The matcha soft ice cream is a creamy and refreshing treat that combines the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of matcha green tea with the sweetness of traditional ice cream.
Making it at home make you control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a smooth, velvety matcha soft-serve ice cream.
Ingredients:
- Heavy Cream (2 cups, cold):
- Heavy cream is the base of the ice cream, providing richness and a creamy texture. Make sure it’s cold to help with the churning process.
- Substitution: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the texture will be less rich.
- Whole Milk (1 cup, cold):
- Whole milk adds a smooth consistency and balances the richness of the heavy cream. Cold milk helps the mixture churn faster.
- Substitution: You can use low-fat milk, but the ice cream may be less creamy.
- Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup):
- Sugar sweetens the ice cream and helps create a softer texture by lowering the freezing point.
- Substitution: You can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative like erythritol, but the texture and sweetness may vary.
- Matcha Powder (2-3 tablespoons):
- Using high-quality matcha ensures a vibrant green color and rich, earthy flavor. Culinary matcha is perfect for this recipe.
- Tip: Adjust the amount of matcha based on your preference. Begin with 2 tablespoons and gradually increase for a bolder flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, optional):
- Vanilla boosts the flavor and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Substitution: You can omit this or use other extracts like almond or coconut for a different twist.
- Pinch of Salt:
- Salt balances the sweetness and brings out the matcha’s flavor.
Equipment:
- Ice cream maker (essential for soft-serve texture)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container (for storage)
Instructions:

Prepare the Matcha Paste:
Matcha powder can clump when mixed directly with liquids, so it’s important to create a smooth paste first.
In a small bowl, add 2-3 tablespoons of matcha powder. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of cold milk while whisking vigorously to form a smooth, lump-free paste.
Tip: Use a fine-mesh sieve to sift the matcha powder before mixing to ensure it’s free of clumps.

Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, remaining milk, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar will fully dissolved.
Add the matcha paste, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored green.
Tip: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or matcha flavor as needed. Keep in mind that the flavor will mellow slightly once frozen.

Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap or a lid and place it in a refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is completely chilled and ready to use.
Why Chill?: Chilling the mixture ensures that it churns evenly and freezes properly. It also allows the flavors to blend seamlessly.

Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn as directed. This usually takes 20-30 minutes.
What to Look For: The ice cream should thicken and increase in volume, reaching a soft-serve consistency.
Tip: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired texture. This method requires more effort but still works.
Serve or Store:
For soft-serve ice cream, serve immediately. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!
For a firmer texture, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 2-3 hours.
Storage Tip: Place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Tips for Success:
- Use High-Quality Matcha:
- The quality of matcha powder significantly impacts the flavor and color of your ice cream. Look for bright green, finely ground matcha labeled as “culinary grade.”
- Keep Ingredients Cold:
- Cold ingredients churn faster and result in a smoother texture. Chill your mixing bowl and whisk if possible.
- Adjust Sweetness and Matcha Flavor:
- Taste the mixture before churning and adjust the sugar or matcha to suit your preferences. Remember that freezing dulls sweetness slightly.
- Prevent Ice Crystals:
- To avoid a grainy texture, ensure your ice cream maker’s bowl is fully frozen (if required) and churn the mixture until it’s thick and creamy.
- Experiment with Add-Ins:
- For an extra burst of texture and flavor, mix in chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even a dollop of red bean paste!
Variations:
- Dairy-Free:
- Replace the heavy cream and milk with a full-fat coconut milk or an almond milk. The flavor will slightly be different, but still delicious.
- Matcha Swirl Ice Cream:
- Layer the matcha ice cream with sweetened condensed milk or white chocolate sauce for a marbled effect.
- Matcha Affogato:
- Serve a scoop of the matcha soft ice cream with a shot of hot espresso for a sophisticated dessert.
- Matcha Mint Ice Cream:
- Add a few drops of peppermint extract to give it a cool, refreshing twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make it without ice cream maker?
Yes! Transfer the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it achieves a smooth, soft-serve texture.
Why is my ice cream too icy?
This can happen if the mixture isn’t churned enough or if there’s too much water content. Ensure you’re using full-fat dairy and churning until thick.
How long does a matcha soft ice cream last to make?
For best results, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy!
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but keep in mind that sugar affects texture as well as sweetness. Reducing it too much may result in a harder, icier ice cream.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with whipped cream, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with mochi, waffle cones, or fresh fruit for a complete dessert experience.
- Serve alongside traditional Japanese sweets like dorayaki or daifuku.