Nothing says fancy and refreshing like matcha ice cream—unless you find out you don't have an ice cream maker! But don't worry!

You won't need any fancy equipment to whip up this Japanese-inspired treat. Get ready to impress your taste buds and avoid the dreaded ice cream-making machine cleanup.

First, let's get some quick matcha facts out of the way. This finely ground powder of specially grown green tea leaves has been a staple in Japan for centuries and is praised for its vibrant color and earthy flavor. If you're planning to make matcha ice cream, quality matters! Opt for ceremonial-grade matcha to ensure a smooth, less bitter taste.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

- 2 cups of heavy whipping cream

- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)

- 2 tablespoons of matcha powder (ceremonial grade if possible)

Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes.

Freeze Time: 6 hours.

Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes.

Calories

For an average serving of matcha ice cream (112g), the calorie count is around 345 calories. This comes primarily from the heavy cream and condensed milk used in the recipe.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Whip it good: In a large bowl, whip your heavy cream until you get stiff peaks. This step adds the needed airiness to your ice cream (and gives your arm a little workout).

2. Mix the magic: In another bowl, combine the condensed milk and matcha powder. Make sure to sift your matcha powder to avoid clumping and mix until smooth. Nobody wants a matcha chunk surprise!

3. Fold it together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the matcha mixture until everything is smooth and well combined.

4. Freeze it: Pour the mix into a container and freeze for at least 6 hours. No churning is needed! Once set, scoop out ice cream balls, and voila - gourmet matcha ice cream at home.

How To Store It

Homemade matcha ice cream is best enjoyed right after blending, but if you need to store it, make sure to use an airtight, freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy a scoop (or two!), let the container sit at room temperature for about 3-5 minutes before digging in. If you're feeling extra fancy, serve the ice cream in a waffle cone, and sprinkle a little more matcha powder on top for that Instagram-worthy presentation!

Don't be afraid to get creative! You can toss in some chocolate chips, or nuts, or drizzle with honey for an extra treat. Whether you want to enjoy it solo or impress dinner guests, this recipe is a winner​!