Matcha has quickly become a staple in many people’s daily routines - from the morning latte to the smoothie on the go. But one area where matcha is still relatively new is in cocktails and mocktails. With its unique flavor, vibrant green color, and impressive health benefits, matcha is the perfect ingredient for creating exciting drinks - with or without alcohol.

In this guide, we’ll show you why matcha works so well in drinks, how to use Zenzi Matcha in mixology, and share three delicious recipes that work beautifully both as cocktails and as refreshing mocktails. Perfect for dinner parties, after-work gatherings, or simply when you want a non-alcoholic drink that feels modern, indulgent, and health-conscious.

Why Matcha in Drinks?

The combination of matcha and cocktails/mocktails is no coincidence. Matcha brings unique qualities to any glass:

Flavor – Matcha has a naturally umami-rich, slightly grassy yet sweet flavor profile that adds depth. It works just as well with fruity and citrus-forward drinks as it does with more bitter elements.

Color – Its bold green shade makes every drink a showstopper. It’s naturally Instagram-friendly and elevates presentation instantly.

Energy – Unlike coffee, matcha delivers calm, sustained energy without the crash. This makes mocktails with matcha the perfect alcohol-free option that still feels energizing.

Health – Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids, matcha turns a cocktail or mocktail into a more mindful, nourishing choice.

How to Use Matcha in Cocktails and Mocktails

To get the most out of matcha in drinks, keep these essentials in mind:

• Always use high-quality matcha. Premium ceremonial grade, like Zenzi Matcha, makes all the difference in taste and color.
• Sift the powder before whisking or shaking to avoid clumps.
• Whisk the matcha with warm water before mixing it into the drink. This creates a smooth base.
• Use the right tools - a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a cocktail shaker works perfectly. Find everything you need in our [Matcha Accessories].
• All recipes can be made as cocktails or mocktails - just swap the alcohol for sparkling water, tonic, or non-alcoholic spirits.

Zenzi Matcha Mojito

A fresh, green twist on the classic mojito - perfect for summer evenings or whenever you want to surprise guests with something new.

Ingredients (1 glass):

• 2 tsp Zenzi Matcha Powder
• 20 ml warm water (70–80°C / 160–175°F)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tsp raw sugar or agave syrup
• Fresh mint (about 8 leaves)
• 50 ml white rum (leave out for mocktail)
• Ice cubes
• Sparkling water

Instructions:

1. Whisk Zenzi Matcha with warm water into a smooth base.
2. Add mint and sugar/agave to a glass and muddle lightly to release aromas.
3. Pour in lime juice and the prepared matcha.
4. Fill the glass with ice, add rum (or more sparkling water for a mocktail), and stir.
5. Garnish with fresh mint and a lime wedge.

✨ Tip: Serve in a tall glass with plenty of ice for a refreshing summer drink.

Sparkling Matcha Gin & Tonic

A sophisticated cocktail combining the crisp bitterness of tonic with the umami richness of matcha and a bubbly finish.

Ingredients (1 glass):

• 1 ½ tsp Zenzi Matcha Powder
• 20 ml warm water
• 40 ml gin (skip for mocktail)
• Tonic water
• Slice of cucumber or lemon
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Whisk Zenzi Matcha with warm water into a smooth base.
2. Fill a glass with ice and add gin.
3. Pour in the matcha base.
4. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with cucumber or lemon.

Mocktail version: Replace gin with extra tonic or non-alcoholic gin.

Matcha Margarita – Zenzi Style

A lively, citrus-forward cocktail with a matcha twist. Perfect for after-work drinks or festive dinners.

Ingredients (1 glass):

• 2 tsp Zenzi Matcha Powder
• 20 ml warm water
• 40 ml tequila (skip for mocktail)
• 20 ml triple sec or orange liqueur (skip for mocktail)
• 30 ml fresh lime juice
• 10 ml agave syrup or honey
• Ice cubes
• Salt and lime wedge for the rim

Instructions:

1. Whisk Zenzi Matcha with warm water until smooth.
2. Prepare the glass by rubbing the rim with lime and dipping it in salt.
3. Add matcha, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake well.
4. Strain into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Mocktail version: Skip tequila and triple sec. Replace with sparkling water and a splash of orange juice.

Tips for Creating Your Own Matcha Drinks

Once you’ve tried our recipes, you can start experimenting:

• Balance matcha with acidity and sweetness – lime, lemon, or grapefruit for freshness; honey, agave, or sugar for sweetness.
• Add spice – ginger, chili, or fresh herbs like basil pair beautifully with matcha.
• Play with bubbles – soda, tonic, or non-alcoholic sparkling wine highlight its refreshing notes.
• Presentation matters – let matcha’s vivid green shine in clear glassware.
  

Matcha - The Perfect Drink for Every Occasion

Whether you prefer cocktails or mocktails, matcha is a true game changer. It’s perfect for impressing guests, creating healthier alternatives to classic drinks, or treating yourself to something luxurious.

With Zenzi Matcha, you’ll always enjoy the highest quality powder - ideal not only for drinks but also for smoothies, baking, and traditional matcha lattes.