If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both creamy and refreshing with a distinct flavor twist, matcha ice cream hits all the right notes. This green tea ice cream recipe delivers a smooth, velvety texture and a balanced earthy sweetness that stands out from traditional ice cream flavors.
Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder from Japan, offers a vibrant color and a naturally bittersweet taste. When blended with a creamy ice cream base, it creates a dessert that’s rich but not overly sweet. It’s the kind of treat that’s satisfying without being heavy.
Homemade matcha ice cream is a great way to control the level of sweetness and quality of ingredients. This recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker, though you can certainly use one for an even smoother result. The no-churn method keeps things simple and accessible.
With just a few ingredients—cream, condensed milk, and matcha powder—you can make a batch of this elegant dessert in under 15 minutes of active time. Then just freeze and scoop when ready.
It’s ideal for summer, but also works beautifully year-round as a palate cleanser or paired with mochi, fresh berries, or a drizzle of dark chocolate.
Matcha is known for its health benefits too, including antioxidants and natural energy, so this treat has more to offer than just great flavor. But really, it’s the creamy texture and bold green tea flavor that keeps people coming back for more.
You can adjust the intensity by choosing a ceremonial grade matcha for a smoother taste or culinary grade for a more robust profile. Either way, the result is an ice cream that’s unique, beautiful, and deliciously unexpected.
The color alone makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. Its rich green hue pops next to white plates or colorful garnishes. It’s one of those desserts that’s both refined and easy to make.
Servings: Makes about 6 servings
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freeze Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder (culinary or ceremonial grade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, sift matcha powder to remove any clumps.
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix condensed milk with matcha and vanilla until fully blended.
- Fold whipped cream into the matcha mixture in batches until smooth and uniform.
- Pour into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container and smooth the top.
- Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours or until firm.
Tips:
- Sift matcha to avoid bitterness and clumps.
- Use cold equipment for better whipping.
- Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.
- Pair with mochi or dark chocolate for a sophisticated touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bold green tea flavor with creamy texture
- No churn and only a few ingredients
- Naturally vibrant and visually appealing
- Customizable sweetness and matcha strength
- Unique alternative to standard ice cream flavors
This matcha ice cream recipe blends creamy sweetness with the earthy, energizing flavor of green tea. No ice cream maker needed—just a handful of ingredients and a few hours in the freezer for a deliciously different frozen dessert.
