Duomo Gelato

The Easiest Homemade Gelato Recipe (No Machine)

The Easiest Homemade Gelato Recipe (No Machine)

Here’s a simple and delicious homemade gelato recipe that you can make without an ice cream machine. This recipe will yield a creamy gelato using a few basic ingredients and requires minimal effort!

Easiest Homemade Gelato Recipe (No Machine)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Flavor Variations:

  • Chocolate Gelato: Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate.
  • Fruit Gelato: Puree 1 cup of your favorite fruit (like strawberries, mangoes, or peaches) and mix it into the base before freezing.
  • Coffee Gelato: Add 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee or espresso.

Instructions:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. If you’re adding additional flavors (like cocoa powder or fruit puree), mix those in as well.

  2. Pour and Freeze: Pour the mixture into a shallow container (like a baking dish or a large bowl) and cover it with plastic wrap.

  3. Initial Freeze: Place the container in the freezer. After about 30-45 minutes, check the gelato. As it begins to freeze, use a fork to scrape the sides and stir the mixture. This helps break up any ice crystals forming.

  4. Stir Every 30 Minutes: Continue to freeze the gelato, stirring it every 30 minutes for the next 2-3 hours. This helps create a smooth, creamy texture.

  5. Final Freeze: After 3 hours, or when the gelato reaches your desired consistency, you can let it freeze undisturbed for an additional 1-2 hours.

  6. Serve: Once fully frozen, scoop the gelato into bowls or cones and enjoy! If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Tips:

  • Storage: Store any leftover gelato in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within a week for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Avoid Over-Freezing: If you freeze the gelato for too long without stirring, it may become too hard, so regular stirring is key!

This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite flavors, and the no-machine method makes it accessible for everyone. Enjoy your homemade gelato! If you have any questions or want more flavor ideas, let me know!