Gelato vs. Ice Cream: What's the Real Difference?
Gelato and ice cream may seem similar, but they differ in several key aspects—ingredients, texture, and flavour.
Gelato and ice cream may seem similar, but they differ in several key aspects—ingredients, texture, and flavour.
While both desserts start with milk, cream, sugar, and flavourings, their proportions vary. Ice cream has more cream than milk, resulting in a richer, creamier texture and higher fat content (typically 10% or more). It also often contains egg yolks, giving it a custard-like consistency. In contrast, gelato uses more milk than cream, making it lower in fat (5-7%) and usually egg-free, giving it a denser, more intense flavour.
Gelato is churned more slowly than ice cream, introducing less air and making it denser and smoother. Ice cream is churned faster, incorporating more air, which gives it a fluffier texture. This air content can make ice cream up to 50% lighter than gelato.
Gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature (around 15°F) than ice cream (which is typically served at 0°F). This warmer temperature makes gelato softer, allowing its flavours to be more pronounced and melt in your mouth faster. Ice cream, served colder, maintains a firmer, more solid texture.
While ice cream boasts a wide variety of flavours—from classic vanilla and chocolate to creative options like birthday cake or cotton candy—gelato focuses on fewer, richer flavours like pistachio, hazelnut, or fruit-based sorbets. The lower fat content and warmer serving temperature of gelato help its flavours come through more intensely.
Gelato generally has less fat and fewer calories, making it a "lighter" choice. However, ice cream’s richness often makes it more satisfying in smaller portions, so it depends on what you're in the mood for.
If you’re after something dense, intensely flavoured, and creamy, gelato is your best bet. If you prefer a lighter, airier treat with a wide range of flavours, ice cream is the way to go. Ultimately, both are delicious, so enjoy whichever frozen treat fits your mood!
