Gelato is a frozen dessert of Italian origin, and the word "gelato" means "ice cream" in Italian. However, in English, the term "gelato" has come to refer to a specific style of ice cream derived from the Italian artisanal tradition. Here are some key differences between gelato and American-style ice cream:
Ingredients:
- Gelato uses more milk and less cream than ice cream.
- Gelato typically contains 6-9% butterfat, which is lower than other styles of frozen dessert.
- Gelato contains less air than American-style ice cream, giving it a denser and milkier texture.
Flavor:
- Gelato has more flavoring than other kinds of frozen desserts, giving it a density and richness that distinguishes it from other ice creams.
- Gelatos flavors come through direct, hard, and fast, then melt away clean, making it more intense than ice cream.
Temperature:
- Gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, so its texture stays silkier and softer.
In summary, gelato is a denser, smoother, and richer frozen dessert than American-style ice cream, with more intense flavors and a lower fat content.