Savor the tropical sweetness of mangoes with this creamy Italian Mango Gelato recipe. It’s perfect for warm days or as a delightful treat any time!

Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Maturation Time: 4 hours
- Freezing Time: 4 hours
- Yield: Approximately 1.4 L
Ingredients for Mango Gelato
Gelato Base
- 600 ml whole milk (3.5% fat)
- 300 ml heavy cream (35% fat)
- 120 g granulated sugar
- 40 g corn glucose syrup
- 5 g neutral stabilizer (e.g., guar gum or locust bean gum mix)
Mango Purée
- 400 g ripe mangoes (peeled, pitted, and chopped)
- 30 g granulated sugar (for maceration)
- 10 ml fresh lime juice (optional, to enhance flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mango Gelato
1. Prepare the Mango Purée
- Place the chopped mangoes in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar and lime juice.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to macerate and release natural juices.
- Blend the mangoes into a smooth purée using an immersion blender.
- For a silkier texture, strain the purée through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibers.
2. Prepare the Gelato Base
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar. Add the glucose syrup and heat gently while stirring.
- Bring the mixture to 85°C (just below boiling) to pasteurize.
- In a small bowl, mix the stabilizer with a teaspoon of sugar to prevent clumping. Gradually whisk this into the heated base. Stir for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and blend the mixture with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
3. Combine the Base and Mango Purée
- Stir the mango purée into the warm gelato base until well combined.
- Quickly cool the mixture using an ice bath (place the bowl of gelato base over a larger bowl filled with ice and water).
- Cover with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to mature.
4. Churn and Freeze the Gelato
- Pour the matured mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 25–30 minutes).
- Transfer the churned gelato into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours to firm up before serving.
Tips for Perfect Mango Gelato
- Use ripe, fragrant mangoes for optimal flavor. Varieties like Alphonso or Ataulfo are particularly sweet and creamy.
- A neutral stabilizer ensures creaminess and prevents ice crystals, giving your gelato a professional texture.
- If mangoes are out of season, frozen mango chunks can be used but may require additional sugar.
FAQs About Mango Gelato
Q: Can I substitute mangoes with another tropical fruit?
A: Yes! Papayas or pineapples make excellent alternatives for a unique twist.
Q: How do I ensure my gelato is not too icy?
A: Ensure the stabilizer is well-incorporated and use high-fat milk and cream for a smooth texture.
Q: Can I skip the lime juice?
A: Lime juice enhances the mango flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a purely mango taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your mango gelato in a bowl or cone, garnished with fresh mango slices, a sprinkle of coconut flakes, or a drizzle of honey for an extra tropical touch.
Final Thoughts
This mango gelato is a tropical delight that combines the natural sweetness of mangoes with the creamy texture of Italian gelato. It’s perfect for family gatherings, summer parties, or simply as a refreshing treat.