Matcha Recipes

Iced Oolong Matcha Recipe

While Earl Grey iced matcha has become increasingly popular, this version uses a Japanese Koshun cultivar oolong, a tea known for its delicate grape, honey and floral notes.

Unlike Earl Grey, which carries the bold citrus aroma of bergamot, Koshun oolong brings a softer, more layered sweetness. When paired with freshly whisked matcha and milk, it creates a drink that feels rounded, fragrant and naturally balanced.

New to whisking matcha? Read our 5-step guide to making matcha, or use the matcha comparison chart to pick the right grade for iced drinks.

Jump to recipe
  • Prep time 2 min
  • Cook / cool 15 min
  • Total time 17 min
  • Servings 1

Easy

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Add 1 cup of water to a pot.
  2. Add 8g of oolong tea and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea leaves from the pot and transfer the oolong tea back into the pot.
  4. Add 1 cup of raw sugar to the pot and let the water heat until the sugar has dissolved.
  5. Transfer oolong syrup to a mason jar. Syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
  6. Add 4g of matcha powder to a tea bowl and add 40ml of milk. Whisk for 30 seconds.
  7. Fill a tall glass with ice and pour 30ml of oolong syrup into the glass.
  8. Add 100ml of milk to the glass.
  9. Pour whisked matcha over the top and serve.

Recommended for this recipe

Recipe questions

Can I use a different oolong tea?

Yes. Any lightly oxidised, floral oolong works well, but the Japanese Koshun cultivar gives this drink its signature grape and honey notes. Darker roasted oolongs will taste toastier and less floral.

How long does the oolong syrup keep?

Stored in a sealed jar in the fridge, the syrup keeps for up to 2 weeks. One batch makes enough for around 8 drinks.

Can I make it less sweet?

Absolutely. Use half the sugar for a lighter syrup, or reduce the syrup to 15 to 20ml per glass. The oolong flavour still carries through.

What grade of matcha works best?

A premium grade like HINOKA is ideal, as it is smooth enough to drink with milk while staying vibrant against the oolong syrup. See the matcha comparison chart to compare grades side by side.

Download the Made with Matcha eBook — free

Matcha powder is such a versatile ingredient that we've written a whole recipe book of amazing food, drinks and treats to try. Enter your email to receive your copy.

Download the Made with Matcha eBook — free

What are you looking for?