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My continuing search for vanilla and creamy flavored teas lead me to purchase a large amount of this matcha. The idea of cream and vanilla as flavoring for already smooth and creamy matcha seemed like a great idea. Red Leaf Tea was, of course, the perfect place to find such a creation. From my experience with their matcha so far, this could not be anything but excellent!

I had super high hopes as I opened the small silver envelope. The first sensation to reach my brain was a sharp scent that was oddly citrus. I had to sniff it again to make sure my nose wasn’t fooling me… Oddly there was still a citrusy scent. It definitely had cream scent and sensation as well, but the citrusy bit caught me by surprise. It smelled delicious, but not vanilla! At this point I decided to do some research on exactly what Bavarian Cream was. Perhaps my expectations of something super vanilla were not quite right…

I think it is appropriate to include a quick background of Bavarian Cream, for those who are not that familiar with it. Bavarian Cream gets its name from its supposed birth place: Bavaria. It is thought to have been first served in the 19th century. It is essentially cream that is flavored with liquor and thickened with gelatin. It is different to other cream desserts due to its thickening process. Most other cream desserts are thickened with corn starch or other thickening agents. Since Bavarian Cream is thickened with gelatin, it can be served in molds of various shapes and decorated with glazed or more cream. Or, if I were preparing it, vanilla liquor (or perhaps a dash of vanilla tea syrup… hmmm…)!

So, it turns out I was confused ! Bavarian cream is not necessarily vanilla flavored! Though, most recipes call for vanilla in a variety of concentrations. With this in mind, the scent is exactly as it should be. Smooth and creamy with a hint of citrus that I assume comes from the liquor.
Once prepared the citrus scent is mellower and the cream is more prominent. It foamed up delightfully as I whisked it. I think that the foam and creamy texture is my favorite part of matcha. My first sip was delightful. I was met with strong green tea flavor followed by a hint of citrus and a bunch of creamy smoothness. It felt like I was drinking a latte! While it wasn’t the vanilla I was expecting, the creaminess made up for it completely! I am super happy I bought the large one!
I really enjoyed this cup of matcha!! I can’t wait to prepare more!

If you want to try this (you really should if you like creamy teas!) you can find it here: http://www.redleaftea.com/matcha-tea/bavarian-cream-matcha.html