Copycat Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino Recipe

A refreshing swirl of matcha, strawberry cream, and chilled summer joy

There’s something almost hypnotic about the way the layers of a Starbucks Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino settle into the cup. The vibrant green matcha at the base. The soft pink strawberry cloud resting on top. That slow, creamy melt as the layers begin to swirl together. If you’ve ever stared into one before taking your first sip, you know what I mean.

This copycat version brings that two-toned beauty into your own blender, using everyday ingredients and a few easy tricks to recreate the color, texture, and flavor of the original. Whether you’re a matcha fan, a strawberry lover, or just someone who appreciates a photogenic drink, this one is worth making on repeat. Especially when the real thing is seasonal and can vanish without warning.

How to make the Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino

To get the Strato effect at home, you’ll blend your matcha base first, then whip together a quick strawberry cold foam. Keep the two layers separate until pouring into the glass so the pink cloud gently floats on top. The visual contrast is just as important as the flavor balance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 290 per serving

Ingredients, instructions and tips

Matcha Frappuccino Base

• 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
• 1 cup ice

Instructions:

1. Add milk, matcha powder, syrup, and ice into a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth and frothy.
3. Pour into the bottom of a tall glass and place in the fridge while you prepare the foam.

Strawberry Cold Foam

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or coconut cream)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 tablespoon strawberry purée (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla syrup

Instructions:

1. In a frothing pitcher or small bowl, combine cream, milk, strawberry purée, and vanilla syrup.
2. Use a milk frother or electric whisk to whip until light and fluffy. You want it thick enough to sit on top of the matcha layer.

To assemble:
Gently spoon or pour the strawberry foam over the matcha base. Do not stir. Let the drink settle so the layers stay separated as long as possible. Serve with a straw and sip slowly as the colors melt together.

Tips:

• Use ceremonial-grade matcha for a smoother, richer taste.
• For a thicker drink, add more ice or freeze your milk beforehand.
• If you like it sweeter, add an extra pump of vanilla syrup to the base.

What to serve with the drink

This copycat Strawberry Matcha Strato pairs beautifully with light summer treats. Think lemon scones, almond biscotti, or vanilla shortbread cookies. It’s also perfect on its own as a mid-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon cooldown. For a full café-at-home vibe, serve it next to a fruit bowl or a fresh spinach and feta wrap.

Ingredient substitutes

1. Matcha Powder
   Original Ingredient: Matcha green tea powder

Substitutes:

• Green Tea Bags: Brew strong green tea and cool it before blending (less vibrant but still tasty).
• Spinach and Mint: For a naturally green, caffeine-free base, blend spinach with a few mint leaves and milk.

2. Milk
   Original Ingredient: Dairy milk

Substitutes:

• Almond Milk: Light and slightly nutty, a good neutral base.
• Oat Milk: Extra creamy and naturally sweet.
• Coconut Milk: Adds tropical undertones and a richer mouthfeel.

3. Strawberry Purée
   Original Ingredient: Store-bought strawberry purée

Substitutes:

• Fresh Strawberries: Blend with a splash of lemon juice and a bit of sugar.
• Strawberry Jam: Thinned with warm water to make a quick purée.
• Raspberry Purée: For a tangier twist on the foam.

4. Heavy Cream
   Original Ingredient: Heavy cream

Substitutes:

• Coconut Cream: Great for vegans or a dairy-free foam.
• Whipped Tofu: Silken tofu blended with sweetener and purée makes a light but stable foam.

5. Vanilla Syrup
   Original Ingredient: Starbucks-style vanilla syrup

Substitutes:

• Homemade Syrup: Simmer equal parts sugar and water with a splash of vanilla extract.
• Maple Syrup: Subtle and warm, it changes the profile slightly but works well.

6. Sweetener
   Original Ingredient: Simple syrup

Substitutes:

• Honey or Agave: Natural alternatives that blend easily.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit: Low-calorie options for a lighter version.

7. Ice
   Original Ingredient: Ice cubes

Substitutes:

• Frozen Milk Cubes: Make your drink extra creamy.
• Crushed Ice: For a smoother, softer blend.

With its dreamy pink-and-green swirl, this copycat Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino delivers both style and substance. It’s cool, creamy, and completely customizable. Once you’ve made it once, you’ll want to keep that strawberry foam on rotation for topping everything from matcha lattes to cold brews.