There are some products that instantly find a permanent place in the kitchen, and GNAW’s new Matcha Drinking Chocolate is one of them. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing iced drink on a warm summer afternoon or a comforting mug of hot chocolate on a cooler evening, this luxurious blend offers a unique twist on two much-loved favourites: rich cocoa and premium Japanese matcha.
After trying it in several different ways, our favourite has to be blending it into a morning banana smoothie. The creamy chocolate notes combine beautifully with banana, while the matcha adds a subtle earthy flavour and a gentle lift that makes it the perfect way to start the day.
What Is GNAW Matcha Drinking Chocolate?
GNAW has taken its award-winning drinking chocolate and infused it with premium Japanese matcha to create a drink that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The finely milled chocolate flakes melt effortlessly into milk, producing a smooth, velvety drink that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
For summer, simply whisk the flakes into chilled milk and pour over crushed ice for an elevated iced chocolate. During colder months, stir into warm milk for a rich, comforting drink that delivers a luxurious café-style experience from home.
The flakes are also surprisingly versatile, making them an excellent ingredient for smoothies, milkshakes, overnight oats, desserts and baking.
Why Matcha and Chocolate Work So Well Together
At first glance, chocolate and matcha may seem like an unusual pairing, but they complement each other beautifully.
The rich cocoa provides natural sweetness and depth, while the matcha contributes fresh, grassy notes with a gentle umami finish. Together they create a balanced drink that feels indulgent without becoming overly sweet.
Unlike coffee, which can sometimes lead to a rapid spike in energy followed by an afternoon slump, matcha naturally contains both caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine. This combination is widely recognised for providing a steadier release of energy while promoting calm focus, making it popular with people looking for a more balanced alternative to coffee.
Premium Ingredients Make the Difference
One of the standout features of GNAW Matcha Drinking Chocolate is its commitment to quality ingredients.
The chocolate is made using single-source Fino de Aroma Colombian cocoa, a classification achieved by only around 8% of the world’s cocoa production. This premium cocoa is prized for its complex flavour profile and smooth finish.
To complement it, GNAW uses one of the highest grades of Japanese matcha. The tea leaves are traditionally shade-grown before harvest and carefully stone-ground into a fine powder, helping to preserve the natural antioxidants, amino acids and distinctive flavour that matcha is known for.
The result is a drink that tastes noticeably more refined than many standard drinking chocolates.
More Than Just a Hot Chocolate
One of the reasons we enjoyed this product so much is its versatility.
Some of our favourite ways to enjoy it include:
- Blended into a banana smoothie for breakfast.
- Served over crushed ice with chilled milk.
- Mixed into warm oat or dairy milk for a comforting evening drink.
- Stirred into overnight oats.
- Added to brownie or cookie recipes for a subtle matcha twist.
- Used to make homemade iced frappés.
Because the flakes dissolve so easily, experimenting with different recipes couldn’t be simpler.
A Brand with Sustainability at Its Heart
Behind GNAW is husband-and-wife team Matt and Teri Legon, who founded the independent Norwich-based chocolate company with a vision of creating playful, premium chocolate while putting sustainability first.
The entire range is produced without palm oil, artificial flavours or preservatives, and the company sources ethically produced Colombian cocoa. Even the production process reflects its environmental values, with much of the chocolate made using electricity generated by solar panels installed on the factory roof.
That commitment to responsible production adds another layer of appeal for consumers who increasingly want products that consider both quality and environmental impact.
As co-founder Matt explains:
“At GNAW we pride ourselves in bringing bold new tastes to the finest chocolate that also puts people and the planet first. We’re delighted to share this exciting addition to our range.”
He adds:
“These fabulous flakes melt beautifully into milk, giving you a rich, velvety authentic cocoa hit infused with the fresh earthiness of the finest Japanese Matcha. GNAW Matcha Drinking Chocolate is for anyone looking for an indulgent treat and a natural refreshing pick-me-up without the caffeine crash associated with coffee.”
Our Verdict
If you’re already a fan of matcha, this is an easy recommendation. If you’ve been curious about trying matcha but find traditional matcha tea a little too earthy, GNAW Matcha Drinking Chocolate offers a wonderfully approachable introduction.
Rich enough to satisfy chocolate lovers yet light enough to enjoy throughout the year, it feels equally at home as a refreshing summer cooler or a cosy winter indulgence. Its premium ingredients, thoughtful sourcing and versatility make it stand out from the average drinking chocolate.
For us, it has already earned a permanent place in the kitchen cupboard—and we’ll certainly be adding it to plenty more morning smoothies.
Discover more: https://www.gnawchocolate.co.uk
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
