Matcha green tea ice cream Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of matcha powder with the creamy sweetness of ice cream. Originating from Japan, this vibrant green dessert has gained popularity worldwide for its unique taste and health benefits. This pure vegetarian recipe ensures you can enjoy matcha green tea ice cream without any eggs or gelatin, making it perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Calcium: 120mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 4 hours (chilling and freezing)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 6
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Ice cream maker (optional)
- Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk or plant-based milk (almond or oat milk works well)
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream or coconut cream
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder (ceremonial grade for best flavor)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for a thicker consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Matcha Mixture
- In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove any lumps.
- Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of warm milk to the matcha powder, whisking vigorously until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Sugar
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Add Matcha and Thicken
- Reduce the heat to low and add the matcha paste to the saucepan. Whisk until the mixture is evenly green and no lumps remain.
- If using cornstarch, mix it with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer it to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.
Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours to break up ice crystals and achieve a creamier texture.
Step 6: Freeze and Serve
- Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for an additional 1-2 hours for a firmer texture.
- Scoop and serve in bowls or cones. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of matcha powder or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Matcha Ice Cream
- Use high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Adjust the sugar level based on your sweetness preference.
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
- Serve alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or mango for a balanced dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This matcha green tea ice cream is not just a treat for the taste buds but also offers the health benefits of matcha, including antioxidants and a natural energy boost. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a solo treat, this ice cream is a must-try.
Enjoy the refreshing taste of matcha green tea ice cream, a dessert that perfectly marries tradition and modernity in every creamy scoop!