Jul 13 2026

Gelato Recipe

Time5h
Serves6

Creamy Italian ice cream available in various flavors.

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Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

Method

Preparation of Gelato Base

  1. 1

    Heat Milk and Cream

    In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat gently over medium heat until just steaming, but do not boil.

  2. 2

    Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.

  3. 3

    Combine Mixtures

    Slowly pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

  4. 4

    Cook the Mixture

    Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (around 170°F or 77°C).

  5. 5

    Add Vanilla

    Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Churning and Freezing

  1. 6

    Chill the Base

    Cover the cooled mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop flavor.

  2. 7

    Churn the Mixture

    Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

  3. 8

    Add Flavorings

    If desired, add your choice of fruit puree, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts during the last few minutes of churning.

  4. 9

    Freeze the Gelato

    Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.

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