amounts may negatively affect liver function. According to Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), the recommended daily upper intake limit of coumarin is 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight.
A study found that cinnamon can contain between 11 to 6,700 µg of coumarin per gram. At the maximum level (6,700 µg), for someone weighing 50 kg, a safe daily intake would be approximately 0.8 g of cinnamon.
Therefore, when enjoying Cinnamon Matcha Latte, it’s important to adhere to proper quantities. To maximize its health benefits, be sure to enjoy it in moderation and with balance.
Expanding the Enjoyment of Cinnamon Matcha Latte with Various Arrangements
With just a bit of creativity added to the basic recipe, Cinnamon Matcha Latte can be enjoyed in many variations. Here are some ideas to help customize it to your personal taste.
Sweeteners
If you wish to add sweetness, natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey are recommended instead of sugar. These sweeteners add their unique flavor to the matcha and cinnamon blend, creating a richer taste while keeping it healthy without compromising the flavor.
Controlling Caffeine Intake
For those who want to manage their caffeine intake, adjusting the amount of matcha used can help. Using decaffeinated matcha also makes it easier to enjoy even at night.
Plant-Based Milks
If you prefer to avoid dairy, using plant-based milk such as oat milk or almond milk is recommended. These not only reduce calories but also create a gentle and creamy taste. The natural sweetness of plant-based milks further enhances the flavors of matcha and cinnamon, making them ideal for preparing vegan-friendly lattes.
Adding Spices
By adding a small amount of spices like cardamom, clove, nutmeg, or ginger to the cinnamon base, you can create a spiced latte with complex, deep flavor. This is a particularly recommended variation for spice lovers who want to enjoy a more distinctive and unique taste.
Using Cinnamon Sticks
Using cinnamon sticks instead of cinnamon powder gives the aroma a more natural and subtle quality, and can also serve as an accent when drinking. They also add a visual appeal, making them perfect for crafting a special cup.
Recommended Cinnamon Matcha Latte Recipe
Using some of the variation ideas above, here is a recommended Cinnamon Matcha Latte recipe. This recipe does not require any special techniques, so anyone can easily enjoy an authentic Cinnamon Matcha Latte at home.
MATCHA DIRECT’s Decaf Matcha
Want to enjoy Cinnamon Matcha Latte but worried about the caffeine in matcha? You’re not alone.
MATCHA DIRECT offers the perfect solution: decaf matcha.
MATCHA DIRECT’s decaf matcha significantly reduces caffeine content while retaining the rich flavor and nutrients unique to matcha. It is highly recommended for those who are sensitive to caffeine or want to enjoy matcha even before bedtime.
This decaf matcha is made using tea leaves carefully cultivated in Kyoto, the heartland of authentic matcha. You can fully enjoy the rich flavor without worrying about caffeine.
If you’re looking for high-quality, health-conscious matcha, we invite you to try MATCHA DIRECT’s decaf matcha.
