Red Bean Ice Cream Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Red bean ice cream is a delightful treat that marries the creamy richness of traditional ice cream with the subtly sweet, earthy flavors of red beans. This dessert is a beloved favorite in many Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China, where red beans are commonly used in sweets and pastries.

If you’ve never tried red bean ice cream before, get ready to experience a unique and comforting combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for summer days or as a cool finish to any meal, this homemade version is easy to make and allows you to control the sweetness and texture to suit your preferences.

Whether you are a fan of Asian desserts or simply looking to try something new, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and a smooth, creamy texture that will impress your family and friends.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate the nutritional benefits of red beans into a dessert that feels indulgent but is full of wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red bean ice cream recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses natural ingredients and avoids artificial flavors or colors, making it a wholesome choice.

The red beans add a unique texture that’s pleasantly chunky yet soft, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy ice cream base.

It’s also incredibly versatile: you can adjust the sweetness, add different toppings, or even turn it vegan by using coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy. Plus, making it at home means you can skip preservatives and customize it exactly how you like.

From the rich, nutty flavor of the red beans to the smooth creaminess of the ice cream, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore new tastes or enjoy a nostalgic treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup adzuki red beans (dried or canned)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups whole milk (or coconut milk for vegan option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Ice cream maker
• Fine mesh sieve or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or food processor (optional, for smoother texture)
• Freezer-safe container for storing the ice cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the red beans: If using dried adzuki beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse again before cooking. If using canned beans, rinse and drain well.
2. Cook the beans: Place the soaked beans in a medium saucepan and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 45-60 minutes until beans are tender but not mushy. Drain excess water and set aside to cool.
3. Sweeten the beans: Transfer the cooked beans to a bowl and add 1/2 cup of sugar. Mix gently and let the beans absorb the sugar for about 30 minutes. For a smoother texture, you can mash or blend half of the beans at this stage.
4. Make the ice cream base: In a separate saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil.
5. Cool the base: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This helps the ice cream churn better.
6. Combine beans and base: Once chilled, stir the sweetened red beans into the ice cream base. Mix well to distribute the beans evenly.
7. Churn the ice cream: Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
8. Freeze until firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up the texture.
9. Serve and enjoy: Scoop out your homemade red bean ice cream and enjoy immediately. For extra flair, garnish with additional sweetened red beans, a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan version, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Also, opt for maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar for a natural sweetener option.”

• Texture control: If you prefer a chunkier ice cream, add whole sweetened red beans. For a smoother version, mash or blend the beans before mixing them in.
• Sweetness adjustment: Adjust the sugar amount depending on your taste or the sweetness of the beans you use.
• Flavor boosts: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for a subtle twist.
• Extra mix-ins: Try incorporating small mochi pieces or crushed roasted peanuts for added texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Red bean ice cream can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of ways to serve it for an elevated dessert experience. Try pairing it with warm mochi, fresh fruit like mango or strawberries, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

It also goes beautifully atop a bowl of shaved ice for a refreshing summer treat.

For a more traditional Asian-style dessert, serve your ice cream alongside sweet rice cakes or with a cup of green tea to balance the sweetness. You can also incorporate it into a dessert bowl with other Asian dessert staples like tapioca pearls or sweetened condensed milk.

Conclusion

Making red bean ice cream at home is a rewarding experience that brings a deliciously unique dessert to your table. This recipe combines the natural sweetness and earthy flavor of adzuki beans with the creamy smoothness of ice cream, creating a treat that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Whether you’re a fan of Asian desserts or just curious to try something new, this ice cream is easy to customize and perfect for any occasion.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can craft this delightful dessert from scratch, impressing family and friends alike. For more exciting and wholesome recipes, don’t forget to check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, explore fresh ideas in our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, or warm up with comforting flavors in the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy, sweet bite!

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