Homemade Italian Chocolate Gelato

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) whole milk 2 cups (470ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 4 ounces (113g) dark chocolate, finely chopped 4 ounces (113g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 13g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 22g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. 4.
   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. 6.
   Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
7. 7.
   Transfer the gelato to a lidded container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dark chocolate — Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for the best flavor. Finely chop the chocolate to ensure it melts smoothly into the gelato mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use a combination of dark and semi-sweet chocolate.
• To prevent ice crystals from forming, make sure the gelato mixture is completely chilled before churning.
• Experiment with different toppings such as chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Serving advice

Serve the Italian Chocolate Gelato in small bowls or cones. For an elegant touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a chocolate curl.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, serve the gelato in chilled glass dessert dishes and accompany it with a crisp Italian biscotti or a delicate wafer.