Gelato vs Ice Cream: What’s the difference?

With summer in full swing, you’re likely to be craving a refreshing, cool sweet treat – like an ice cream, or a creamy gelato. But you may be asking; What is the difference between ice cream and gelato?

At first glance, these two frozen desserts might seem similar, but dig your spoon in a little deeper, and you’ll discover they have some key differences that make them unique. From texture to taste, ingredients to serving styles, let’s explore the delicious world of ice cream and gelato so you can pick your perfect summer indulgence.

Texture: Smooth vs. Creamy

One of the most noticeable differences between ice cream and gelato is the texture. Ice cream tends to be lighter and fluffier, thanks to a higher air content, which is incorporated during a faster churning process. Gelato, on the other hand, is denser and silkier because it’s churned at a slower speed, incorporating less air. This density gives gelato its signature creamy texture that melts smoothly on your tongue.

Ingredients: More Cream or More Milk?

While both ice cream and gelato share core ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, and flavourings, the proportions differ. Ice cream typically has a higher cream content and sometimes even includes egg yolks for richness, making it heavier and richer in fat. Gelato uses more milk than cream and often skips the eggs entirely, resulting in a lower fat content but a more intense flavour profile. So, if you’re looking for the healthier option, gelato is your go-to.

Temperature: Serving Style Matters

Have you ever noticed how gelato feels softer and easier to scoop, even when frozen? That’s because gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream. This warmer serving temperature enhances the flavour, making gelato’s ingredients more pronounced with every bite. Ice cream, served colder, offers a firmer texture and a slower melt.

Flavour Intensity: Subtle vs. Bold

If you’re after bold, vibrant flavours, gelato might be your go-to. With its lower fat content, gelato allows flavours to shine brighter since fat tends to coat the palate. Whether it’s pistachio, stracciatella, or mango, gelato delivers a punch of flavour that’s hard to beat. Ice cream, with its higher fat content, offers a creamier, richer experience but with slightly muted flavours.

Origins and Traditions

Ice cream has a long-standing history, tracing back to ancient China and Persia before becoming a global favourite, especially in America. Gelato, however, is steeped in Italian tradition (just like the Magimix Gelato Expert), often seen as an artisanal dessert made in small batches. Both desserts bring their own unique to the table, making every scoop a journey in its own right.

Make It at Home with Magimix

If you want to take the manual labour out of making homemade ice cream, the Magimix Gelato Expert is the perfect kitchen companion. Whether you’re team ice cream or team gelato, you can have the freedom of both. This ice cream maker can whip up both creamy gelato and classic ice cream in under 30 minutes, along with granita and sorbet. This makes it a versatile machine which simplifies the process with its 3 auto programs, built-in freezer, and commercial-grade features, so you can experiment with flavours and textures to your heart’s content.

The Best of Both Worlds

The next time you’re in the mood for a frozen dessert, you’ll know exactly what makes ice cream and gelato distinct. Whether you prefer the light and fluffy texture of ice cream or the dense and creamy allure of gelato, there’s no wrong choice.
Why not enjoy the best of both worlds this summer and whip up your own batches at home? With Magimix, you’re just a scoop away from sweet perfection!