Matcha Made Simple: Benefits, Tips, and My Favorite Ways to Enjoy It

If you’re seeking a natural energy boost without the jitters or crashes often associated with coffee, matcha is my top recommendation. Packed with antioxidants, matcha’s Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) is one of the highest among the superfoods, making it a great way to fight cell-damaging free radicals. These antioxidants not only help reduce inflammation but can also support skin health and lower the risk of chronic diseases by preventing premature aging. The benefits are incredible… If you still need to be convinced or you’re looking for delicious ways to integrate matcha into your daily routine, keep reading! Of course, I have a brand recommendation for you as well: matcha.com. If you’re just getting into matcha, I recommend their Starter Kit! And don’t forget to use code ELISSA for a discount on your order!

1. Caffeine and Cortisol

Matcha provides steady energy with 35-70 mg of caffeine per cup, a gentler boost than coffee’s 95-200 mg. This makes it ideal for managing cortisol levels, as excessive caffeine can elevate cortisol all day. Thanks to L-theanine, matcha promotes focus, relaxation, and cognitive performance by increasing alpha brain waves.

2. Free of Mold and Mycotoxins

Mold and mycotoxins, common in non-organic coffee, are not a concern with premium, organic matcha. Its carefully cultivated, shaded, and harvested leaves ensure a cleaner, toxin-free option, making matcha a safer choice for reducing exposure to contaminants.

3. Weight Management 

You’ve likely heard of popular GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, but did you know matcha may naturally support similar pathways? GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates blood sugar, appetite, and metabolism, creating feelings of fullness. Studies show matcha can aid weight management by regulating blood sugar and boosting metabolism, thanks to compounds like EGCG, which enhance fat burning and fat oxidation, supporting weight loss and balanced blood sugar.

4. Detoxing

One lesser-known benefit of matcha is its ability to support natural detoxification processes in the body. Because matcha plants are grown in the shade, they produce more chlorophyll, which is responsible for the tea’s vibrant green color. Chlorophyll helps the body remove heavy metals and toxins… and you already know how I feel about daily detoxing! 

My Morning Matcha Latte Recipe

This simple recipe features the finest matcha.com Matcha, clean nut milk, and a touch of sweetness from vanilla stevia. It’s the perfect way to fuel your morning with focus and calm energy. I definitely recommend a bamboo whisk and strainer if you’re going to commit to a daily matcha! Use code ELISSA for a discount on your supplies!

Ingredients

1 packet of Matcha.com Matcha

1 cup of clean nut milk (almond or cashew recommended)

3-4 drops of vanilla stevia (adjust to taste)

Directions

1. Heat the milk: Warm the nut milk in a small saucepan over low heat or use a milk frother.

2. Prepare the Matcha: In a mug, whisk the Matcha powder with 2-3 tablespoons of hot water until smooth (a bamboo whisk or an electric whisk works great).

3. Combine: Pour the warm milk into the mug with the Matcha.

4. Sweeten: Add vanilla stevia, stir, and taste. Adjust sweetness if needed.

Elissa’s Matcha Bark

This recipe combines the earthy, vibrant notes of matcha with the rich, decadent taste of dark chocolate, creating a treat that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make.

Ingredients

1/2 cup coconut butter, softened but not melted
5 tablespoons almond flour
3 tablespoons powdered Monkfruit sugar
1 teaspoon organic matcha powder
1 cup chopped dark chocolate (I love Hu chocolate)

For the topping

1/4 teaspoon organic matcha powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 T cacao nibs
2 T crushed pistachios

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the coconut butter, almond flour, powdered Monkfruit sugar, and matcha powder. Place in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

2. While the matcha mixture is chilling, melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat.

3. Line a baking tin with parchment paper. Pour a thin layer of melted chocolate into the pan – just enough to coat the bottom. Put the whole tin into the freezer to allow the chocolate to cool slightly. It should be totally frozen, but it should no longer be runny in the pan.

4. Mold the matcha mixture on top of the chocolate layer. You want this to be about half an inch thick – this will be your middle layer of the bark.

5. Pour the remaining melted chocolate on top. Sprinkle with crushed pistachios, cacao nibs, and sea salt flakes. Place back in the freezer for an hour.

6. Remove from the freezer, dust with matcha, cut into pieces, and serve! 

Elissa’s Favorite Matcha Chia Pudding

Loaded with fiber to keep you satiated and regular plus a touch of matcha for a gentle caffeine boost and antioxidants, this breakfast option is both delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prep the night before, making it a hassle-free morning meal solution.

Ingredients

1/4 cup + 1 T organic chia seeds

1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (I like MALK, Elmhurst, or Three Trees)

2 T plain coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 T organic maple syrup

1-2 tsp organic matcha powder

Directions

1. Divide the chia seeds between two small mason jars.
2. Divide the milk, yogurt, vanilla, maple syrup, and matcha between the jars.
3. Close the lids tightly and shake the jars/containers for 10-20 seconds. 
4. Place in the fridge to set for 1 hour. 
5. After one hour, give the matcha chia pudding another good shake and place back in the fridge for another hour at minimum. 
6. Once chilled and thickened into a pudding consistency, top with fresh berries and enjoy!

Whether you’re seeking better energy, clearer skin, or a little metabolic support, matcha is an easy addition to elevate your wellness routine. Be sure to source organic matcha with a vibrant, deep green color—this hue indicates a higher chlorophyll and antioxidant content, which maximizes the tea’s health benefits. For a trusted brand, my top recommendation is matcha.com!

For more fun and creative recipes to match any mood or season, explore Matcha.com‘s Matcha Recipe Library! From vibrant lattes to indulgent desserts, you can find inspo for your next matcha treat here.