OVERVIEW
Ube matcha is quickly becoming one of the most searched alternatives to traditional matcha powder — combining vibrant colour, smooth flavour and a more approachable drinking experience.
In this guide, we break down what ube really is, what is inside matcha, what matcha tastes like, and how to make a matcha latte using ube powder. Whether you’re exploring caffeine-free alternatives or simply looking for a better-tasting daily ritual, this guide gives you a clear starting point.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
If traditional matcha has never quite clicked for you, you’re not alone.
The earthy intensity, the grassy bitterness, the hit of caffeine — for some, it works. For others, it’s something they try once… and never return to again.
That’s exactly why Ube Matcha is gaining momentum.
It keeps the ritual, the depth and the visual experience of matcha powder, but softens it into something far more enjoyable and easier to come back to daily.
And importantly, our Ube Matcha is completely caffeine free — which changes everything.
If you’ve ever searched what does matcha taste like or does matcha have caffeine, you’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ll explore what ube really is, what is inside matcha, what does matcha taste like, and how to make a matcha latte.
What is Ube?
Ube, often called ube purple yam or ube purple sweet potato, is a vibrant root vegetable traditionally used in Filipino desserts like ube cake, pastries and ice cream.
But describing it as just a “yam” doesn’t quite do it justice.
Ube has a naturally smooth, slightly nutty and subtly sweet profile. There’s a soft vanilla-like warmth to it, paired with a creamy depth that feels indulgent without being overpowering. It’s why ube desserts feel rich without needing excessive sugar — the flavour already does a lot of the work.
When turned into ube powder, that experience becomes incredibly versatile. The powder captures both the colour and the flavour, making it easy to use in drinks, baking and everyday recipes.
Unlike artificial flavourings, real ube powder brings depth. It doesn’t just taste sweet, it has layers. And that’s what makes it so effective when paired with something like matcha powder.
What Makes Ube Matcha Different?
Traditional matcha powder is made from finely ground green tea leaves.
Inside matcha, you’ll typically find:
- Natural caffeine
- L-theanine (an amino acid)
- Chlorophyll (which gives it its green colour)
- Antioxidants such as catechins
This is why people often ask: does matcha have caffeine?
The answer is yes. Matcha contains caffeine, although it’s released more gradually compared to coffee due to the presence of L-theanine.
This combination is what gives matcha its well-known balance of alertness and calm.
What Does Matcha Taste Like?
If you’ve ever wondered what does matcha taste like, the answer depends on the quality — but traditionally, it’s known for: earthy notes, grassy undertones, a slightly bitter finish and a rich, umami depth.
For some, this is what makes matcha appealing. For others, it’s exactly what makes it difficult to enjoy regularly.
This is where ube matcha changes the experience completely, replacing those sharper notes with a smoother, more rounded flavour profile.
What Does Ube Matcha Taste Like?
This is where most people are surprised.
Imagine:
- A creamy, smooth texture
- Subtle natural sweetness (not artificial)
- Light nutty undertones
- A soft, rounded finish
There’s no sharp bitterness. No grassy aftertaste.
It’s closer to something like an ube latte you’d order in a café, but cleaner, more balanced and easier to adjust to your taste.
The aroma plays a huge role too.
As soon as you mix it, there’s a gentle warmth. Slightly sweet, slightly toasted, with a comforting softness that makes you pause for a second before drinking it. It’s not overpowering, it’s inviting.
And then there’s the colour.
A deep, rich purple. Naturally vibrant. Not artificial or overly bright, but bold enough to feel different.
The colour isn’t just visual. It changes how the drink feels. It makes the process slower, more intentional. You notice it more. You engage with it more.
That’s why ube latte content performs so well — it’s not just about drinking something. It’s about experiencing it.
How to Make a Matcha Latte (Ube Version)
If you’re learning how to make a matcha latte, ube or purple yam is one of the easiest starting points. Traditionally, a matcha set (bowl and whisk) is used to prepare matcha, but it’s not required for this version. Here’s a clean way to make an ube latte at home:
Ingredients:
- 1–2 tsp ube powder
- 200ml milk (or plant-based alternative)
- Warm water or milk to mix
Method:
- Add your ube powder to a cup.
- Add a small amount of warm liquid and mix into a smooth paste.
- Heat and froth your milk separately.
- Pour over slowly and stir.
Optional:
Serve iced for a lighter version, or layer the drink for a more visual finish.
You can use a traditional matcha set if you want to elevate the process, but it’s not essential. The simplicity is part of the appeal.
Ways to Use Ube Powder
One of the biggest reasons ube is growing so quickly is its versatility. It doesn’t stop at an ube latte.
Ube powder can be used to:
- Make desserts like ube cake or pancakes
- Blend into smoothies for colour and flavour
- Add into yoghurt, oats or overnight recipes
- Create layered drinks with matcha powder or cacao
Because the flavour is naturally soft and adaptable, it works across formats. It doesn’t dominate — it supports.
That makes it easier to incorporate into everyday routines without it feeling repetitive.
Why Ube Matcha is Growing
Search interest around terms like:
- ube latte
- ube powder
- ube purple yam
- how to make matcha latte
is increasing rapidly. But it’s not just about trend cycles.
People are becoming more selective with what they actually enjoy consuming.
They don’t just want something that looks good — it has to taste good. It has to feel worth making. And ideally, it’s something they don’t get bored of after a week.
That’s where ube matcha stands out. It removes the friction that stops people sticking with traditional matcha. No bitterness. No adjustment period. No forcing it. Just something that feels easy to come back to.
Final Thoughts
Ube matcha isn’t trying to replace matcha.
It’s reimagining it.
By removing the bitterness and focusing on flavour, colour and ritual, it creates something entirely different — something more approachable, more versatile and more enjoyable.
If you’ve tried matcha before and it didn’t stick, this is a different experience altogether.
And that’s exactly why it’s growing.
Want to try an ube latte for yourself? Explore our Ritual Grade Ube Matcha Powder, along with the rest of our Ritual Grade coloured matcha collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does matcha have caffeine?
Yes, traditional matcha powder contains caffeine. However, ube matcha made without green tea is naturally caffeine free.
What is inside matcha?
Matcha contains ground green tea leaves, including caffeine, L-theanine, antioxidants and chlorophyll.
What does matcha taste like?
Matcha typically has an earthy, slightly bitter and grassy flavour with a rich, umami depth.
Can I make a matcha latte without a matcha set?
Yes. While a traditional matcha set can enhance the ritual, you can easily make a matcha latte using a spoon or handheld frother.
What is ube powder used for?
Ube powder can be used in drinks like ube lattes, as well as in baking such as ube cake, pancakes and desserts.
