What is the difference between gelato and ice cream

The main difference lies in their ingredients and how they’re made. This affects their texture and taste.

Ice Cream’s Higher Milk Fat Content

Ice cream has more milk fat than gelato. The U.S. FDA says ice cream must have at least 10% milk fat. But, premium ice cream can have up to 25% fat.

This extra fat makes ice cream creamy and fluffy.

Gelato’s Lower Milk Fat and Higher Sugar Content

Gelato has less milk fat, between 4% and 9%. It uses more milk and less cream than ice cream. Italian rules say gelato must have at least 3.5% fat.

Gelato also has more sugar than ice cream. This sugar makes gelato softer and more scoopable, even when cold. Gelato’s denser flavor comes from less milk fat and more sugar.

The mix of milk, cream, and sugar is key to gelato and ice cream’s differences. Ice cream’s higher fat makes it fluffier. Gelato’s denser, sweeter taste comes from less fat and more sugar.

Texture and Air Content

Gelato and ice cream have different textures due to their churning processes. This affects how they feel in your mouth. Each has its own unique taste and texture.

Ice Cream’s Lighter, Airier Texture

Ice cream is light and airy because it’s churned quickly. This quick process adds a lot of air, making it fluffier. Ice cream can have up to 50% air, thanks to this fast churning.

It also has more cream than gelato. This makes ice cream even lighter.

Gelato’s Denser, Softer Texture

Gelato is denser and softer than ice cream. It’s churned slowly, which means less air gets in. This results in a denser, silkier texture.

Gelato has more milk than ice cream. This helps it have its unique, smooth feel.

CharacteristicGelatoIce Cream
Air Content25-30%Up to 50%
TextureDense, soft, and silkyLight, airy, and fluffy
Churning ProcessSlow churning, less air incorporatedFast churning, more air incorporated
Milk to Cream RatioHigher proportion of milkHigher proportion of cream

Production Methods and Serving Temperatures

Gelato and ice cream have different ways of being made. Gelato is often made in small batches in labs near the gelateria. This way, it’s eaten within days, keeping its taste and texture perfect.

Ice cream, however, is made on a bigger scale. It’s frozen for longer before it gets to you. This makes it fluffier because it gets more air in it.

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