Chefs and baristas are always looking for that next signature drink — something visually striking, culturally inspired, and crave-worthy from the first sip to the last drop.

Let me introduce you to Matchata — also known as matcha horchata, hormatcha, or horchata matcha. It’s where Hispanic and Asian flavor traditions collide in one beautifully layered glass.

This is not just a drink. It’s theater. It’s texture. It’s aroma. It’s margin.

What Is Matchata?

Matchata = Matcha + Horchata.

On one side, we have ceremonial-fiesta-inspired green tea matcha — grassy, slightly sweet, umami-rich, with soft vegetal notes and creamy body.

On the other, traditional horchata — sweet rice milk flavors, warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a silky finish that lingers.

Together you get:

• Earthy and creamy

• Umami and cinnamon warmth

• Bright green tea and nostalgic dessert notes

• Clean energy and comforting sweetness

It’s a layered drink that speaks both to your boba crowd and your Latin dessert lovers.

Flavor Profiles: Why Matcha Horchata Works

MOCAFE™ Green Tea Matcha Latte

Smooth, lightly sweetened matcha with:

• Fresh cut grass notes

• Subtle umami depth

• Creamy mouthfeel

• Vibrant green color

• Balanced sweetness for café service

It delivers that Instagram-worthy emerald layer while maintaining a soft, approachable matcha flavor.

MOCAFE™ Horchata

Sweet, creamy, and nostalgic:

• Rice milk body

• Warm cinnamon spice

• Hints of vanilla

• Smooth, dessert-like finish

Rounded and aromatic, it complements matcha without overpowering it.

How to Make a Layered Iced Matcha Horchata (Matchata)

Step 1: Create the Green Matcha Layer

Add ice to a clear 16–20 oz cup. Blend or shake MOCAFE™ Green Tea Matcha Latte powder with cold milk (dairy or oat). Pour into the cup to form a vibrant green base.

Step 2: Float the Horchata Layer

Mix MOCAFE™ Horchata with cold milk or water. Slowly pour over the back of a spoon to create a clean, creamy top layer.

Step 3: Finish

Dust with MOCAFE™ Green Tea Matcha Latte powder and add a dash of cinnamon.

You now have a visually stunning layered matcha horchata drink ready for social media.

Matcha Horchata Frappe Version

Blend matcha with ice and milk until smooth. Pour into cup. Blend horchata separately and layer on top. Finish with matcha dust and cinnamon. This frappe version is dessert-forward and ideal for warm weather menus.

Why Add Matchata to Your Café Menu?

Cultural fusion attracts attention and creates a premium perception.
Layered drinks photograph beautifully and drive social sharing.
Powdered matcha and horchata systems reduce prep time and labor.
The flavor profile appeals to both tea drinkers and traditional horchata fans.
It works iced or blended, increasing menu flexibility.

Matchata Q&A

Q: What is matcha horchata?

A: Matcha horchata, also called Matchata or hormatcha, is a fusion drink combining Japanese-style green tea matcha with traditional Mexican horchata. It features earthy, slightly sweet matcha layered with creamy cinnamon-vanilla horchata.

Q: What does matcha horchata taste like?

A: Matcha horchata tastes creamy, lightly sweet, and aromatic. The matcha brings grassy, umami depth, while horchata adds cinnamon warmth and vanilla sweetness. The combination creates a balanced, refreshing fusion drink.

Q: How do you layer matcha and horchata?

A: To layer matcha horchata, pour the prepared matcha base over ice first. Then slowly pour the horchata mixture over the back of a spoon to keep the layers separate. This technique creates a distinct green bottom and creamy white top.

Q: Can you make matcha horchata as a frappe?

A: Yes. Blend matcha with ice and milk for the base, then blend horchata separately and layer on top. This creates a Matcha Horchata Frappe that is thicker and more dessert-like.

Q: Is matcha horchata served hot or iced?

A: Matcha horchata is most popular iced or blended as a frappe. However, it can also be served warm by preparing both components hot and gently layering them.

Q: Is matcha horchata good for cafés and boba shops?

A: Absolutely. Matcha horchata is visually striking, culturally unique, and high-margin. It appeals to customers who enjoy matcha lattes, horchata drinks, and layered beverages.

Q: What cultures inspire matchata?

Matchata is inspired by Japanese matcha tea traditions and Mexican horchata. It’s a cross-cultural drink that celebrates both Asian and Hispanic flavors in one modern café beverage.

If you’re looking to elevate your menu with a layered matcha horchata drink that delivers flavor, visual appeal, and operational simplicity, Matchata is ready to become your next signature seller.