When you look at a scoop of gelato next to a scoop of ice cream, they may look similar at first, but there are some slight differences between the two that may have you heading for the pints of gelato the next time you’re in the grocery store. The two treats are both cold and sweet, but you’ll have to spend less time on your treadmill to make up for that extra scoop of gelato. Once you sample a few flavors, you’ll begin to realize that this Italian dessert packs a real punch of flavor. It’s rich and creamy and should be quite popular at your next birthday party when someone leaves a tub out on the counter; this dessert is best served warmer than ice cream. While these two may be different in a few ways, one thing they have in common is that you will definitely want more.
Healthier than Ice Cream
Ice cream is delicious on a hot summer’s day, but it can take a toll on your waistline. While gelato may taste more rich than ice cream, it actually contains less fat. Authentic Italian gelato uses more milk than cream and uses less egg yolks than ice cream. Having less fat in gelato is not only good for your body, but it is great for your taste buds. Having less fat in the cold treat allows the flavors to present themselves more intensely in your mouth.
Thick and Creamy
One thing that you may notice about the appearance and texture of gelato is that it is thicker than ice cream. So how do they make it so rich? Authentic Italian gelato is denser than ice cream and this is the case because it is churned at a slower rate. This process reduces the amount of air that is mixed in and creates a thicker product.
Not Quite as Cold
Gelato is stored and served at a temperature that is usually about 15 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than ice cream. Keeping the temperature warmer is done so that the gelato can stay soft and have an elastic texture. Since it is dense, the gelato does not turn soupy the way ice cream would at the same temperature.
