Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream is rich, creamy, and packed with the authentic taste of matcha. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this decadent dessert in no time. It’s perfect for cooling down on a warm day or indulging in a sweet treat after dinner. Plus, the vibrant green color makes it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. If you’re a fan of Asian desserts or green tea, you’ll love this homemade ice cream!

Ingredients

• ⅔ cup sugar

• 4 egg yolks

• 1 ½ cup whole milk

• 1 ½ cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoon matcha

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a saucepan, whisk the sugar and egg yolks until the mixture becomes pale yellow.

2. Stir in the milk and heat on low, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 170˚F.

3. Whisk the matcha and heavy cream into the custard mixture.

4. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps and refrigerate until chilled.

5. Once chilled, add the mixture to an ice cream machine and churn for 20-30 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

6. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes (plus 2 hours freezing time)

Variations

• Vegan Matcha Ice Cream: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. Substitute the egg yolks with a plant-based egg replacer or a thickening agent like cornstarch.

• Matcha and Red Bean: Add a spoonful of sweetened red bean paste to the ice cream mixture during the churning process for a traditional Japanese twist.

• Matcha Swirl: For a beautiful presentation and added flavor, swirl some matcha syrup or honey into the ice cream before freezing.

Storage/Reheating

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 1-2 weeks, but the texture is best within the first few days. If the ice cream hardens too much, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to soften it.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream machine?

Yes, you can! Simply pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up the ice crystals until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.

2. How can I make the matcha flavor stronger?

To enhance the matcha flavor, simply add an extra teaspoon of matcha powder. Just make sure to whisk it thoroughly into the mixture to avoid clumping.

3. Can I substitute the whole milk with another type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk with any milk you prefer. For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk.

4. What is the best type of matcha for this recipe?

For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality ceremonial grade matcha. It has a smooth, vibrant taste that is ideal for desserts.

5. How can I prevent the ice cream from becoming icy?

Ensure the custard mixture is well chilled before churning, and make sure your ice cream machine bowl is frozen for at least 24 hours prior to use. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

6. Can I make this ice cream ahead of time?

Yes, this ice cream can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just be sure to let it soften slightly before scooping.

7. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a combination of coconut milk and almond milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream. For the egg yolks, use a cornstarch or agar-agar substitute.

8. Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream?

Yes, you can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or pieces of mochi once the ice cream is almost done churning.

9. Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes, you can use alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Just keep in mind that it may affect the texture and flavor slightly.

10. How do I know when the custard is ready?

The custard is ready when it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, reaching around 170˚F. If you dip a spoon into the mixture and run your finger through it, the line should remain intact.

Conclusion

This homemade Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream is a delicious and easy treat that brings the flavors of Japan straight to your kitchen. Creamy, smooth, and packed with the distinct taste of matcha, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for something sweet and refreshing.