What can I substitute for matcha powder?
Running low on matcha powder? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About matcha powder
Matcha powder is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. It has a vivid green colour and a distinctive flavour profile that is grassy, vegetal, slightly bitter, and umami-rich. In cooking, it is used to flavour and colour baked goods, desserts, beverages, and sauces.
Best substitute
green tea powder
Finely ground green tea (not matcha-grade) can stand in for matcha, though it is typically more bitter and less vibrant in colour. Grind standard green tea leaves to a fine powder if a dedicated product is unavailable.
Use 1 tsp for every 1 tsp of matcha, but expect a more bitter flavour and duller colour
bakingbeveragesdessertsNot suitable for: colour-critical recipes
Alternative
spirulina powder
Spirulina is a blue-green algae powder that can replicate matcha's vivid green colour in recipes. It has a strong, distinctly marine flavour, so it works best in small amounts or when combined with a mild green tea for flavour. Use primarily when colour is the priority.
Use ¼ tsp for every 1 tsp of matcha — combine with a drop of vanilla or green tea to balance the flavour
colour matchingsmoothiesNot suitable for: flavour replicationNot suitable for: traditional tea
Alternative
hojicha powder
Hojicha is a roasted Japanese green tea ground into a powder, offering a similar fine texture and Japanese tea character to matcha. Its flavour is toasty, caramel-like, and less bitter, making it a good swap where a roasted note is acceptable. Colour will be brown rather than green.
What is matcha powder called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | matcha powder |
| JP | 抹茶 (maccha) |
| United Kingdom | matcha powder |
| United States | matcha powder |
Common names for matcha powder
macchagreen tea powderJapanese green tea powderpowdered matcha