Matcha Yuzu Sparkler

Matcha Yuzu Sparkler

This matcha yuzu sparkler is crisp, citrusy, and perfect when you want something lighter than a latte. You whisk matcha as a small concentrate, then top with yuzu, ice, and sparkling water.

Ingredients

Ingredient tip: Using matcha powder for this recipe helps keep flavour smooth and balanced in this recipe.

• 2g matcha powder (about 1 teaspoon)
• 60ml hot water (70 to 80°C)
• 20ml yuzu juice (or yuzu concentrate, diluted to taste)
• 5ml honey or agave (optional)
• 120ml chilled sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Thin lemon or yuzu slice, to garnish

Method

1. Sift the matcha into a bowl or shaker cup.
2. Whisk with hot water until smooth and lightly frothy.
3. Add yuzu juice and optional honey or agave, then stir until dissolved.
4. Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the matcha-yuzu mix.
5. Top with sparkling water and stir gently once.
6. Garnish and serve immediately.

What is the best yuzu option in the UK?

Bottled yuzu juice from Japanese grocers gives the cleanest flavour, but yuzu concentrate works if you dilute carefully. Start small, taste, then adjust. Too much concentrate can make the drink harsh and overly sweet.

How do you stop sparkling matcha from tasting flat?

Use very cold sparkling water, add it last, and avoid over-stirring. If you whisk matcha properly before building the drink, you need only one gentle stir after topping.

Can you batch this recipe?

You can pre-mix the matcha and yuzu base for two servings and keep it chilled for a few hours. Add sparkling water only at serving time so carbonation stays crisp.

Serving tips

For a less intense drink, reduce matcha to 1.5g. For a sweeter café-style version, add 10ml simple syrup instead of honey.

If you want a creamier variation, use this as a base and top with 40ml cold oat milk before adding sparkling water.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this without yuzu?

Yes. Lemon and a small amount of mandarin juice can mimic the same bright profile.

Is this recipe high in caffeine?

It is similar to a standard single matcha serving, usually moderate compared with coffee.

Can I use soda water instead of sparkling mineral water?

Yes. Both work, though mineral water can taste slightly rounder.

Why is my drink bitter?

Usually from boiling water, too much matcha, or overly concentrated yuzu syrup.