Matcha Ice Cream Recipe -

If you’re a fan of the vibrant, earthy flavor of matcha paired with the creamy delight of ice cream, this homemade matcha ice cream recipe is perfect for you. It’s a delicious and sophisticated dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers the myriad health benefits of matcha. The process may seem involved, but with a little patience, you can enjoy a gourmet treat right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow matcha ice cream recipe!

Why You Will Love This Matcha Ice Cream Recipe

This matcha ice cream is a unique and delightful twist on traditional ice cream, bringing the rich flavor and health benefits of matcha into a creamy, indulgent dessert. The combination of smooth heavy cream, sweetness from sugar, and earthy matcha creates a delicious frozen treat that is both refreshing and satisfying. Additionally, making ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you have a high-quality, artisanal dessert.

Pro Tips for Making the Matcha Ice Cream

Use Quality Matcha: Opt for ceremonial grade matcha for the best flavor and health benefits. Culinary grade is also suitable but may not yield as vibrant a color.

Check Temperatures: Keep a close eye on the milk mixture while heating and cooking the custard; overheating can lead to curdling.
Chill Thoroughly: Ensure that your mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Experiment: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit for a personalized touch.

Freezing Tips: If you want a firmer texture, let the ice cream freeze for longer. However, allow it to soften slightly before scooping for the best serving experience.

Ingredients

To make this delicious matcha ice cream, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
3 tablespoons matcha green tea powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)

4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your matcha ice cream:

Step 1: In a small bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove lumps.
Step 2: Add a few tablespoons of warm milk to the sifted matcha and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.

Step 3: In a saucepan, combine the remaining milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar. Heat over medium until it just starts to steam—do not boil. Remove from heat.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly pour in some of the warm milk mixture while whisking continuously to temper the yolks.
Step 5: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the milk and cream. Cook over low-medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the custard thickens (around 170–175°F / 77–80°C).

Step 6: Remove from heat and whisk in the prepared matcha paste and vanilla extract. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or curdled bits.
Step 7: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled.
Step 8: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).

Step 9: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2–4 hours until firm.

Optional Serving Suggestion

For a creative presentation, top your matcha ice cream with a swirl of matcha soft-serve and serve it in a chilled glass dessert bowl with golden spoons. This not only looks impressive but enhances the flavor experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan? A: Yes, you can use coconut cream and a plant-based milk instead of dairy. Substitute egg yolks with a vegan thickener such as cornstarch or silken tofu.

Q: How can I store my leftover ice cream? A: Keep it in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure to soften it slightly before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have an ice cream maker? A: You can pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, freeze it, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Can I use other flavors of tea? A: Yes! You can experiment with different flavors of tea, such as chai or oolong, following the same process.

Q: How long will this ice cream last? A: Homemade ice cream is best consumed within 2-3 weeks for optimal flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This matcha ice cream recipe is a fantastic way to indulge in a sweet treat while enjoying the health benefits of matcha. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert at a dinner party or treating yourself after a long day, this ice cream is sure to impress. With a little practice, you can master the art of homemade ice cream, opening the door to endless flavor possibilities. Enjoy your homemade creation!