Matcha Ice Cream

This matcha ice cream is made with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free treat. Infused with fresh mint flavor and indulgent chunks of chocolate, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make over and over.

I’ve tried for years, YEARS! to like green tea. No matter how you slice or dice it though, I’m sorry, it tastes like bitter grass. I know a big issue is steeping it too long, something I’ve learned really makes the bitterness come out, but even when steeped appropriately, I still just can’t handle it. It makes my mouth feel disgusting (like spinach does) and I pretty much gag upon the first sip.

However, I have figured out that when it’s blended or baked with other things like in these matcha shortbread cookies or this matcha bread I can deal with it. In fact, I actually enjoy it.

Everywhere you turn these days, you hear about how great green tea (or more so the antioxidants in the tea) is for you. So an idea popped into my head — If I like it with mint in tea form, how could I not like it with mint, coconut, chocolate and of course, sugar in ice cream form?

So I walked my butt into the nearest hipster tea shop by me, proceeded to drop my jaw on the floor when I saw the price tag of the tiniest container of this stuff and checked out with the teal-haired cashier so I could be on my merry way to make matcha my bitch.

A few hours later, some prayers over the ice cream attachment as it churned (why does that part always make me so nervous?!) and an impatient wait while it set up in the freezer, I finally dished out a small scoop to see where matcha and I stood.

Verdict? Worth the $10 for 1/2 an ounce. I think I finally found a way to enjoy this stuff. Ice cream > tea.

I love the bright green color it gives to the ice cream too. It’s a great natural way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day if food dye isn’t your thing (or give this Baileys ice cream a try instead).

Matcha 101: All About Matcha

Matcha is more than just powdered green tea. It’s a tradition, an art, and for many a daily ritual. Made from shade-grown tea leaves that are carefully steamed, dried and stone-ground, matcha has a smooth, almost velvety texture and a bold, earthy flavor. Though it first appeared in China, it truly found its place in Japan where it became a staple in tea ceremonies and an integral part of the culture.

Not all matcha is created equal. There’s premium grade, which has a hint of bitterness and a slightly coarser feel but works well as a more affordable alternative for tea rituals. Then there’s ceremonial grade—the best of the best. It’s delicate, smooth and meant to be sipped on its own. Culinary grade is a little stronger and more robust, making it perfect for lattes, baked goods and even ice cream. Whether you drink it straight or mix it into your favorite recipe, matcha brings a distinctive richness you won’t find in regular green tea.

Some Health Benefits of Matcha

• Matcha green tea powder is concentrated. It’s like packing a bunch of green tea into a tiny spoonful. In fact, one cup of matcha tea has as many antioxidants as ten cups of brewed green tea.
• Matcha is a natural relaxer thanks to the amino acid L-Theanine, which produces alpha waves in the brain, inducing relaxation.
• L-Theanine also helps produce dopamine and serotonin, two chemicals that enhance your mood and improve memory and concentration.
• Matcha supports metabolism and may help with weight management by promoting fat oxidation and increasing calorie burn.

Why You’ll Love This Matcha Ice Cream Recipe

• The fresh mint and earthy matcha make this ice cream recipe cool, smooth and packed with flavor.
• Coconut milk keeps it creamy without the need for dairy.
• No eggs means fewer steps, less hassle and a simpler ice cream making process.
• Chocolate chunks add just the right amount of richness to balance the bold flavors.
• Naturally gluten-free, so more people can enjoy it without worry.

What You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients that come together for a refreshing treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Coconut Cream: Adds a rich and creamy base for the ice cream.
• Mint Leaves: Steeped with the coconut milk to infuse a fresh minty flavor in a natural way.
• Peppermint Extract: Enhances the mint flavor without overpowering it. You can also use peppermint essential oil.
• Matcha Powder: Provides the distinct green tea flavor and vibrant color.
• Dark Chocolate: Chopped into chunks for a decadent texture.
• Sugar and Maple Syrup: Sweeten the ice cream naturally.
• Vodka (optional): Helps improve texture when freezing.

How to Make Homemade Matcha Ice Cream

Making homemade matcha ice cream is easier than you’d think, and the results are well worth it. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a creamy, refreshing treat packed with bold matcha flavor, a hint of mint and rich chocolate chunks.

Infuse the Coconut Milk

Place the coconut cream and mint leaves in a small saucepan. Stir gently over medium-low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

Combine the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled coconut milk (with mint leaves removed), peppermint extract, sugar, maple syrup and matcha powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–2 hours. This ensures the mixture is cool before churning.

Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream machine and churn the matcha ice cream according to the manufacturer’s instructions of your ice cream maker. Add the chocolate chunks during the last minute of churning so they’re evenly distributed in the mixture.

Freeze and Serve

Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container with a lid. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften before scooping.

What Does It Taste Like?

This green tea ice cream recipe has a subtly earthy taste that’s well balanced with natural sweetness and refreshing mint flavor. The texture is creamy and velvety thanks to the high-fat content of the coconut cream.

How To Store Homemade Matcha Ice Cream

Like any other homemade ice cream, store this in an airtight, freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid.

More Dairy-Free Ice Cream Recipes

If you can’t do milk but still want to indulge in a creamy ice cream treat, try this roasted strawberry mint ice cream or this coconut coffee ice cream.