I understand the importance of indulging in high-quality, delicious treats that tickle the taste buds and warm the soul. That’s why I was so thrilled when I stumbled upon this luxurious flavor. Van Leeuwen, a brand renowned for its dedication to crafting ice cream that’s as pure as it is delicious, has certainly outdone itself with the Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry recipe.
Table of Contents
How to make Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry
Van Leeuwen Strawberry Matcha Latte ice cream is a unique flavor that combines the sweetness of strawberry ice cream with the earthy notes of matcha green tea. This blend creates a dessert that balances fruity and umami flavors.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Matcha Component
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder: (Tip: Use ceremonial-grade matcha for a bold yet smooth flavor.)
- ¼ cup (60ml) hot water: (To dissolve the matcha, ensure the water isn’t boiling—it should be around 175°F or 80°C.)
Strawberry Swirl
- 1 ½ cups (300g) fresh strawberries (hulled)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warm (don’t boil!).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This is your custard base. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a silky smooth texture. Let it cool, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
Step 2: Make the Matcha Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water to dissolve and create a smooth paste. Let it cool slightly, then stir it into the chilled ice cream base, mixing thoroughly to achieve an even green color.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down into a jam-like consistency (about 10–15 minutes).
- Use a blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for texture. Chill the strawberry sauce in the fridge until cold.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the matcha-infused ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20–30 minutes).
- Once churned, layer the ice cream and strawberry swirl in a container. Use a spoon or spatula to gently swirl the strawberry sauce into the ice cream for a beautiful marbled effect. Avoid fully mixing to preserve the visual contrast.
Step 5: Freeze
- Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours to set fully.
- Scoop, serve, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Quality matters: Use the best matcha powder you can afford, as it contributes significantly to the flavor. Similarly, fresh, ripe strawberries will yield a sweeter and more vibrant swirl.
- Texture perfection: Straining the custard ensures a silky consistency without lumps or curdled bits.
- Balance sweetness: Taste both the ice cream base and strawberry swirl during preparation. You can adjust the sugar levels depending on your preference.
- Storage: If stored for more than a few days, allow the ice cream to sit out for 5–10 minutes before scooping for the optimal creamy texture.
- Experiment: Feel free to add extras like crushed pistachios or white chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor!
What to serve with
Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream is a delightful and unique blend of flavors that stands out on its own. However, serving it with complementary accompaniments can enhance the experience, turning a simple dessert into a sophisticated and memorable treat.
1. Dessert Pairings
a. Pound Cake or Sponge Cake
Description: A slice of light and buttery pound cake or airy sponge cake makes an excellent base for a scoop of Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream. The subtle flavors of the cake allow the matcha and strawberry notes to shine.
Serving Tip: Toast slices of pound cake lightly to add a delightful crunch and warm contrast to the ice cream.
b. Mochi or Daifuku
Description: Traditional Japanese mochi or daifuku (sweet rice cakes filled with red bean paste) wonderfully complement the matcha component.
Serving Tip: Choose plain or subtly sweet mochi to balance the ice cream’s nuanced flavors.
2. Drink Pairings
a. Hot or Cold Tea
Description: Freshly brewed green tea, either hot or iced, can accentuate the matcha’s depth in the ice cream while aiding in digestion. The light bitterness of green tea makes it a perfect match for the sweet and fruity notes.
Serving Tip: Avoid overly sweetened teas. A mild Sencha or even a subtle white tea could be delightful.
b. Champagne or Sparkling Wine
Description: For a celebratory occasion, pair Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream with a glass of Champagne or a light sparkling wine. The effervescence of the beverage adds a refreshing contrast.
Serving Tip: Choose a dry or brut Champagne to cut through the richness of the Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream without adding extra sweetness.
3. Fresh Fruits
a. Berries Medley
Description: A side of fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and additional strawberries enriches the fruit flavors in the dessert.
Serving Tip: Drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the berries to add a touch of sophistication and depth.
b. Sliced Kiwi or Mango
Description: Tropical fruits like kiwi or mango can introduce a bright, tangy dimension that pairs well with both matcha and strawberry.
Serving Tip: Slice the fruits thinly and fan them out on the plate for a visually appealing presentation.
4. Toppings and Extras
a. Whipped Cream
Description: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top of your Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream can add a luxurious texture.
Serving Tip: For an enhanced flavour profile, infuse the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or almond extract.
b. Nuts and Seeds
Description: A sprinkle of chopped nuts (like pistachios or almonds) or seeds (such as sesame) adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavors that complement the matcha beautifully.
Serving Tip: Toast the nuts slightly to heighten their flavor and add warmth to the dish.
Ingredients Substitutes
Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream is known for its rich texture and the unique combination of earthy matcha and sweet strawberry flavors. Recreating such a dessert at home requires high-quality ingredients, but there may be situations where you need an alternative due to dietary restrictions, availability, or personal preferences.
1. Heavy Cream
Why It’s Needed:
Heavy cream provides the luxurious, creamy texture for Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry and contributes to its fat content, crucial for a smooth mouthfeel.
Substitutes:
Coconut Cream:
Why Use It: Coconut cream is an excellent non-dairy option with a similar richness and high-fat content.
Best for: Vegan/dairy-free adaptations.
Flavor Note: Adds a faint coconut flavor, which pairs nicely with matcha and strawberry.
Cashew Cream:
Why Use It: Homemade cashew cream (blended soaked cashews with water) mimics heavy cream’s texture and richness.
Best for: Vegan or lighter alternatives.
Flavor Note: Subtle nuttiness might alter the taste slightly but remains complementary.
Whole Milk + Butter:
Why Use It: A combination of whole milk and melted butter can replicate the fat content of heavy cream.
Best for: Non-vegan alternatives.
Ratio: Replace heavy cream with ¾ cup whole milk + ¼ cup melted butter.
2. Whole Milk
Why It’s Needed:
Milk provides the Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream with volume and helps balance the richness of the cream.
Substitutes:
Almond Milk:
Why Use It: Almond milk is a widely available non-dairy substitute.
Best for: Vegan or lactose-intolerant options.
Flavor Note: May slightly alter the flavor to include a nutty undertone.
Oat Milk:
Why Use It: Oat milk provides creaminess that is closer to regular milk than other non-dairy options.
Best for: Vegan recipes.
Flavor Note: Mildly sweet and neutral, great for keeping the focus on matcha and strawberry.
Soy Milk:
Why Use It: Soy milk’s protein structure works well in creating a creamy consistency.
Best for: Vegan or nut-free options.
Flavor Note: Neutral and reliable, it makes a good 1:1 swap.
3. Egg Yolks
Why They’re Needed:
Egg yolks act as an emulsifier, contributing to the ice cream’s creamy texture and rich flavor.
Substitutes:
Cornstarch + Milk Slurry:
Why Use It: A mix of cornstarch and milk thickens the base, mimicking the role of egg yolks.
Best for: Egg-free or vegan recipes.
Ratio: Use about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch per 2 egg yolks.
Aquafaba (Chickpea Brine):
Why Use It: Whipped aquafaba can replace egg yolks, especially in vegan recipes, providing a frothy texture.
Best for: Vegan or egg allergy-friendly recipes.
Flavor Note: Neutral, so it works without adding unwanted flavors.
Arrowroot Powder:
Why Use It: Arrowroot powder acts as a natural thickener, which is ideal for eggless adaptations.
Best for: Gluten- and egg-free diets.
Ratio: Use 1 teaspoon of arrowroot per 1 egg yolk.
4. Sugar
Why It’s Needed:
Sugar sweetens the ice cream and prevents large ice crystals from forming, ensuring a smooth texture.
Substitutes:
Honey:
Why Use It: Honey acts as a natural sweetener and stabilizer.
Best for: Non-vegan recipes.
Flavor Note: Adds a floral undertone, which works well with matcha and strawberry.
Maple Syrup:
Why Use It: Maple syrup is another natural sweetener with a distinct flavor.
Best for: Vegan or refined sugar-free options.
Flavor Note: Adds an earthy, caramel-like taste that may slightly alter the profile.
Coconut Sugar:
Why Use It: Coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index and a mild caramel flavor.
Best for: Healthy adaptations.
Flavor Note: Adds a slight depth without overpowering other flavors.
Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener:
Why Use It: These natural, zero-calorie sweeteners are perfect for low-sugar diets.
Best for: Keto or diabetic-friendly recipes.
Ratio: Use sparingly as they are much sweeter than granulated sugar.
5. Matcha Powder
Why It’s Needed:
The matcha powder provides the characteristic green tea flavor and color.
Substitutes:
Green Tea Leaves (Brewing):
Why Use It: Brewed green tea can offer a similar flavor, though less intense.
Best for: When matcha powder is not available.
Use: Brew strong green tea, reduce it, and mix it into the base.
Spirulina Powder:
Why Use It: Spirulina can mimic the vibrant green color, though it lacks the tea flavor.
Best for: Adding color in a pinch.
Flavor Note: It has a slightly grassy taste, so use sparingly.
Instant Matcha Latte Powder:
Why Use It: Pre-mixed powders can work when pure matcha is unavailable.
Note: Be mindful of added sugar or milk content in these pre-mixed powders.
6. Strawberries
Why They’re Needed:
Strawberries provide a natural sweetness, color, and fruity balance to the earthy matcha.
Substitutes:
Fresh Raspberries:
Why Use It: Raspberries offer a tart flavor similar to strawberries.
Best for: Adding a berry flavor without strawberries.
Flavor Note: Slightly tangier, which can add a refreshing twist.
Frozen Strawberries:
Why Use Them: Frozen strawberries are a direct substitute if fresh ones are unavailable.
Preparation Tip: Thaw completely and remove excess moisture before using.
Strawberry Jam or Preserve:
Why Use It: Strawberry jam intensifies the fruity flavor and adds a smoother texture.
Best for: Recipes where fresh fruits are not practical.
Tip: Reduce added sugar in the recipe if using sweetened jam.
Mango or Peach Puree:
Why Use It: These fruits provide a creamy texture and complementary sweetness in place of strawberries.
Best for: Tropical-inspired renditions.
Flavor Note: Will alter the recipe slightly, adding a unique twist.
7. Vanilla Extract
Why It’s Needed:
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor and complements both matcha and strawberry.
Substitutes:
Almond Extract:
Why Use It: Almond extract adds a nutty depth, which compliments matcha beautifully.
Best for: Non-vanilla variations.
Use: Reduce quantity (it’s stronger than vanilla).
Maple Extract:
Why Use It: Maple extract adds richness and warmth similar to vanilla.
Best for: A unique flavor twist.
Scraped Vanilla Bean:
Why Use It: Vanilla beans add a more intense and pure vanilla flavor.
Best for: Premium adaptations.
Final Thoughts
With this recipe, you’ll not only capture the essence of Van Leeuwen Matcha Strawberry ice cream but also create a dessert rich in flavor and perfectly balanced.
More Ice Cream Recipes:
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Matcha Component
- 2 tablespoons high-quality matcha powder
- ¼ cup (60ml) hot water
Strawberry Swirl
- 1 ½ cups (300g) fresh strawberries (hulled)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warm (don’t boil!).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This is your custard base. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a silky smooth texture. Let it cool, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
Step 2: Make the Matcha Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with hot water to dissolve and create a smooth paste. Let it cool slightly, then stir it into the chilled ice cream base, mixing thoroughly to achieve an even green color.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down into a jam-like consistency (about 10–15 minutes).
- Use a blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for texture. Chill the strawberry sauce in the fridge until cold.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the matcha-infused ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20–30 minutes).
- Once churned, layer the ice cream and strawberry swirl in a container. Use a spoon or spatula to gently swirl the strawberry sauce into the ice cream for a beautiful marbled effect. Avoid fully mixing to preserve the visual contrast.
Step 5: Freeze
- Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours to set fully.
- Scoop, serve, and enjoy!
