Discover the ultimate homemade matcha ice cream recipe! Learn about matcha’s Japanese origins, health benefits, and step-by-step instructions for this creamy treat.
Matcha ice cream has taken the culinary world by storm, but I must admit, I wasn’t always a fan. Years ago, I tried a green powder in my smoothies that I thought was matcha, but found it incredibly unpleasant, and I mistakenly thought matcha ice cream would taste the same.
However, my perspective shifted recently when I finally gave matcha ice cream a chance, having seen it trending here, there, and everywhere. Its creamy texture and earthy sweetness were a revelation, far removed from my earlier experience.
In this article, we’ll explore matcha’s origins, health benefits, and the rise of this vibrant ingredient, and of course, we’ll share our recipe and a step-by-step guide to crafting your own matcha ice cream at home. Whether you’re new to matcha or already a fan, this recipe is sure to impress.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves.
Originating in Japan, it has been used for centuries in traditional tea ceremonies. Unlike regular green tea, matcha involves consuming the entire leaf, which is cultivated under shade to enhance its vibrant colour and nutrient content.
Its distinct flavour profile combines earthy bitterness with subtle sweetness, making it versatile for beverages and desserts alike.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is celebrated not only for its unique taste, its vibrant green colouring, but also for its impressive health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha contains high levels of catechins and polyphenols that combat oxidative stress and support overall health.
- Boosts Brain Function: The combination of caffeine and L-theanine enhances focus and alertness while promoting relaxation.
- Supports Metabolism: Matcha may assist in weight management by boosting metabolism and aiding fat burning.
- Improves Heart Health: Studies suggest that matcha can lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Immune System Support: Packed with vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium, matcha helps strengthen immunity.
👉🏽 Click here to learn more – 7 Proven Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
The Rise of Matcha
Once exclusive to Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha has gained global popularity as a trendy ingredient in drinks and desserts. Its vibrant green hue makes it visually appealing, while its versatility allows it to shine in everything from lattes to cakes and ice creams.
Matcha’s rise reflects a growing interest in healthier alternatives that combine indulgence with nutritional benefits.
Why Matcha in Ice Cream?
Matcha is an exceptional ingredient to incorporate into ice cream due to its unique flavour profile and numerous benefits. The earthy, slightly bitter taste of matcha beautifully complements the sweetness of cream and sugar, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert.
Additionally, matcha’s vibrant green colour adds a visually appealing element to the ice cream, making it a stunning addition to any dessert table. Its health benefits, such as high antioxidant content and potential metabolism boost, also make it a popular choice for those seeking a slightly healthier indulgence.
This blend of taste, aesthetics, and nutritional value makes matcha ice cream a delicious treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a touch of wellness. With its versatility in allowing for various flavour combinations, matcha ice cream is perfect for experimenting with different toppings and mix-ins to create unique desserts.
Now, let’s share our recipe and step-by-step guide to making your own delicious homemade matcha ice cream!
Homemade Matcha Ice Cream Recipe
(Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 15 mins, Chill & Freeze: 6-7 hours)
Ingredients
- 475 ml double cream
- 240 ml whole milk
- 180 g granulated sugar
- 30 g culinary-grade matcha powder
- 4 egg yolks
- 5 ml vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Method
- Prepare the Base: Warm the milk and cream over medium heat until heated but not boiling.
- Beat Egg Yolks: Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thickened.
- Temper Eggs: Gradually add warm milk mixture to the yolks before returning everything to the pan.
- Infuse with Matcha: Sift matcha powder into the mixture while stirring constantly until thickened.
- Chill Mixture: Cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
- Churn & Freeze: Churn in an ice cream maker for 20–25 minutes; freeze for an additional 2–3 hours.
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250 | Total Fat: ~16g | Saturated Fat: ~10g | Protein: ~4g | Carbohydrates: ~24g
👉🏽 As with all our homemade ice cream recipes, you can adapt the sweetness levels to suit your taste preferences.
👉🏽 Note: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe;
Simply pour your ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals, repeating this process for about 3-4 hours or until the ice cream is firm. Please also check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker – to learn more.
👉🏽 Don’t have an ice cream maker, but thinking about buying one? Not sure which one would suit you best? Head over to our article – What is the Best Ice Cream Maker? A Detailed Review. This provides information and guidance on what you want to look for in an ice cream maker and reviews a selection of appliances.
Additional Toppings
Elevate your matcha ice cream with these creative and delicious toppings to add texture, flavour, and visual appeal:
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provides a delightful tartness that contrasts beautifully with the earthy sweetness of matcha. The vibrant colours also add a pop of colour to your dessert.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavour that complements the matcha nicely. Simply toast the sesame seeds in a pan over low heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Drizzles of Honey or White Chocolate Sauce: Honey brings a floral sweetness, while white chocolate adds a creamy richness. Both pair well with the subtle bitterness of matcha, creating a balanced and indulgent treat.
- Coconut Flakes or Lemon Zest: Sprinkle shredded coconut flakes for a tropical twist or add a pinch of lemon zest for a burst of citrus freshness. Both enhance the flavour complexity and add an additional textural element.
- Other Options: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts), chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Each addition can transform your matcha ice cream into a unique dessert experience.
These toppings allow you to personalise your matcha ice cream and make it truly special, whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a solo treat.
Traditional Japanese Pairings for Matcha Ice Cream
How about truly embracing the Taste of Japan by using some of the following traditional Japanese accompaniments for your matcha ice cream:
A classic Japanese dessert made from pounded rice, often served with matcha ice cream for a delicious textural contrast. Mochi can be filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings, complementing the earthy taste of matcha.
A traditional Japanese ingredient often paired with matcha in desserts. The sweetness of azuki beans complements the bitterness of matcha, creating a balanced flavour profile.
Roasted soybean flour, which adds a nutty flavour and is often used in traditional Japanese desserts and pairs well with matcha.
A traditional Japanese sponge cake that can be served alongside matcha ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
These accompaniments not only enhance the flavour of matcha ice cream but also offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich culinary traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha Ice Cream
Q: Can I Make Matcha Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
A: Yes, you can substitute double cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk. This will change the texture and flavour slightly, but it still results in a delicious and unique ice cream experience.
👉🏽 See our articles – Vegan And Dairy-Free Homemade Ice Cream Using Coconut Milk and Homemade (Dairy-Free) Almond Milk Ice Cream Recipe – both of which provide dairy-free and vegan alternative tips and ideas.
Q: How Do I Ensure a Smooth Texture in My Matcha Ice Cream?
A: The key to a smooth texture is tempering the eggs correctly and stirring constantly when adding the matcha. Avoid boiling the mixture to prevent curdling, and always sift the matcha powder to remove any lumps.
Q: Can I Store Homemade Matcha Ice Cream?
A: Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
👉🏽 See our article – Ice Cream Storage Solutions – Essential Tips To Keep Your Homemade Ice Cream Fresh! – for more hints and tips on proper storage.
Q: What Type of Matcha Powder Should I Use for Ice Cream?
A: For the best flavour, use culinary-grade matcha powder. Ceremonial grade can also be used, but it is more expensive and typically reserved for traditional tea ceremonies.
Q: How Long Does It Take to Churn Matcha Ice Cream?
A: Churning time typically ranges from 20 to 25 minutes using an ice cream maker. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture and stir it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
👉🏽 Check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker – to learn more.
Q: Can I Add Other Flavours to Matcha Ice Cream?
A: Yes, you can experiment with additional flavours like white chocolate chips, lemon zest, or toasted sesame seeds to create unique variations that suit your taste preferences. As always, the best thing about Homemade Ice Cream is that you can adapt it exactly to your taste preferences. There really are no limits!
The Final Scoop
Matcha ice cream is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines rich Japanese tradition with modern culinary creativity. Whether you’re indulging alone or sharing with loved ones, this recipe invites you to explore the art of homemade treats.
👉🏽 Have you tried making matcha ice cream? Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below – We’d love to hear how you’ve made this recipe your own!
We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Homemade Matcha Ice Cream Recipe – A Taste Of Japan – and that we have inspired you to give this trending and delicious recipe a go. If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below, and we will be happy to get back to you.
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This recipe sounds amazing! I love the earthy, creamy flavor of matcha, especially when it’s paired with something as indulgent as ice cream. It’s great that this recipe includes simple ingredients without sacrificing authenticity. Have you experimented with adding toppings like red bean paste or mochi for a full Japanese dessert experience?
Hi Marlinda,
Great to see you back again! Glad that you’re loving the sound of this recipe—matcha’s earthy richness really does make for an indulgent, yet balanced, ice cream.
Yes, red bean paste and mochi are such classic pairings, and we actually highlighted them in the article under the Traditional Japanese Pairings section. They add that perfect textural contrast and an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. Kinako (roasted soybean flour) is another fun addition if you’re looking to explore even more traditional flavours!
If you give it a try, we’d love to hear what you think.
Thanks again for your thoughtful comment!
All the best,
Cherie