Salted Caramel Matcha Latte

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the bold vibrancy of matcha with the rich sweetness of salted caramel—and keeping it entirely plant-based and gluten-free—then this vegan salted caramel matcha latte hits the mark perfectly. Blending vibrant green matcha powder (a super-charged green tea with roots in Japanese tradition) with almond milk, a make-ahead vegan caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a drink that’s simultaneously indulgent and inclusive.

Because the caramel is made in advance and stored in the fridge, this latte works beautifully for quick morning treats, brunch-side beverages, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

The vegan caramel sauce is the real hero: it’s crafted without dairy, allowing everyone including dairy-free guests to enjoy the creaminess of caramel without compromise. The matcha brings unique flavor—earthy and grassy with a slight vegetal brightness—that cuts through the sweetness of the caramel, offering balance rather than cloying sugar overload. And by using gluten-free almond milk (or another nut/seed milk) the drink is safely approachable for those avoiding gluten.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, catering to varied dietary preferences, or simply craving a comforting yet elevated beverage at home, this vegan salted caramel matcha latte is a standout. It proves that plant-based and gluten-free don’t mean sacrificing luxury or fun. With the right steps, you can create a drink that feels café-worthy, vibrant, and aligned with wholesome ingredient choices.

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Salted Caramel Matcha Latte

Recipe Details

Yield: 1 serving
Total Time: 30 minutes

Salted Caramel Matcha Latte Ingredients

For the caramel sauce:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ¾ cup maple flavored monkfruit syrup
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

For the latte:

• ½ cup water
• 2 teaspoons matcha latte
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
• Ice

How to Make a Salted Caramel Matcha Latte

1. Make the caramel sauce: Add 1 cup almond milk to a high-sided saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a low boil, then stir in maple syrup. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in almond butter, vanilla, and sea salt until almond butter is completely melted. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
3. Make the latte: Add ½ cup water and matcha latte mix to a glass measuring cup; stir until well blended.
4. Pour 2 tablespoons caramel sauce into the bottom of a tall glass, then add ice.
5. Pour matcha mixture over ice and top with ½ cup of almond milk. Gently stir before serving.

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Salted Caramel Matcha Latte Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 1 serving). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 latte
Calories	≈ 130 kcal
Protein	≈ 2 g
Carbs	≈ 15 g
Sugar	≈ 1 g
Fiber	≈ 1 g
Fat	≈ 7 g

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Matcha Latte Variations & Tips

• Use different plant milks: Swap almond milk for oat, soy or cashew milk depending on your preference or allergy needs.
• Adjust the matcha strength: Use ½ to 1 teaspoon of matcha powder depending on your desired flavor and caffeine level—less for subtle, more for bold.
• Flavor the caramel: Add a pinch of smoked sea salt or a drop of vanilla extract to your vegan caramel sauce for deeper nuance.
• Make it iced or warm: Serve the latte over ice for a refreshing chilled version or gently warm the milk and caramel for a cozy hot drink.
• Make ahead caramel: The vegan caramel sauce can be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to two weeks—ready for multiple uses. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Sweetness control: If you prefer less sweet, reduce the added sweetener in the caramel or skip the extra drizzle when serving.
• Top for texture: Garnish the latte with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, crushed gluten-free caramel bits, or dairy-free whipped cream for extra flair.

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Best Matcha Latte Pairings

• Gluten-free biscotti: Serve the latte alongside almond flour biscotti or gluten-free shortbread to dip and complement the caramel-matcha flavor.
• Fresh fruit bowl: Offer a side of sliced strawberries or kiwi—bright and slightly tart to balance the drink’s richness.
• Dairy-free baked goods: Pair with a vegan walnut-banana muffin or gluten-free oatmeal cookie for a cozy café-style snack combo.
• Sparkling mineral water: A chilled glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime cleanses the palate between sweet sips.
• Dark chocolate square: A single piece of 70 %+ dairy-free dark chocolate underscores the caramel notes and keeps the pairing luxe and simple.
• Herbal mint tea: After finishing the latte, sip a mint or spearmint herbal tea to ease into calm and full satisfaction.

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When to Make a Matcha Latte

• Weekend brunch: Serve this vegan salted caramel matcha latte alongside your brunch spread to offer guests a beverage they won’t expect—but will remember.
• Afternoon pick-me-up: Keep a jar of the vegan caramel sauce ready and whip up this latte mid-afternoon for a plant-based energy boost.
• Vegan or gluten-free gathering: If you’re hosting friends with varied diets, this drink aligns with both vegan and gluten-free restrictions while feeling indulgent.
• Holiday cozy night in: On cooler evenings, serve the warm version with a cozy throw blanket, playlist, and maybe a vegan dessert for a full treat experience.
• Café-style at home: Turn your kitchen into your favorite café by making this latte for yourself and a friend—complete with small pastries and good conversation.
• Meal-prep treat stash: Prepare the caramel sauce ahead, and have the matcha latte recipe printed or bookmarked for when you need a quick, styled beverage that aligns with your plant-based/gluten-free lifestyle.

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines