The first sip of my Vegan Matcha Jelly Drink takes me straight to the bustling streets of Japan, where vibrant tea shops serve up delightful treats that are as refreshing as they are beautiful. This is my twist on a classic Japanese jelly drink, combining smooth matcha, creamy plant milk, and chewy jelly pieces for a unique bubble tea alternative that’s perfect any time of day. This Matcha Jelly Drink recipe isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also quick to whip up and completely vegan and gluten-free, making it an ideal pick-me-up for anyone looking to break free from fast food. I promise this refreshing beverage will bring a touch of magic to your kitchen! Curious about how easy it is to make this delightful drink? Let’s dive in!

How easy is this matcha jelly drink?

Simplicity in every step: This Matcha Jelly Drink recipe is a breeze to create, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal skill.
Flavor explosion awaits: The rich green matcha perfectly harmonizes with sweet maple syrup and creamy plant milk to create a dreamy treat.
Health-conscious choice: Vegan and gluten-free, this drink is both refreshing and light, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatility in flavors: Feel free to switch up the matcha with fruit purees or cocoa for a delicious twist, just like my Cottage Cheese Flatbread recipe where creativity thrives!
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this unique yet simple alternative to bubble tea that everyone will love!

Matcha Jelly Drink Ingredients

For the Jelly

Agar Powder – This powerful gelling agent gives your jelly that delightful wobble; substitute with gelatin for a non-vegan treat, but then it’s no longer vegan!
Water – The essential base for dissolving agar and matcha; using filtered water enhances the flavor.
Matcha Powder – The star of the show, providing that rich green hue and invigorating flavor; opt for a high-quality matcha for the best results.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens the jelly beautifully; feel free to switch it out with honey for a non-vegan alternative.

For the Drink

Plant Milk – The creamy companion to your matcha jelly, offering a dairy-free experience; almond, oat, or coconut milk are all fantastic options.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm depth of flavor; if you want a richer taste, try using a vanilla bean instead!

This Matcha Jelly Drink recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also leaves you feeling refreshed and satisfied!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Jelly Drink Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Matcha Jelly
Start by boiling 3 cups of filtered water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and whisk in 2 tablespoons of agar powder, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until fully dissolved and the mixture is clear. Then, incorporate 3 tablespoons of maple syrup into the agar mixture and remove the saucepan from heat.

Step 2: Combine Matcha
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of high-quality matcha powder with ½ cup of warm water until smooth and well mixed. Gradually pour this matcha mixture into the agar mixture, using a whisk to blend uniformly. The vibrant color should double as the two mixtures combine, resulting in a rich green jelly mixture.

Step 3: Set Jelly
Pour the combined mixture into an eighth sheet pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread out. Let it cool for about 5 minutes at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour or until the jelly is firm and set, with a smooth surface that jiggles slightly when moved.

Step 4: Cut Jelly
Once the jelly has fully set, remove it from the refrigerator and carefully cut it into small cubes using a sharp, clean knife. Gently lift the jelly pieces from the pan using a spatula and set them aside. Ensure each piece is bite-sized for the perfect addition to your Matcha Jelly Drink.

Step 5: Assemble Drink
In a tall glass, start by layering the matcha jelly cubes at the bottom. Next, pour in 1 cup of your preferred plant milk, creating a beautiful contrast with the green jelly. To finish, add a dollop of whisked matcha on top and sweeten with additional maple syrup if desired. Optionally, garnish with a pinch of salt and fresh vanilla bean for an aromatic finish.

Matcha Jelly Drink Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this matcha jelly drink recipe and customize it to suit your taste!

Cocoa Twist: Switch out matcha for high-quality cocoa powder for a chocolatey delight; whisk well to combine.
Fruit Fusion: Blend in fresh fruit purees like strawberry or mango for a fruity version of your jelly. This adds a burst of flavor that brightens every sip!
Lavender Infusion: Add dried culinary lavender to the agarmixture for a floral note; let it steep before straining. You’ll enjoy a delicate lavender aroma that makes each sip feel like a dream.
Creamy Cashew: Swap plant milk for rich cashew milk for an ultra-creamy texture; your drink will become an indulgent treat!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the sweetened matcha; this unexpected twist will awaken your senses.
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle some toasted almond or hazelnut oil into your drink for a nutty undertone that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Sweetener Alteration: Trade maple syrup for agave nectar or a sugar alternative to tailor the sweetness to your liking without losing flavor.
Boba Alternative: Elevate the drink experience by adding tapioca pearls for that classic bubble tea feel, creating an exciting chewy texture that’s irresistible!

These variations will keep your matcha jelly drink fresh and exciting, just like the delightful recipes I’ve shared before, like my dreamy Pecan Cream Pie or the hearty Stracotto! Enjoy the wonderful journey of flavors!

Expert Tips for the Best Matcha Jelly Drink

Quality Matcha Matters: Use high-grade matcha powder for a vibrant color and richer flavor. Avoid culinary-grade matcha, which can taste bitter.
Constant Whisking: Always whisk continuously when dissolving agar powder to prevent lumps. This ensures a silky-smooth jelly without any clumping.
Cooling Time: Allow the jelly to cool completely before cutting. This guarantees a better texture and prevents the jelly from becoming mushy.
Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the mixture before pouring into the pan. Adjust the sweetness level by adding more maple syrup as needed, ensuring it’s just right for you.
Storage Properly: Store any leftover jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and texture in your Matcha Jelly Drink recipe.

Make Ahead Options

This Vegan Matcha Jelly Drink recipe is an absolute gem for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the matcha jelly up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps of boiling water, dissolving the agar powder, and mixing in the matcha. Allow the jelly to set completely in the refrigerator, then cut it into cubes and store them in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the prepped jelly cubes with your choice of chilled plant milk, top with whisked matcha, and add a drizzle of maple syrup. Not only does this method save precious time during the week, but your Vegan Matcha Jelly Drink will be just as delightful as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Vegan Matcha Jelly Drink

Pair this delightful beverage with complementary flavors and textures that enhance your refreshing experience.

Chilled Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast, balancing the earthy matcha with refreshing bursts of flavor.
Coconut Sticky Rice: The chewy, sweet rice pairs beautifully with the jelly drink, creating a satisfying texture and tropical essence.
Savory Edamame: Lightly salted edamame adds a delightful savory crunch, perfect for snacking alongside your drink.
Japanese Green Tea Cookies: These subtly sweet, tea-infused cookies echo the matcha’s flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
Toasted Rice Cakes: Crisp and airy, they create a nice textural contrast with the creamy plant milk, making each sip more enjoyable.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy drink complements the creamy drink beautifully, cleansing the palate in between sips.
Mochi Ice Cream: Creamy and chewy, these treats make for a nostalgic pairing while keeping with the Japanese theme. Enjoy the contrasting coolness against the smoothness of your jelly drink.
Sweet Potato Chips: Their natural sweetness and crunchiness provide an excellent texture contrast, making your snack time even more delightful!
Lychee Sorbet: A refreshing, fruity sorbet can act as a light dessert to wrap up your meal, keeping things bright and vibrant.

Storage Tips for Matcha Jelly Drink

Fridge: Store any leftover matcha jelly cubes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Freezer: If you’d like to prolong the shelf life of your matcha jelly, freeze the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best texture, enjoy the jelly cubes chilled or at room temperature rather than reheating, as heat may alter their delightful consistency.

Serving Suggestion: When ready to use frozen jelly cubes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then layer in your drink for a refreshing matcha jelly experience!

Matcha Jelly Drink Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right matcha powder?
Absolutely! Selecting a high-quality matcha powder is crucial for achieving the best flavor and vibrant color. Look for ceremonial grade matcha, which is finer and has a sweeter taste, as opposed to culinary grade, which can be more bitter. When you open the package, it should have a bright green hue and no lumps; this indicates freshness.

How long can I store leftover matcha jelly in the fridge?
Very! You can store any leftover matcha jelly cubes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them sealed to maintain their delightful texture and flavor. If you notice the jelly starting to lose its firmness or getting dark spots, it’s time to dispose of it.

Can I freeze matcha jelly, and how do I do it?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze matcha jelly to extend its shelf life. To do this, cut the jelly into cubes and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the jelly cubes into an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

What if my agar didn’t dissolve properly?
No worries! If your agar powder didn’t dissolve completely and you ended up with clumps, place the mixture back on low heat and whisk continuously until it smooths out. Ensure adequate simmering time—about 5 minutes—to fully activate the gelling properties. Just remember to mix thoroughly!

Is this matcha jelly drink safe for people with allergies?
Of course! This Matcha Jelly Drink is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for individuals with dietary restrictions. However, it’s essential to ensure that the ingredients you choose, like plant milk and sweeteners, are free from allergens you or your guests might be sensitive to, such as nuts or soy. Always read labels carefully!

Can pets consume matcha jelly?
Definitely not! While matcha is safe for humans, it contains caffeine and should not be given to pets. Always avoid sharing your delectable matcha jelly drink with your furry friends to keep them safe and sound.