1. What Flavour is azuki red bean?

Azuki beans have a mildly sweet, nutty, and almost earthy flavor. When sweetened and cooked, they develop a smooth, rich taste. Blending them into ice cream amplifies their subtle sweetness, creating a balanced dessert that’s not as sugary as typical Western-style flavors.

2. What does red bean ice cream taste like?

Compared to traditional vanilla or chocolate, red bean ice cream is gentler. It carries notes of sweetness, a hint of earthiness, and sometimes a soft grainy texture if whole beans are included. This combination can be surprisingly refreshing, especially if you’re used to heavier, sugar-laden ice creams.

3. Is azuki red bean healthy?

Azuki beans are known for their protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. They’re relatively low in fat (before being sweetened). When incorporated into desserts, they still provide beneficial nutrients—although sweetness is usually added in the form of sugar or syrup. Moderation remains key for a balanced diet.

4. Is red bean ice cream healthy?

Any ice cream, including red bean ice cream , contains added sugars and fats. However, thanks to the bean-based component, you get added fiber and micronutrients absent in standard ice cream flavors. You can opt for reduced sugar or dairy-free variations to make it lighter. The healthiest route is mindful portion sizes and possibly making it at home with controlled ingredients.

5. Can I make red bean ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes. No-churn methods involve whipping cream (or a non-dairy alternative) and folding in sweetened condensed milk plus azuki paste. It won’t match the ultra-smooth texture of churned ice cream, but it’s still creamy and delicious.

Azuki Red Bean Ice Cream: Creamy, Sweet, and Nutrient-Rich

Name: Azuki Red Bean Ice Cream: A Complete Guide to Japan’s Beloved Sweet Treat
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-487704H53M14S
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1¼ cups whole milk; ⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste); 15 oz sweet red bean paste (anko); Optional: 2 tsp toasted black sesame seeds or condensed milk for topping

Description

Azuki Red Bean Ice Cream – a traditional Japanese frozen dessert using sweet azuki bean paste, milk, and sugar; subtly nutty, lightly sweet, and best served chilled, often garnished with toasted black sesame or a drizzle of condensed milk.

Ingredients

Scale

1¼ cups whole milk

⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste)

15 oz sweet red bean paste (anko)

Optional: 2 tsp toasted black sesame seeds or condensed milk for topping

Instructions

1. Combine milk and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

2. Stir in red bean paste (anko) and heat until well blended (do not boil).

3. Let the mixture cool, then chill thoroughly in refrigerator.

4. Churn in ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions (approx 20 min).

5. Transfer to container and freeze 4–6 hours or until firm.

6. Serve chilled, sprinkled with toasted sesame or drizzled with condensed milk if desired.

Notes

Authentic texture uses smooth paste; tsubu‑anko (chunky) gives more bean texture.

Japanese style is firmer and less creamy, without heavy cream or eggs :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

Leftover ice cream may become very hard—let sit a few minutes before scooping for best texture :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 5
Category: Dessert
Method: Stove‑top cooking + ice cream maker
Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

Serving Size: ½ cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: azuki red bean ice cream recipe, Japanese dessert, anko ice cream