Copycat Recipe: Starbucks Banana Cream Protein Matcha
This drink is the perfect mix of creamy banana, earthy matcha, and a smooth protein boost. The real Starbucks version relies on its proprietary protein base and heavy banana cream topping, but you can recreate it at home with everyday ingredients while keeping the balance of flavor and texture true to the original.
Ingredients (1 serving)
1 tsp high-quality matcha powder
2 tbsp hot water (not boiling, around 175°F/80°C)
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or oat milk for creamier texture)
1 scoop vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
2 tbsp banana cream pudding mix (dry) or 2 tbsp mashed ripe banana blended smooth with 1 tsp vanilla pudding mix
1 tbsp honey or simple syrup (optional, adjust to sweetness)
Ice
Instructions
Prepare the matcha: In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water until fully dissolved and frothy. Set aside.
Blend the protein base: In a blender, combine almond milk, protein powder, banana cream pudding mix (or banana + pudding mix combo), and sweetener if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Assemble: Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour the protein-banana mixture over the ice, leaving about 2 inches at the top.
Top with matcha: Slowly pour the prepared matcha over the protein base. It may sink a little (as it does at Starbucks), but the flavors will still layer beautifully. Stir before sipping for the best balance of banana and matcha.
Tips for Success
For authenticity: The pudding mix helps recreate the dense “banana cream” texture Starbucks achieves, without needing special syrups.
Protein choice matters: Plant-based proteins tend to be thicker and creamier, while whey will make the drink lighter. Pick based on your preferred consistency.
Sweetness control: If you want it closer to Starbucks’ subtle sweetness, skip the honey/syrup — the banana cream mix already brings sweetness.
Visual hack: If you want the Instagram-worthy layered look, add the matcha slowly over the back of a spoon to keep it floating on top before mixing.