This four-ingredient banana hojicha nice cream is so good you’ll forget it’s not actually ice cream. Made with blended frozen bananas, hojicha powder, and cinnamon, it’s a treat that tastes indulgent but isn’t. Plus, this delicious and easy hojicha nice cream doesn’t require an ice cream maker! Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream or just a refreshing treat, this recipe will be your new favorite!
This hojicha nice cream is creamy and dreamy and requires only four simple ingredients. It can also be made without any added sugars- just look for ripe and sweet bananas! The natural sweetness of bananas and the roasted, nutty notes of hojicha powder create a rich and delicious treat perfect for any time of day.
What you’ll need:
Bananas: Opt for ripe bananas. You’ll need to freeze before using.
Hojicha: This recipe calls for one teaspoon hojicha powder.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the roasted notes of the hojicha.
Maple Syrup: If your bananas are ripe enough, you may not need to add any sweetener. Taste and adjust as needed.
What is hojicha?
Hojicha is a type of roasted green tea often described as having both nutty and sweet notes. Unlike traditional green tea, hojicha undergoes a roasting process that gives it a distinct toasty aroma and smooth taste. It has all the benefits of green tea without any of the bitterness. Hojicha pairs beautifully with cinnamon and chocolate, making it an excellent ingredient for baking and cooking.
Ingredients:
2 cups frozen banana, chopped (about 2 large bananas)
1 teaspoon hojicha powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
Directions:
1. Peel bananas and cut them into 1 or 2” slices. Place in the freezer for ~3 hours.
2. Pulse on low to break the banana into small chunks. Gradually turn up speed and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture, or freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer consistency.
Topping Ideas:
This ice cream is delicious all on its own, but adding your favorite toppings can make it even more indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying this as a midday treat or for dessert, here are a few topping suggestions.
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Nut butter: Add a drizzle of your favorite nut butter. Since hojicha naturally has a nutty flavor, any nut butter would be delicious!
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Chocolate: Hojicha pairs excellently with chocolate. Try adding a few chocolate chips or a drizzle of hot fudge.
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Fresh fruit: Any fresh fruit would be delicious with this hojicha nice cream.
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Chopped nuts: For a little extra crunch, try adding hazelnuts, walnuts, or chopped almonds.
Recipe Tips:
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Peel and chop the banana before freezing for easier handling. We always like to keep some frozen bananas on hand for when the mood strikes!
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Add a teaspoon of non-dairy milk if the ice cream is too thick.
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Add a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder if you're a chocolate lover.
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If blending is difficult, let the bananas sit for a few minutes to soften before trying again. You can also add a teaspoon or two of non-dairy milk.
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Freeze in an air-tight container for up to one month. When ready to enjoy again, allow the nice cream to thaw for about 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
Bottom Line:
This hojicha nice cream is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional ice cream. With only a few simple ingredients, it’s also easy to whip up whenever the craving hits. It's sweet and creamy and full of flavor.
