
Nothing cools me off like a chilled glass of matcha green tea when summer’s blazing. It’s bright, gives a clean buzz, and just feels so light. I usually fix it up for outdoor lunches or reach for a glass when the heat just keeps turning up in the afternoon.
I whipped this up at a lazy Sunday brunch and, no joke, my friends wouldn’t stop talking about how cool and tasty it was—especially with the mint and lime bobbing on top. It’s been my go-to summer drink ever since.
Refreshing Ingredients
- Ice cubes: keep things super cold if you’ve got clear ice, even better for the look
- Maple syrup: sweeten things naturally tweak the amount to match your taste real maple gives that mellow flavor
- Fresh mint leaves: toss in for a cool, herby kick grab leaves that are perky and green
- Apple: slice up thin for a gentle sweet note choose a tart crunch like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
- Lime: rounds make it pop in flavor and color pick juicy, thin-skinned ones
- Cold water: this is your refreshing base filtered is best—you’ll taste the difference
- Matcha green tea powder: brings that earthy vibe and natural pick-me-up get the bright green kind for max flavor
Simple Step-by-Step
- Add Ice and Pour:
- Once everything’s in, scoop in plenty of ice. Give it a gentle swirl. Fill up glasses, making sure everyone gets fruity bits and mint. If you fancy, drop in extra slices of lime or apple. Sip right away while it’s extra cool.
- Add Mint and Fruit:
- Toss in mint leaves next, giving them a little smack in your hand so the smell really comes out. Slide in your apple and lime pieces too.
- Mix in a Pitcher:
- Pour your sweetened matcha into a big pitcher. Add cold water up to about three quarts but leave room for your extras. Got a small pitcher? Just make it in batches.
- Sweeten It Up:
- Drizzle in your maple syrup while the matcha is still cozy and warm. Stir so it blends in perfectly and won’t leave any sweet spots or sour surprises.
- Whisk the Matcha:
- Pop the matcha powder in a bowl. Pour in just a splash of hot (not boiling) water—about a third of a cup. Whisk like crazy in a zigzag until it’s nice and foamy and everything’s smooth with no lumps left.

I can’t get enough of matcha’s smooth green color and that mellow, grassy taste. It feels almost fancy to drink. My youngest always wants to take over the whisking—and he loves stuffing his cup with extra mint for a punch.
How to Store It
It tastes best if you drink it right away since the green color and zing fade if it sits too long. If you have to make it ahead for guests, stash just the matcha part in the fridge and toss in fruit, mint, and ice when it’s party time.
Swaps and Tweaks
Swap apple for a handful of berries like strawberry or blueberry if you want. Try some orange or grapefruit rounds instead of the limes for a citrusy twist. Ditch the syrup for stevia or monk fruit to cut sugar.

How to Serve
Pour it tall for parties in the backyard or fill up your thermos for a picnic. Goes great with snacks or even some sushi. Toss a couple fresh edible blossoms on top and it’ll be the star of brunch.
Background and Meaning
For ages, matcha has been a big deal in Japanese tea get-togethers because it cleanses and recharges. Giving it the cold treatment with herbs and fresh fruit turns this classic ritual into the coolest, most refreshing summer sip.
Recipe FAQs
- → What other fruits swap nicely for apple?
Totally! Try tossing in blueberries or some strawberries. They add fresh flavors and switch things up.
- → Which kind of matcha should I grab?
Pick culinary or ceremonial grade. It's all about whether you like your green tea strong or more mellow.
- → How can I get rid of matcha clumps?
Give the matcha powder a good whisk with hot water until it's all smooth, then pour it into cold stuff.
- → Can I skip adding sugar to this drink?
No problem! Go for stevia, monk fruit, or skip sweeteners for a lighter sip if you’d like.
- → Can I mix up this drink ahead of time?
For sure. Make the matcha base and chill it, but wait to drop in fresh mint and fruit till you pour it up so everything tastes crisp.
- → What’s the nicest way to serve it?
Fill tall glasses up with ice, top with fruits and mint, and it looks super inviting.