Homemade Spumoni Gelato

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) whole milk 2 cups (470ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped candied cherries 1/4 cup (30g) chopped candied cherries
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped dark chocolate 1/4 cup (30g) chopped dark chocolate

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 25g
• Protein: 6g
• 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.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
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. Do not let it boil.
5. 5.
   Divide the mixture into three equal parts. Leave one part plain, and mix the cocoa powder into another part until well incorporated. Stir the almond extract into the third part.
6. 6.
   Allow the mixtures to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. 7.
   Churn each mixture separately in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8. 8.
   Once the gelato reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in the chopped pistachios, candied cherries, and dark chocolate into their respective flavors.
9. 9.
   Transfer each flavored gelato into separate containers, layering them in the desired order.
10. 10.
    Cover the containers and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
11. 11.
    Serve the Spumoni gelato in bowls or cones, and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pistachios — Make sure to use unsalted pistachios for a better balance of flavors.
• Candied cherries — If you can't find candied cherries, you can substitute with dried cherries or other candied fruits.
• Dark chocolate — Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich and intense flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoother gelato texture, strain the custard mixture before refrigerating.
• Experiment with different flavors and add-ins, such as chopped almonds, dried fruits, or a swirl of raspberry sauce.
• To prevent ice crystals from forming, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each gelato layer before freezing.
• Allow the gelato to soften for a few minutes at room temperature before serving for easier scooping.
• Serve the Spumoni gelato with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an extra touch of decadence.

Serving advice

Serve the Spumoni gelato in individual bowls or cones. Garnish with a fresh cherry or a mint sprig for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To showcase the beautiful layers of the Spumoni gelato, serve it in transparent glass bowls or dessert glasses. Alternatively, you can use a loaf pan to create a sliced presentation, revealing the colorful layers.