DIRTEA Iced Banana Bread Matcha Latte Recipe

Everything You Love About Banana Bread, Just Colder

 

Puppies aren’t just for Christmas, and banana bread isn’t just for autumn or winter. Or spring, for that matter. This iced banana bread matcha latte captures all those warm, comforting flavours in a drink that works perfectly for hot afternoons.

Ripe bananas get mashed with vanilla and a pinch of salt, creating this naturally sweet base that pairs beautifully with matcha's earthy notes. We've collaborated with Nourishing Army to bring you this recipe using DIRTEA Matcha Super Blend, which combines ceremonial-grade matcha with Lion's Mane mushroom for cognitive support and Tremella mushroom for skin hydration.

This recipe takes a mere 10 minutes to make, serves four people, and tastes like someone turned your favourite banana bread into the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

 

Ingredients:

For the Banana Base -

• 2 large ripe bananas
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Matcha -

• 4 tablespoons DIRTEA Matcha Super Blend (24g total)
• 180ml cold water
• 1 litre plant-based milk (oat or almond work brilliantly)
• Ice cubes

Method:

• Make the banana base 

Mash the bananas until smooth and stir in vanilla and salt. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your drink will be.

• Prepare the matcha 

Add matcha powder to a bowl with half the water and whisk to a smooth paste. Gradually add the remaining cold water, whisking until completely smooth.

• Layer the drink 

Divide banana puree between four glasses or jars. Fill with ice to about three-quarters full.

• Build your latte 

Pour plant-based milk over the ice, then slowly add the matcha mixture on top.

• Serve immediately 

Give it a gentle stir before drinking, or leave layered for the full visual effect.

The Power of Matcha and Functional Mushrooms

 

Matcha works differently from coffee because it contains L-theanine, an amino acid that creates what researchers call "calm alertness." Studies show that L-theanine helps reduce stress and anxiety while promoting sustained focus, making it perfect for afternoon energy without the jitters.

 

Lion's Mane for Cognitive Function 

Research published in Brain Topography found that participants who consumed L-theanine performed measurably better on cognitively demanding tasks. The Lion's Mane in DIRTEA's blend contains compounds that support nerve growth factor production, which is crucial for maintaining neural pathways involved in memory and learning.

 

Tremella for Skin Hydration 

Tremella mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Research shows its polysaccharides can hold up to 500 times their weight in water, making it incredibly effective for cellular moisture retention - particularly useful during hot weather when hydration becomes more challenging.

 

Sustained Energy Without the Crash 

Studies demonstrate that matcha's combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves reaction time, attention, and memory compared to caffeine alone. The natural sugars from bananas provide immediate energy, while matcha delivers sustained focus that lasts for hours.

 

Creative Variations:

 

Protein-Packed Version 

Blend in 30g vanilla protein powder with the banana base for a post-workout drink that supports muscle recovery.

 

Spiced Banana Bread 

Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the banana mixture for that classic baked goods flavour.

 

Coconut Twist 

Use coconut milk and add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the banana base for tropical notes.

 

Green Smoothie Style 

Add a handful of baby spinach to the banana mixture - you won't taste it, but you'll get extra nutrients.

 

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and easier mashing. The natural sugars will balance matcha's earthiness beautifully.

Oat milk creates the creamiest texture and adds subtle sweetness that complements both banana and matcha flavours. Almond milk works well too for a lighter drink.

Make extra banana base and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Having it ready makes this drink even quicker to assemble.

Try DIRTEA Matcha Super Blend and discover how functional mushrooms can transform your daily routine.

FAQs

Is matcha better than coffee for energy? 

Yes, matcha provides sustained energy without crashes because it contains L-theanine, which works with caffeine to create calm alertness rather than jittery stimulation.

What are the benefits of drinking matcha daily? 

Daily matcha consumption supports cognitive function, provides antioxidants, helps with stress reduction, and may boost metabolism. The functional mushrooms add extra brain and skin benefits.

Does matcha help with weight loss? 

Studies suggest matcha's catechins and caffeine may increase metabolism and fat burning, especially when combined with exercise, though it's not a magic solution.

What does functional mushroom matcha taste like? 

DIRTEA's blend tastes like high-quality ceremonial matcha with no detectable mushroom flavour. The banana adds natural sweetness that complements matcha's earthy notes.

Can you drink matcha while pregnant? 

Matcha contains caffeine, so pregnant women should limit intake and consult with their healthcare provider. Generally, small amounts are considered safer than coffee.

How much matcha should you drink per day? 

Most experts recommend 1-2 servings daily. DIRTEA's serving size is 6g, which provides beneficial compounds without exceeding safe caffeine limits.

 

Made in collaboration with Nourishing Amy.

 

References

1. Baba, Y., et al. (2021). Effects of l-theanine on cognitive function in middle-aged and older subjects. Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324120
2. Martinez-Marmol, R., et al. (2023). Active compound from edible mushroom enhances nerve growth and memory. University of Queensland News. Available at: https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2023/02/mushrooms-magnify-memory-boosting-nerve-growth-0
3. Ma, X., et al. (2021). A review on the production, structure, bioactivities and applications of Tremella polysaccharides. Food Hydrocolloids for Health, 1, 100021. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8172338/
4. Dietz, C., et al. (2017). An intervention study on the effect of matcha tea on mood and cognitive performance. Food Research International, 99, 386-395. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996917301941