Picture the vibrant green hue of matcha ice cream, its creamy texture melting smoothly on your tongue.
There’s something enchanting about this Japanese dessert that’s both invigorating and indulgent.
Surprisingly simple to make, this treat brings the comforting flavors of matcha to your kitchen.
As you whisk and churn, watch the ingredients transform into a delightful masterpiece.
Let’s bring this delightful treat to life and savor the magic of matcha ice cream.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Ice cream maker
- 1 Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while making matcha ice cream, follow this timeline:
- Preparation Time (10 minutes):
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
- Measure out 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, 1 cup whole milk, 2 cups heavy cream, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 4 large egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Set up your workspace: have your saucepan, mixing bowl, whisk, and ice cream maker ready.
- Cooking Time (10 minutes):
- 0 – 5 minutes: In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and matcha powder over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- 5 – 7 minutes: In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become slightly thick.
- 7 – 9 minutes: Gradually pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
- 9 – 10 minutes: Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture and cook over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cooling and Chilling:
- 10 – 20 minutes: Remove from heat, stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- 20 – 30 minutes: Cover and refrigerate until completely chilled (additional time for chilling: approximately 2 hours).
- Ice Cream Churning and Freezing:
- After chilling (approx. 2 hours): Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freezing Time (4 hours): Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Additional Time for Reading Instructions:
– Allocate an extra 5-10 minutes to thoroughly read through the recipe instructions before you begin cooking. This will guarantee you’re familiar with each step and can execute the process smoothly.
Recipe Instructions
In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and matcha powder over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become slightly thick.
Gradually pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until completely chilled.
Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Serving Tips
- Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness with a handful of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add a fluffy, rich contrast to the smooth texture of matcha ice cream.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings for a touch of bitterness that complements the sweet and earthy flavors of matcha.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Enhance the dessert with a crunchy texture and a hint of tropical flavor by topping it with toasted coconut flakes.
- Sesame Seeds: Garnish with lightly toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor that pairs well with matcha.
Storage
Store matcha ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals.
Keep it in the coldest part of the freezer.
Consume within two weeks for best taste.
Freezing
When freezing matcha ice cream, use an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals.
Freeze for at least 4 hours.
Avoid frequent opening to maintain creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
Matcha ice cream is best enjoyed fresh.
If needed, let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes rather than reheating to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Matcha ice cream is a delightful and invigorating dessert that brings a unique taste of Japan to your table.
The combination of creamy texture and earthy matcha flavor makes it a perfect treat for any occasion.
When making this ice cream, using high-quality matcha powder is key to achieving the best flavor and vibrant color.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still enjoy homemade matcha ice cream by using the alternative freezing method.
Simply freeze the mixture in a container and stir it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Though this method may result in a slightly less creamy texture, it still offers a delicious homemade experience.
Enjoy your matcha ice cream as a standalone treat or as a delightful complement to other desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute a Non-Dairy Milk for Whole Milk in This Recipe?
You can substitute non-dairy milk for whole milk, but choose one with a creamy texture, like almond or oat milk. I’ve tried it myself, and it works well, though the flavor might be slightly different.
Is There a Way to Enhance the Matcha Flavor Without Adding More Powder?
You can enhance the matcha flavor by steeping the powder in warm milk longer. I once tried it, and the flavor deepened beautifully. It’s like letting a good tea sit—patience truly pays off in taste!
What Are Some Popular Toppings for Matcha Ice Cream?
You’ve got to try topping it with toasted coconut flakes; they add a delightful crunch. Or drizzle some honey for sweetness. Personally, I love a sprinkle of crushed pistachios—they complement the flavor perfectly with their nutty touch.
How Does the Quality of Matcha Powder Affect the Final Ice Cream?
You’ll notice that using high-quality matcha powder enhances both the flavor and color of your creation. It reminds you of a serene tea ceremony, offering a vibrant, earthy indulgence that elevates your frozen treat experience.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Egg Yolks for an Egg-Free Version?
Absolutely, you can skip the egg yolks for an egg-free version. I’ve done it myself, substituting cornstarch for thickening. The texture was slightly different, but the taste remained delightful. Give it a try and enjoy!
Matcha Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Ice cream maker
- 1 Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and matcha powder over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become slightly thick.
- Gradually pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
- Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until completely chilled.
- Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.
