Chocolate Gelato Recipe – Italian Special

Chocolate gelato is a rich and creamy Italian dessert made with high-quality cocoa, milk, and a touch of sugar, offering a smooth and intense chocolate flavor. Unlike ice cream, gelato is churned at a slower speed and has less air, giving it a denser, more velvety texture. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this indulgent treat is a cool, refreshing way to enjoy the classic combination of chocolate and cream.

  • Prep Time15 min
  • Cook Time10 min
  • Perform Time3 hr
  • Total Time3 hr 25 min

Chocolate Gelato Recipe Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate (chopped)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Heat the Milk and Cream:

1

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cream, sugar, and cocoa powder.

2

Whisk together and heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.

Melt the Chocolate:

3

Add the chopped dark chocolate to the milk mixture and stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

4

Prepare the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.

5

Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

Combine:

6

Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture, whisking constantly.

7

Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).

8

Be careful not to let it boil.

Cool the Base:

9

Once thickened, remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

10

Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.

Churn the Gelato:

11

Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency.

Freeze:

12

Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up further.

Serve:

13

Scoop and enjoy your rich, creamy homemade chocolate gelato!

Recipe Notes:

Milk and Cream :  Use whole milk and heavy cream for a creamy texture.

Chocolate :  Use good dark chocolate for the best flavor.

Egg Yolks :  They help make the gelato smooth and creamy.

Storage :  Keep the gelato in an airtight container in the freezer.

Serving :  Let it soften a little before serving for a creamier texture.