How to Make Watermelon Matcha Lemonade – Your New Favorite Summer Drink

July 15, 2025 by Emily

Watermelon matcha lemonade layered in glass with mint and lemon

The first time I tried watermelon matcha lemonade, it was by total accident. I had some leftover watermelon cubes, a half-used tin of matcha, and a lone lemon sitting on the counter. The heat outside was sweltering, and I wasn’t in the mood for anything sugary or boring. So, I blended it all together, fresh watermelon juice, a quick matcha shot, and squeezed lemon, and took a sip.

Game. Changer.

This wasn’t just a drink. It was vibrant, hydrating, earthy-sweet, and slightly tart, like nature’s own energy elixir. It felt like a cross between your favorite iced tea and the kind of spa water you’d sip on at a luxury resort. From that moment on, it became a summer ritual.

Now? Watermelon matcha lemonade is trending everywhere, from Instagram cafes to DIY kitchen hacks. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make it at home, the surprising health benefits, and whether your favorite chains (like Starbucks) still offer it.Looking for a viral refresh? Don’t miss our pain chiller mocktail for another summer sip that’s turning heads.

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Ingredients You Need to Make Watermelon Matcha Lemonade at Home

Watermelon matcha lemonade
How to Make Watermelon Matcha Lemonade – Your New Favorite Summer Drink 4

Pick the Right Matcha for the Job

Not all matcha is created equal. For watermelon matcha lemonade, you’ll want culinary-grade matcha, it’s slightly more bitter but balances perfectly with sweet fruit.

Tips for choosing matcha:

  • Bright green = fresh and quality
  • Avoid dull or yellow tones (they taste stale)
  • Store in an airtight container, kept away from light to preserve freshness.

Watermelon Matters More Than You Think

Choose seedless watermelon with deep pink flesh, it’s sweeter and blends better.

  • Best varieties: Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet
  • Chop and chill watermelon before blending for maximum refreshment.

Fresh Lemon Juice > Bottled Every Time

Lemon is what brings brightness and tang. Use:

  • 2–3 tablespoons freshly squeezed per cup
  • Zest the lemon too for extra flavor

Optional add-ins:

  • Mint leaves
  • Raw honey or agave
  • Coconut water (for extra hydration)

Health Benefits of Matcha, Watermelon, and Lemon

The Power Trio: Nutrition + Hydration

Watermelon matcha lemonade isn’t just pretty, it packs a punch when it comes to health:

IngredientKey Benefits
MatchaAntioxidants (EGCG), natural caffeine, metabolism boost
WatermelonHigh in water (92%), contains lycopene & citrulline
LemonVitamin C, immune boost, digestion support

Great for Hot Days and Low-Energy Slumps

This drink naturally hydrates, energizes, and even supports your immune system, without synthetic additives.

Looking for a cleaner energy boost? Don’t miss our blue salt trick recipe for another hydrating drink with an edge.

Step-by-Step Watermelon Matcha Lemonade Recipe

You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup cold watermelon juice (fresh blended + strained)
  • ½ tsp matcha powder
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup cold water (or coconut water)
  • Ice cubes
  • 1–2 tsp sweetener (optional)

Instructions:

Step-by-step shot showing matcha being whisked
How to Make Watermelon Matcha Lemonade – Your New Favorite Summer Drink 5
  1. Make the matcha:
    Whisk matcha with 2 tbsp hot (not boiling) water until frothy.
  2. Blend the watermelon:
    Cut and blend seedless watermelon until smooth. Strain for a clearer texture.
  3. Combine:
    In a shaker or glass, add lemon juice, sweetener, watermelon juice, and chilled water. Stir well.
  4. Add matcha:
    Pour the whisked matcha on top for a layered effect or stir it all together.
  5. Serve cold over ice.
    Garnish with mint or a lemon slice.

Looking for a mood-boosting tea? Try our Japanese Mounjaro tea recipe to alternate your summer sip lineup.

Did Starbucks Discontinue Matcha Lemonade?

The Short Answer: In Some Regions, Yes

Matcha Lemonade was once a beloved item on the Starbucks Iced Teas menu. However, it has been phased out or made seasonal in many locations, especially in the U.S.

Why?

  • Low consistent demand in colder seasons
  • Prep time complexity
  • Regional product testing and adjustments

But here’s the good news:

  • It’s still available in many Asian and Canadian Starbucks menus
  • You can custom order it (iced matcha + lemonade) at most U.S. stores

Copycat Watermelon Matcha Version:

Since Starbucks never officially released a watermelon version, the recipe is a DIY trend, one you can easily recreate at home (and make better!).

If you enjoy reinventing your favorites at home, try fun ideas like our fruit roll-up ice cream hack.

Fun Variations and Add-Ins

Want to Switch It Up? Try These Combos:

Add-InBenefit
Mint leavesFreshness and digestion
Sparkling waterAdds fizz, turns it into a soda
Coconut waterMore electrolytes for hydration
BasilHerbal twist, especially with strawberry add-ons
Cucumber juiceSpa-level cooling and hydration

Creative Ways to Serve It:

  • Popsicles: Freeze into molds for summer treats
  • Smoothie base: Blend with frozen banana or pineapple
  • Cocktail mixer: Add a splash of gin or vodka for a happy hour twist
  • Chia cooler: Add soaked chia seeds for fiber and texture

Don’t miss our water hazard mocktail if you’re a fan of drinkable refreshers with a creative twist.

For more recipes, follow us on Pinterest.

Watermelon matcha lemonade layered in glass with mint and lemon

Watermelon Matcha Lemonade

Watermelon matcha lemonade is a refreshing, antioxidant-rich summer drink that blends earthy matcha with juicy watermelon and lemon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Beverage, Drinks
Cuisine: Summer Refreshment
Calories: 60

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup seedless watermelon juice fresh blended & strained
  • ½ tsp matcha powder culinary grade
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup cold water or coconut water
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional: 1–2 tsp honey or agave syrup
  • Garnish: mint leaves or lemon slice

Method
 

  1. Whisk matcha: Combine matcha powder with 2 tbsp hot (not boiling) water until frothy.
  2. Prepare watermelon juice: Blend fresh watermelon, strain through mesh sieve.
  3. Mix: In a shaker or mason jar, add lemon juice, watermelon juice, sweetener, and cold water. Shake or stir well.
  4. Add matcha: Pour the matcha into the drink for a swirl or mix it for a full blend.
  5. Serve over ice, garnish with mint or lemon.

Notes

  • For a sparkling version, use soda water instead of still water.
  • Keep in the fridge up to 24 hours, stir before serving.
  • Add chia seeds or basil seeds for texture and nutrition.
  • Perfect as a base for mocktails.

FAQ – Watermelon Matcha Lemonade

Did Starbucks discontinue their matcha lemonade?

Yes, in many U.S. locations, matcha lemonade is no longer a standard menu item. However, you can often custom order it with iced matcha and lemonade. Some international stores still carry it officially.

Is watermelon matcha good?

Absolutely, the earthy notes of matcha complement the sweetness of watermelon, resulting in a balanced, vibrant, and refreshing flavor combination.

Is matcha lemonade good for you?

Yes. Matcha lemonade is rich in antioxidants, provides clean energy, and supports digestion and hydration, especially when made with natural ingredients.

Do watermelon and lemon go well together?

Yes! The juicy sweetness of watermelon complements the tart zing of lemon beautifully. Together, they deliver a hydrating, naturally refreshing flavor that’s both light and satisfying.

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