Matcha Affogato Recipe
Introduction
Matcha affogato is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining creamy vanilla ice cream with the earthy, vibrant flavor of matcha green tea. It’s quick to make and offers a refreshing balance between hot and cold, perfect for a simple yet elegant treat.

Ingredients
- 2-3 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
- 3 ounces hot water (160-175 °F)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the water to between 160 and 175 °F. Sift the matcha powder through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove any lumps. Add the hot water to the matcha and whisk until smooth and frothy using a bamboo whisk, electric matcha whisk, or by shaking it in a cocktail shaker.
- Step 2: Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a small cup or bowl, then pour the warm matcha shot directly over the ice cream.
- Step 3: Optionally, garnish the affogato with an extra sprinkle of matcha powder. For an extra special touch, serve with a matcha-flavored biscuit stick like Pocky.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality ceremonial grade matcha for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
- Try different ice cream flavors like coconut or almond to complement the matcha.
- Chill your serving glasses beforehand to keep the affogato cool longer.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based ice cream such as coconut or soy vanilla.
Storage
Because this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, it’s recommended to prepare and serve immediately. If you have leftover matcha, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but avoid reheating as it may change the flavor. Leftover ice cream should be kept in the freezer.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular green tea instead of matcha?
Regular green tea won’t provide the same creamy texture or intensity of flavor that matcha offers. Matcha powder is finely ground and fully dissolves, giving a rich taste that works perfectly with ice cream.
What’s the ideal water temperature for making matcha?
The water should be heated to about 160-175 °F (70-80 °C). Water that is too hot can make the matcha taste bitter, while cooler water won’t fully dissolve the powder.
PrintMatcha Affogato Recipe
A refreshing and unique dessert combining rich vanilla ice cream with a warm, frothy matcha shot for a delightful fusion of creamy sweetness and earthy bitterness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Matcha Affogato Ingredients
- 2–3 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
- 3 ounces hot water (160–175 °F)
- Optional garnish: additional matcha powder, Pocky matcha biscuit stick
Instructions
- Heat water and prepare matcha: Heat water to approximately 160-175 °F. Sift the matcha powder through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Whisk matcha: Add the heated water to the sifted matcha powder and whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Use a traditional bamboo whisk, an electric matcha whisk, or shake vigorously in a cocktail shaker.
- Serve ice cream: Scoop 2-3 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into a small cup or bowl.
- Pour matcha shot: Pour the warm, frothy matcha mixture directly over the ice cream, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and enjoy: Optionally sprinkle a little extra matcha powder on top and serve with a Pocky matcha biscuit stick for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature is not boiling to preserve the delicate flavor of matcha and avoid bitterness.
- Sifting the matcha powder is essential to remove clumps and achieve a smooth drink.
- Adjust the amount of ice cream or matcha according to personal preference for sweetness or bitterness.
- Using higher quality ceremonial grade matcha enhances flavor and aroma.
- This dessert is best enjoyed immediately after preparing to maintain the contrast between hot and cold elements.
Keywords: Matcha affogato, vanilla ice cream dessert, matcha dessert, Japanese dessert, green tea affogato

