Probiotic Banana Matcha Latte with Ama Koji

5 from 1 vote

Probiotic Banana Matcha Latte with Ama Koji

A functional, wellness-focused twist on the viral banana matcha latte. Naturally sweetened with gut-healthy fermented ama koji (amazake paste) and topped with a show-stopping caramelized banana skewer garnish.

Prep Time10

Cook Time2

Total Time12

Course: Beverage, Drinks

Cuisine: Japanese fusion

Keyword: ama koji recipe, amazake matcha, banana matcha latte, beauty food latte, probiotic matcha drink

Servings: glass

Calories: 290kcal

Ingredients

For the Latte Base

1 pc Banana (ripe)
¾ to 1 cup Milk (whole milk, oat milk, or almond milk)
1 to 2 tbsp Ama Koji Paste (amazake paste; adjust to preferred sweetness)
1 tsp Matcha Powder (Ceremonial Grade )
2 tbsp Hot Water (approximately 70°C / 158°F)
Ice Cubes

For the Brûléed Garnish

3-5 slices Banana
1 tsp Granulated Sugar (for caramelizing)

Instructions

Blend the Base: Reserve 3 slices of banana for the garnish. In a tall cup or blender, combine the remaining banana, milk, and ama koji paste. Blend with a hand immersion mixer or standard blender until completely smooth and frothy.
Sift the Matcha: Sift 1 teaspoon of ceremonial grade matcha powder through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove any lumps.
Whisk the Matcha: Pour 2 tablespoons of hot water (70°C) over the sifted matcha. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen), whisk vigorously in a rapid "W" or "M" motion until a thick, beautiful froth forms.
Brûlée the Garnish: Place the 3 reserved banana slices on a heat-proof plate. Sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top. Use a kitchen torch burner to carefully caramelize the sugar into a glassy, golden crust. Thread the slices onto a small bamboo skewer. (Alternative: Sear sugar-side down in a hot non-stick skillet for 1–2 minutes).
Assemble: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes. Pour the blended koji-banana milk over the ice, leaving an inch of room at the top. Slowly pour the whisked matcha directly over the ice to create a stunning, distinct green layer.
Garnish & Serve: Rest the caramelized banana skewer across the rim of the glass. Stir before drinking to combine the layers.

Notes

Sweetness Adjustments: Ama koji delivers a highly refined, subtle sweetness. If you prefer an incredibly sweet cafe-style drink, increase the ama koji paste to 3 tablespoons, or add a touch of maple syrup to the blender.
Temperature Control: Keeping the water at 70°C prevents the premium matcha from scorching, preserving its vibrant green color and smooth flavor profile.

Nutrition