Step into a swirl of emerald delight with the Wicked Green Matcha, a drink that glows with color and energy. Inspired by the dazzling magic of Dunkin’s limited-edition creation, this recipe captures the same charm in a homemade form that’s smooth, creamy, and full of personality.
Table of Contents
What Is Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha?
Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha is an iced matcha latte base, with brown sugar and toasted-almond flavoring, whole milk (or milk substitute), the “emerald” drink inspired by the character Elphaba.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ teaspoons ceremonial-grade matcha powder: vibrant green color and mild flavor are key for the “wicked” effect.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar syrup: lends depth and warmth to balance the matcha.
- ½ teaspoon toasted-almond extract: creates the nutty aroma featured in Dunkin’s version.
- ¾ cup whole milk: or any preferred milk (oat, almond, or soy).
- ¾ cup ice-cold water: filtered for a clean base.
- Ice cubes: fill the glass about halfway.
- Optional topping: a light sprinkle of matcha powder or almond flakes for visual flair.
Instructions:
Prepare the matcha base:
- Sift the matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add the cold water.
- Whisk in rapid zig-zag motions with a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small electric frother until the mixture turns smooth, foamy, and evenly green.
Sweeten and flavor:
- Stir in the brown sugar syrup.
- Add the toasted-almond extract and whisk again briefly. This combination gives the signature rich and aromatic layer that defines the Wicked Green Matcha.
Assemble the drink:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with ice.
- Pour in the milk slowly so that it sits beneath the foam.
- Gently add the whisked matcha mixture over the milk, allowing the colors to layer for a two-tone effect.
Finish and serve:
- Stir before drinking to blend the layers.
- Add your optional topping for texture and presentation.
- Serve immediately with a wide straw or sip straight from the glass.
Tips For A Perfect Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha:
- Choose vibrant matcha: A bright, grassy hue signals freshness and high quality.
- Mind your whisking speed: Too slow can lead to clumps, while too fast can create excessive foam. Aim for steady motion.
- Control sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar syrup to match your taste. For a lighter profile, replace part of the syrup with honey or coconut nectar.
- Use chilled ingredients: Cold water and milk keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Experiment with milk types: Oat milk enhances creaminess, while almond milk amplifies the nutty note of the almond extract.
- Presentation matters: Serve in a clear glass to showcase the layered green glow that gives the drink its charm.
What To Serve Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha With
Pastries And Baked Treats:
- Almond croissants: The buttery layers and almond paste filling mirror the Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha’s toasted-almond note.
- Matcha scones or muffins: Reinforce the green theme and create a harmonious visual on the plate.
- Brown sugar donuts: Their deep caramel sweetness draws out the warm undertone of the syrup in the Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha.
- Shortbread cookies: Crisp, simple textures complement the smoothness of iced matcha.
Light And Fresh Bites:
- Fruit skewers with strawberries, kiwi, and melon: The brightness of the fruit refreshes the palate between sips.
- Coconut yogurt parfait: dd granola and honey for crunch and natural sweetness.
- Avocado toast: The creamy texture and subtle flavor flow seamlessly with the smoothness of the drink.
Japanese-Inspired Pairings:
- Mochi or daifuku: Soft rice cakes filled with red bean or fruit paste highlight the matcha’s delicate bitterness.
- Dorayaki pancakes: Fluffy and lightly sweet, they make a gentle match for the earthy tones of matcha.
- Sesame cookies: Their nutty, toasted edge connects naturally with the almond extract in the recipe.
Sweet Desserts:
- Vanilla or almond gelato: Melts beautifully alongside iced matcha and heightens the creamy texture.
- White chocolate bark with pistachios: The mild, nutty profile complements the drink’s smooth flavor.
- Green tea tiramisu: Layers of Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha cream and sponge create a dessert harmony that feels both indulgent and cohesive.
Savory Balance Options:
- Mini quiches with spinach and cheese: Their mild richness pairs well with the tea’s freshness.
- Cucumber tea sandwiches: A refreshing bite that brings a clean finish after each sip.
- Edamame with sea salt: A simple, satisfying snack that underscores the drink’s natural depth.
Ingredient Substitutes:
Matcha Powder Alternatives
- Culinary-grade matcha: When ceremonial-grade matcha isn’t available, choose a high-quality culinary version with bright color and a fresh, grassy scent. It will produce a similar green hue and pleasant flavor.
- Green tea powder blend: Finely ground sencha or gyokuro can serve as a stand-in. The texture remains smooth, and the tea essence stays true.
- Spirulina-matcha mix: Combining half matcha and half spirulina powder deepens the green tone and adds nutrients. The flavor leans slightly earthy, maintaining the drink’s natural depth.
Sweetener Substitutes
- Honey syrup: Mix equal parts honey and warm water. It adds a floral sweetness that blends smoothly with matcha.
- Maple syrup: Provides a caramel-like note similar to brown sugar syrup and complements nutty extracts beautifully.
- Coconut sugar syrup: Dissolve coconut sugar in hot water for a gentle, toasted sweetness that mirrors the brown sugar base.
- Agave nectar: Offers a light, clean sweetness that enhances the drink’s delicate layers.
Milk And Cream Alternatives:
- Oat milk: Creates a naturally creamy consistency and supports the toasted-almond tone of the drink.
- Almond milk: Reinforces the nutty character of the Wicked Green Matcha.
- Soy milk: Provides a fuller texture and stabilizes the foam well.
- Coconut milk: Introduces a tropical note that blends seamlessly with brown sugar syrup.
- Cashew milk: Delivers a buttery smoothness that elevates the drink’s body.
Flavoring Alternatives To Toasted-Almond Extract:
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and roundness, creating a soft aromatic base.
- Hazelnut extract: Deepens the nutty essence and pairs well with brown sugar syrup.
- Pistachio extract: Brings a light, green-sweet tone that complements the drink’s color and character.
- Caramel essence: Adds golden richness that echoes the brown sugar foundation.
Liquid Base Adjustments:
- Cold-brew green tea: When water feels too plain, steep green tea overnight and use it as your mixing base. It heightens depth and aroma.
- Sparkling water: Creates a refreshing lift when you prefer a lighter, effervescent texture.
- Flavored ice cubes: Freeze almond milk, coconut water, or light green tea into cubes to slowly enhance the drink as they melt.
Garnish And Finishing Options:
- Shaved coconut: Sprinkled on top for texture and fragrance.
- Crushed pistachios: A touch of nutty crunch that adds elegance.
- Edible flowers: Enhance visual appeal while keeping the matcha’s energy serene.
Health Benefits Of Dunkin Wicked Green Matcha
- A Source of Natural Energy and Focus: Matcha provides a calm and steady lift rather than a sharp burst of caffeine. The energy arises from L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes alertness while keeping the mind centered. This natural synergy between caffeine and L-theanine encourages focus, mental clarity, and sustained concentration.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha contains abundant catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress. These compounds support skin health, circulation, and cellular repair. The deep emerald color of the powder signals its high chlorophyll content, which supports detoxification and internal balance.
- Supports a Calm, Focused Mood: L-theanine in matcha encourages the brain’s alpha-wave activity, associated with calm alertness. The result is a gentle sense of awareness and ease that can carry through work, study, or creative moments. This quality makes Wicked Green Matcha ideal for those seeking mindful energy that aligns with clarity rather than haste.
- Aids Hydration and Digestion: The blend of matcha, water, and milk (or milk alternatives) offers mild hydration that feels restorative rather than heavy. The drink’s composition supports healthy digestion, especially when paired with almond or oat milk, which provide light fiber and smooth texture. The natural antioxidants also promote better metabolism and circulation.
- Promotes Heart Health: Catechins and polyphenols in matcha contribute to balanced cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. Regular consumption can help maintain flexibility in blood vessels and support a healthy heart rhythm. The gentle sweetness from brown sugar syrup or honey keeps the drink enjoyable while still mindful of balance and moderation.
- Encourages Mindful Living: The ritual of preparing matcha encourages intention and stillness. Measuring the powder, whisking it into foam, and observing the color all invite mindfulness. This process grounds the mind, promoting a sense of presence that benefits emotional well-being. The Wicked Green Matcha transforms this ancient tradition into a contemporary ritual that aligns with modern rhythms while maintaining its meditative essence.
- Boosts Skin Radiance: Matcha’s antioxidants and chlorophyll support healthy skin from within. They help maintain elasticity, reduce environmental stress on the skin, and contribute to a natural glow. Regular consumption can subtly enhance complexion by improving circulation and hydration balance.
- Gentle Nourishment from the Milk Base: Whole milk or plant-based alternatives add nutrients that support bone health and general wellness. Oat milk offers beta-glucans for heart health, almond milk provides vitamin E for skin nourishment, and soy milk contributes plant proteins that sustain energy. Together, they round out the drink’s profile with balanced nutrition.
Final Thoughts
The Wicked Green Matcha stands as a drink that connects artistry, flavor, and well-being in one elegant ritual. Each element—the vibrant hue, the soft sweetness, the whisper of almond, invites balance and renewal.
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Ingredients
- 1 ½ teaspoons ceremonial-grade matcha powder: vibrant green color and mild flavor are key for the “wicked” effect.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar syrup: lends depth and warmth to balance the matcha.
- ½ teaspoon toasted-almond extract: creates the nutty aroma featured in Dunkin’s version.
- ¾ cup whole milk: or any preferred milk (oat, almond, or soy).
- ¾ cup ice-cold water: filtered for a clean base.
- Ice cubes: fill the glass about halfway.
- Optional topping: a light sprinkle of matcha powder or almond flakes for visual flair.
Instructions
Prepare the matcha base:
- Sift the matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add the cold water.
- Whisk in rapid zig-zag motions with a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small electric frother until the mixture turns smooth, foamy, and evenly green.
Sweeten and flavor:
- Stir in the brown sugar syrup.
- Add the toasted-almond extract and whisk again briefly. This combination gives the signature rich and aromatic layer that defines the Wicked Green Matcha.
Assemble the drink:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with ice.
- Pour in the milk slowly so that it sits beneath the foam.
- Gently add the whisked matcha mixture over the milk, allowing the colors to layer for a two-tone effect.
Finish and serve:
- Stir before drinking to blend the layers.
- Add your optional topping for texture and presentation.
- Serve immediately with a wide straw or sip straight from the glass.
