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Gelato is a delicious Italian frozen dessert that offers a rich and creamy texture. Adding almonds and hazelnuts gives it a distinctive nutty flavor that is both satisfying and sophisticated. In this article, you’ll learn how to make your own nutty gelato at home, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a unique treat.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup almonds (preferably toasted)
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts (preferably toasted)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Preparing the Nut Base
Start by toasting the almonds and hazelnuts to enhance their flavor. Once toasted, let them cool slightly. Then, blend the nuts in a food processor until finely ground. Set aside a small handful of chopped nuts for garnish if desired.
Making the Gelato Base
In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and half of the sugar. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until smooth. Slowly pour some of the hot milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the ground nuts, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
Churning and Freezing
Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last few minutes, add the chopped nuts for added texture. Transfer the gelato to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade nutty gelato in bowls or cones. Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. Enjoy this rich, creamy dessert as a perfect end to any meal or a delightful treat on a warm day.