Green Tea Milk Spread

This Green Tea Milk Spread is a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet condiment infused with the earthy, umami flavors of matcha green tea. With a silky smooth texture, it’s perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or drizzling over pancakes. Inspired by traditional Japanese milk jams, this matcha-infused spread offers a delightful balance of sweetness and deep green tea essence, making it a unique addition to your breakfast or dessert routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smooth and Velvety – A thick, creamy texture that spreads beautifully.
• Perfect for Breakfast and Desserts – Great on toast, pancakes, waffles, or as a filling for pastries.
• Customizable Sweetness and Strength – Adjust the matcha intensity and sugar levels to your taste.
• Easy to Make – Requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
• Dairy and Non-Dairy Options – Can be made with plant-based milk and coconut cream for a vegan version.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Matcha green tea powder (sifted, for smoothness)
• Hot boiled water (to dissolve the matcha)
• Granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Dry milk powder or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Whole milk or non-dairy alternative (see note below)
• Heavy cream or canned coconut milk (for richness)

Directions

1. Prepare the Matcha Base

1. In a heat-safe bowl, add sifted matcha powder.
2. Slowly pour in hot water, stirring until the matcha is completely dissolved.
3. Stir in sugar and milk powder (or cornstarch) until fully incorporated.

2. Heat the Milk Mixture

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk and heavy cream.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

3. Combine and Cook

1. Slowly pour the matcha mixture through a fine sieve into the saucepan to remove any lumps.
2. Whisk continuously as the mixture heats, ensuring smooth consistency.
3. Reduce heat to low-medium and cook for about 20 minutes, whisking periodically, until the mixture thickens and reduces by half.

4. Test for Thickness

1. Use a spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan—if a clear line remains, the spread is thick enough.
2. If not, continue to cook and whisk until it reaches the desired consistency.

5. Cool and Store

1. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Pour into a clean glass jar and refrigerate.
3. The spread will thicken further as it cools.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About ½ cup (125ml)
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ways to Use Green Tea Milk Spread

• Toast & Pastries – Spread on bagels, croissants, or brioche.
• Pancakes & Waffles – Drizzle over fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles.
• Dessert Filling – Use in cakes, crepes, or mochi.
• Tea Lattes – Stir into hot milk or oat milk for a quick matcha latte.
• Dipping Sauce – Pair with shortbread cookies or fruit.

Variations

• Vegan Version – Use plant-based milk and coconut cream instead of dairy.
• Stronger Matcha Flavor – Increase matcha to 2½ teaspoons for a bolder taste.
• Sweeter Spread – Add an extra teaspoon of sugar for a more dessert-like flavor.
• Honey Matcha Spread – Substitute sugar with 1½ teaspoons of honey for natural sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight jar for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may separate.
• Reheating: Gently warm over low heat, stirring until smooth.

FAQs

Can I use culinary-grade matcha instead of ceremonial?

Yes! Culinary-grade matcha works well, but it has a slightly stronger and more bitter taste.

Why is my spread not thickening?

It may need more cooking time. Keep whisking over low heat until it reduces properly.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes! Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! Try mixing in vanilla extract, cinnamon, or white chocolate for a twist.

What type of non-dairy milk works best?

Use a thicker non-dairy milk like oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk for a creamier texture.

Can I use this as a matcha custard?

Yes! It works well as a pastry cream filling for cakes and tarts.

How do I make the spread smoother?

Make sure to sift the matcha powder and strain the mixture before cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just increase all ingredients proportionally and cook a bit longer.

Conclusion

This Green Tea Milk Spread is an easy, flavorful, and versatile addition to your kitchen. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, drizzling it over pancakes, or using it as a filling, its creamy, matcha-infused taste will add a delicious touch to your breakfast and desserts. Try this recipe today and elevate your morning routine!