5 Easy Gelato Recipes for Summer Treats

If you're looking for a delightful way to cool down this summer, there's nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of gelato. This Italian frozen dessert, known for its rich flavors and creamy texture, can be enjoyed right at home with these easy recipes. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, these recipes require minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for summer treats. Here's how you can whip up your own gelato and impress your friends and family:

1. Classic Chocolate Gelato

If chocolate is your flavor of choice, this classic chocolate gelato will not disappoint:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup cocoa powder
• 4 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

To make:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and cocoa in a saucepan until it reaches just below boiling point, stirring continuously.
2. Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolate, and stir until melted.
3. Once it’s mixed, stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze until firm, about 4-6 hours, before serving.

2. Strawberry Gelato

Strawberries are synonymous with summer, and this gelato recipe brings out their refreshing flavor:

• 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¹⁄₂ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

To make:

1. Purée the strawberries until smooth.
2. In a saucepan, combine the purée, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat, cool, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Combine the strawberry mixture with the heavy cream and churn in an ice cream maker.
5. Freeze for at least 3-4 hours before serving.

3. Mint Chocolate Chip Gelato

Here’s a recipe that combines the coolness of mint with the richness of chocolate:

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp pure mint extract
• ¹⁄₂ cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate
• A few drops of green food coloring (optional)

To make:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream with sugar until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
2. Remove from heat, add mint extract and food coloring if using, and stir.
3. Cool the mixture to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Churn in an ice cream maker, adding the chocolate chips towards the end of the churning process.
5. Freeze until set, ideally overnight.

4. Coconut Gelato

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this coconut gelato recipe:

• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ³⁄₄ cup sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

To make:

1. Heat the coconut milk and cream with sugar until warm. Do not let it boil.
2. Remove from heat, add shredded coconut and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture to remove the coconut flakes, then cool and refrigerate overnight.
4. Churn in your ice cream maker.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

5. Lemon Basil Gelato

A unique combination that’s both refreshing and aromatic:

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ³⁄₄ cup sugar
• 5-6 basil leaves, torn
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons

To make:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream with sugar until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the basil leaves and lemon zest. Let it steep for about 10 minutes off the heat.
3. Strain the mixture, add lemon juice, then chill for several hours or overnight.
4. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the instructions.
5. Freeze until ready to serve.

These gelato recipes are perfect for any summer occasion, providing a sweet treat that's both indulgent and refreshing. With minimal ingredients and a bit of patience, you can recreate these delightful flavors in your own kitchen. The key to perfect gelato lies in slow churning and allowing it to rest after churning to achieve that silky texture. Enjoy the process of making these treats, and you'll find that the results are worth every effort.

🍦 Note: When serving gelato, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make gelato without an ice cream maker?

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Yes, you can make gelato without an ice cream maker by freezing the mixture in a shallow container, stirring it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency.

How do I store gelato?

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Store gelato in the freezer at a consistent temperature below 0°F (-18°C). For the best quality, consume within one month of making it.

What’s the difference between gelato and ice cream?

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Gelato typically has less cream, more milk, lower fat content, and is churned at a slower speed than ice cream, giving it a denser and more flavorful texture.