Giving a classic ice cream flavor an Asian twist! This no-churn hojicha cookies and cream ice cream has a lovely roasted tea flavor for a rich and indulgent treat.
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What makes this recipe special
The last three times I tried to order hojicha soft serve at 3 different establishments, they were sold out. Who knew hojicha was such a popular flavor? I suppose it makes sense because I love all things hojicha. Since I'm not able to buy any, I guess I have to make it myself.
And since I'm creating my ice cream, I'm going to go all out and combine my two favorite flavors into one. No-churn hojicha cookies and cream ice cream anyone? I have plenty to share! And if you're looking for another no-churn ice cream, check out my peach shortcake ice cream recipe!
Ingredients
- Heavy cream: Heavy cream forms the base of the ice cream, providing the necessary fat content. When whipped, it incorporates air, giving the ice cream a light and airy consistency.
- Hojicha tea leaves: Hojicha tea leaves infuse the cream with a distinct, roasted, and slightly smoky flavor, making the ice cream unique.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Provides the primary sweetness for the ice cream and helps prevent the formation of large ice crystals, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Oreos: Adds familiar cookies and cream flavor that complements the hojicha.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Infuse cream
As tempting as it is to buy an ice cream maker, I never did. Knowing me, if I did own one, I would be making ice cream every week. My pants would not be happy.
This means that if I do decide to make the dessert, I have to go the no-churn method. Luckily, it's an easy shortcut and the end result is pretty darn great.
Since this particular no-churn ice cream is flavored with hojicha, we have to take an extra step. We need to infuse the heavy cream with the tea before we can whip it up.
The type of tea you use will make a difference in the end result. Try to use high-quality tea leaves if you can. I discovered that tea bags don't deliver the same intensity as the more expensive loose tea leaves. You can still use the tea bags but may have to adjust the amount of tea.
Simmer heavy cream with hojicha tea leaves over low heat for 5 minutes - keep the flames on low and make sure not to boil the cream. If you overheat the cream, it can become bitter. Remove the cream from heat and let it sit for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare ice cream
Strain the infused cream, discarding the tea leaves. Then, let it chill for at least 4 hours or better yet, overnight. You need the cream to be cold or else it won't whip properly.
If your kitchen is particularly warm, go ahead and chill the mixing bowl and whisk for 30 minutes before using.
Beat the infused cream in the stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Then, add the sweetened condensed milk and beat together until the cream stiffens up again.
While the ice cream is whipping, crush Oreos into small chunks. If you want your hojicha cookies and cream ice cream on the sweeter side, use 12 cookies. I found 10 to be my perfect number but you can add slightly less or more depending on your preference. Just remember the more Oreos, the sweeter the ice cream.
Transfer the ice cream into a 9x5 inch loaf pan and sprinkle extra crushed Oreos on top. As tempting as it is to dive right in, pop the hojicha cookies and cream ice cream in the freezer and let it chill for at least 5 hours.
The second the five hours were up, I immediately grabbed the ice cream and helped myself to two scoops. I absolutely loved the nutty tea flavor paired with the sweet cookies. The hojicha flavor is present but not overwhelming and the sweetness was just right. The best part? I can help myself to seconds!
Make-ahead and storage
- Make-ahead: Since the dessert needs time to chill, it's best to prepare it the day before.
- Store: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 1 month.
Frequently asked questions
Hojicha is a type of Japanese green tea that is roasted, giving it a distinct, smoky flavor. You can find hojicha tea leaves at specialty tea shops, Asian grocery stores, or online.
While hojicha provides a unique flavor, you can experiment with other teas like matcha or Earl Grey. However, the flavor profile will be different.
The cream should have a noticeable hojicha aroma and a light brown color after simmering and steeping for an hour. Taste a small amount to ensure the flavor is to your liking.
More tea-flavored dessert recipes
Looking for more tea-flavored dessert ideas? Try these:
Recipe
Hojicha Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream (500 ml)
- 6 tablespoons loose hojicha tea leaves (24 grams or 12 tea bags)
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 10 Oreos crushed
Instructions
- Combine heavy cream and tea leaves in a medium pot. Bring to a simmer over low heat and continue to simmer for 5 minutes. The cream should barely be bubbling. Remove from heat and let sit for 1 hour. Strain tea leaves and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Pour infused cream into bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk until stiff peaks form. Add condensed milk and whisk for another 2 minutes or until stiff peaks form.
- Set aside 2 tablespoons of crushed Oreos. Add remaining Oreos to ice cream, folding in cookies to combine. Transfer ice cream to a 9x5 inch loaf pan and sprinkle remaining crushed cookies on top. Freeze for at least 5 hours or overnight.
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