Creamy Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream Recipe

Looking for a refreshing and exotic dessert that’s both healthy and indulgent? The Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream Recipe brings together the earthy richness of ceremonial-grade matcha with the creamy smoothness of traditional ice cream. Popular in Japanese cuisine and increasingly loved around the world, this ice cream is not only visually appealing with its vibrant green color but also packed with antioxidants and flavor.

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. Unlike steeped green tea, where the leaves are discarded, matcha allows you to consume the entire leaf, giving you more nutrients and a stronger flavor. This makes matcha a perfect ingredient for desserts where its robust, slightly bitter taste contrasts beautifully with sweetness.

In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through a homemade matcha green tea ice cream recipe that requires no fancy equipment and minimal ingredients. It’s a delightful treat whether you’re a seasoned matcha lover or exploring it for the first time.

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🧾 Ingredients

Here are the essential ingredients you need to make creamy matcha green tea ice cream at home:

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon ceremonial-grade matcha powder (culinary grade can be used for a more economical version)

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for added sweetness and depth of flavor.

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🍽️ Equipment

To prepare this delicious ice cream, you will need:

• Medium saucepan

• Whisk

• Fine mesh sieve

• Mixing bowls

• Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)

• Freezer-safe container

• Rubber spatula

• Kitchen thermometer (optional but helpful)

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⏱️ Time Required

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting/Chilling Time: 4–6 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes (including freezing time)

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🍵 Cuisines

• Japanese

• Fusion Dessert

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🍨 Course

• Dessert

• Frozen Treat

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🍴 Servings

• Serves: 6–8

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🔥 Calories

• Calories per serving: Approximately 270–310 kcal

(Note: This can vary slightly based on the brand of cream, milk, and sugar used.)

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🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290

• Total Fat: 21g

• Saturated Fat: 13g

• Cholesterol: 165mg

• Sodium: 30mg

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Sugars: 20g

• Protein: 5g

• Vitamin A: 750 IU

• Calcium: 100mg

• Antioxidants: High (thanks to matcha)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the Matcha

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tablespoons of warm (not boiling) water to form a smooth paste. This helps dissolve the powder evenly and prevents clumping in your final mix.

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Step 2: Heat Milk Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the milk is steaming but not boiling. Stir constantly to avoid scorching.

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Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and smooth. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them (this prevents the eggs from scrambling). Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.

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Step 4: Cook the Custard

Return the saucepan to low heat. Stir continuously with a rubber spatula, making sure to scrape the bottom. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (170°F–175°F on a kitchen thermometer). Do not boil.

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Step 5: Add Matcha and Cream

Remove the custard from heat. Add the prepared matcha paste, stirring until fully incorporated. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.

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Step 6: Strain and Chill

Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits or matcha lumps. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.

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Step 7: Churn the Ice Cream

If using an ice cream maker, churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–30 minutes) until the mixture reaches soft-serve consistency.

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Step 8: Freeze to Set

Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.

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Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls or cones and serve! Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder or pair it with mochi, fruit, or a drizzle of condensed milk.

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💡 Tips and Variations

• No ice cream maker? Freeze the custard in a shallow container. Stir vigorously every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours to break up ice crystals.

• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk.

• Flavor twist: Add a bit of white chocolate, chopped pistachios, or toasted sesame seeds for texture and contrast.

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🌿 Why Choose Matcha?

Matcha isn’t just trendy — it’s genuinely good for you. It contains:

• Catechins (EGCG): Potent antioxidants that fight cell damage

• L-theanine: A natural compound that promotes calm without drowsiness

• Caffeine: A balanced energy boost without the crash of coffee

By incorporating matcha into your dessert, you’re not only enjoying a delightful treat but also reaping health benefits.

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Final Thoughts

Making homemade ice cream may sound intimidating, but once you try this Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream Recipe, you’ll realize how simple and rewarding it can be. With its creamy texture and subtly bitter, earthy notes from matcha, it offers a sophisticated alternative to classic flavors. Whether you’re cooling off in summer or craving a unique dessert after a meal, this Japanese-inspired treat is sure to impress.

Try this recipe at your next dinner party or make a big batch just for yourself — you deserve a little matcha magic in your life!