Green tea ice cream is not just any dessert. It combines the rich, earthy taste of matcha with the smooth creaminess of ice cream. This delicious treat not only satisfies your cravings but also brings the health perks of green tea, letting you indulge without guilt.
Did you know? Green tea has a history that goes back over 4,000 years! It first appeared in ancient China, where people started using it for its medicinal benefits. Over the years, it became a key part of various cultures, especially in Japan, where matcha plays a vital role in ceremonies. This recipe blends traditional methods with modern twists, allowing you to whip up a delicious green tea ice cream right at home.
Recipe Overview
Prep and Cook Time:
- Total Time: About 4 hours and 15 minutes (15 minutes prep plus 4 hours freezing).
Servings and Scaling Tips:
- This recipe makes around 8 servings. Planning a gathering? Feel free to double the ingredients—just make sure you have enough space in your freezer!
Difficulty Level:
- Easy! Perfect if you’re new to making ice cream and don’t need any fancy gadgets.
Equipment Needed:
- You’ll need a 1.5-quart reusable storage container for freezing. Don’t worry if you don’t have one; any airtight container will do. A whisk attachment on your mixer will help get the right texture.
Make-Ahead Options
You can make this ice cream a week in advance. When you’re ready to serve it, let it sit out for about 15 minutes to soften up.
Ingredients
Full List:
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Substitutions:
- Prefer something lighter? Use light whipping cream.
- Going dairy-free? Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a non-dairy condensed milk.
Quality Notes:
- Choose high-quality matcha for the best color and flavor. Ceremonial-grade is top-notch, but culinary-grade works too.
Prep Tips:
- Chill your mixing bowl beforehand. This helps create a better whipped cream.
Step-by-Step Method
Let’s make some tasty green tea ice cream!
- Whip the Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk. Whip it for about one minute using the whisk attachment on your mixer. It will lighten in color and get a bit airy—that’s what you want!
- Incorporate the Cream: Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Turn your mixer to high speed and whip until you see stiff peaks, which should take about 3-5 minutes. When you lift the whisk, the peaks should hold their shape.
- Add Flavor: Time to mix in the matcha! Sprinkle the matcha powder and pour in the vanilla extract. Keep whipping until everything is mixed well, and you’ll have a beautiful green-hued mixture.
- Freezing Time: Pour the mixture into an insulated ice cream container, or you can use a lined meatloaf pan to make serving easier later. Freeze it for at least four hours (overnight is even better!).
- Serving Up: When you’re ready to dig in, take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it sit for 15 minutes before scooping. This makes it easier to serve!
Variations & Customization
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Make it Vegan: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based condensed milk.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for an exciting twist.
- Fancy it Up: Serve with edible flowers or drizzle dark chocolate on top for a nice touch.
- Summer Treat: Pair it with fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches for a refreshing dessert.
Serving & Storage
When serving your green tea ice cream, think about presentation! Use elegant bowls or homemade waffle cones to make it special.
- Best Pairings: This ice cream works wonders with Asian desserts like mochi or as a side to fruit tarts.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.
- Make-Ahead Guidance: You can prepare it a few days early—just store it well in the freezer!
Now you’re all set to create your own delicious green tea ice cream! Enjoy every scoop and savor its rich history and cultural significance. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of tradition!
PrintGreen Tea Ice Cream
Indulge in the creamy delight of homemade green tea ice cream, a perfect blend of rich matcha flavor and velvety texture. This refreshing dessert not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also offers the health benefits of green tea. Inspired by traditional Japanese flavors, this easy recipe is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes freezing time)
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Whip the Base: In a large, chilled mixing bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk. Using a whisk attachment, whip for about 1 minute until light and airy.
- Incorporate Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream and beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Flavor It Up: Gently mix in the matcha green tea powder and vanilla extract until fully combined, ensuring a uniform green color.
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture to an insulated ice cream storage container or a lined meatloaf pan. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a firmer texture.
- Serve: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this ice cream on its own or pair it with fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches for a delightful contrast.
- Tips & Tricks: Ensure your mixing bowl is well-chilled before starting to achieve better whipped cream consistency. Use high-quality matcha for the best flavor and color.
- Storage Instructions: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Let it sit out for about 15 minutes before scooping to make serving easier.