Say goodbye to last-minute grocery store runs when you’re out of matcha powder. You’re in the middle of preparing a batch of matcha lattes, green tea cookies, or a vibrant smoothie bowl, and as you reach for the matcha powder, you realize the tin is empty.
That earthy, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant green color you were counting on is missing. But don’t worry—matcha’s unique taste and health benefits can be recreated with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
Matcha powder, made from finely ground green tea leaves, is prized for its rich flavor, vibrant color, and antioxidant properties. But whether you’re out of matcha, avoiding caffeine, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same depth and vibrancy.
From other teas to creative twists, here’s how to keep your matcha-inspired recipes on track—no last-minute store runs required.

7 Easy Substitutes for Matcha Powder
Matcha’s charm lies in its earthy flavor, vibrant green color, and health benefits. These substitutes mimic its essence while adding their own unique flair. Perfect for drinks, baked goods, or smoothies, here’s how to adapt without compromise:
1. Green Tea Powder: The Closest Match
Green tea powder, made from ground green tea leaves, is the closest substitute for matcha. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it may have a slightly milder flavor and lighter color.
This substitute works beautifully in matcha lattes, smoothies, or baked goods. I once used green tea powder for a last-minute batch of matcha cookies, and the result was just as delicious. For extra vibrancy, add a drop of green food coloring.
Pro tip: Look for ceremonial-grade green tea powder for the best flavor.
2. Sencha Tea: The Lighter Option
Sencha tea, a type of Japanese green tea, can be ground into a fine powder and used as a matcha substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it has a lighter flavor and color.
This swap is perfect for drinks or desserts where a subtle green tea flavor is desired. My friend used ground sencha tea for a matcha latte, and the light, refreshing taste was a hit. For extra richness, add a splash of almond milk.
Fun twist: Add a pinch of sugar to enhance the sweetness.
3. Spinach Powder: The Colorful Twist
Spinach powder can be used to mimic matcha’s vibrant green color, though it lacks the tea flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, and pair it with a mild tea or flavoring to replicate matcha’s taste.
This substitute works well in smoothies, pancakes, or energy bars. I used spinach powder for a green smoothie bowl, and the vibrant color was a hit. For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or vanilla extract.
Watch out: Spinach powder has a mild, vegetal taste, so adjust the sweetness in your recipe.
4. Spirulina Powder: The Superfood Swap
Spirulina powder, a blue-green algae, can be used to replicate matcha’s color and add a nutritional boost. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it has a distinct, slightly salty flavor.
This swap is perfect for smoothies, energy balls, or health drinks. My cousin used spirulina powder for a matcha-inspired smoothie, and the vibrant color was a hit. For extra sweetness, add a splash of fruit juice.
Pro tip: Start with a small amount of spirulina, as its flavor can be strong.
Love superfood alternatives? Explore these spirulina powder substitutes.
5. Moringa Powder: The Earthy Alternative
Moringa powder, made from dried moringa leaves, has a slightly earthy flavor and green color similar to matcha. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it lacks the sweetness of matcha.
This substitute works well in teas, smoothies, or baked goods. My neighbor used moringa powder for a matcha latte, and the earthy flavor was a hit. For extra sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Fun twist: Mix moringa powder with a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
6. Wheatgrass Powder: The Nutrient-Rich Option
Wheatgrass powder, made from dried wheatgrass, can be used to mimic matcha’s color and add a nutritional boost. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it has a grassy, slightly bitter flavor.
This swap is perfect for smoothies, juices, or health shots. My brother used wheatgrass powder for a green smoothie, and the vibrant color was a hit. For extra sweetness, add a splash of pineapple or apple juice.
Watch out: Wheatgrass powder has a strong flavor, so start with a small amount.
7. Herbal Tea Blends: The Caffeine-Free Option
Herbal tea blends, such as mint or chamomile, can be ground into a fine powder and used as a caffeine-free matcha substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it will have a different flavor profile.
This substitute works well in drinks or desserts where a mild, herbal flavor is desired. I used ground mint tea for a matcha-inspired latte, and the refreshing taste was a hit. For extra richness, add a splash of coconut milk.
Pro tip: Experiment with different herbal teas to find your favorite flavor.

Kimberly Baxter is the proud owner of the food blog Eatdelights.com. A self-proclaimed foodie, Kimberly loves to cook and share her recipes with others. She has been blogging about food since 2010 and has amassed a following of loyal readers.
Her recipes are creative, delicious, and easy to follow. In addition to her blog, Kimberly also enjoys writing for other publications.