Enjoy the rich, tangy, and sweet flavors of mixed berry gelato. This creamy dessert blends strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries into a perfect summer treat.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Maturation Time: 4 hours
- Freezing Time: 4 hours
- Yield: Approximately 1.4 L
Ingredients for Mixed Berry 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)
Mixed Berry Purée
- 400 g mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries; fresh or frozen)
- 60 g granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of berries)
- 10 ml fresh lemon juice (optional, to enhance the flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mixed Berry Gelato
1. Prepare the Gelato Base
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Add glucose syrup and heat gently, stirring constantly.
- 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 with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
2. Make the Mixed Berry Purée
- Combine mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using) in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Taste the purée and adjust sugar if necessary.
- Strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and achieve a silky texture.
3. Combine the Base and Purée
- Stir the mixed berry purée into the warm gelato base until thoroughly combined.
- Quickly cool the mixture using an ice bath.
- Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent skin formation. 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 to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours to firm up before serving.
Tips for Perfect Mixed Berry Gelato
- Use ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor. Frozen berries work well but may need a slight sugar adjustment.
- Straining the purée is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
- A neutral stabilizer ensures a creamy consistency and prevents ice crystals from forming.
FAQs About Mixed Berry Gelato
Q: Can I use only one type of berry?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the sugar depending on the natural sweetness or tartness of the berries.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?
A: Yes, freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours to mimic the churning process.
Q: Can I add other ingredients for texture?
A: Yes, you can fold in small pieces of fresh berries or a berry coulis after churning for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your mixed berry gelato in a bowl, waffle cone, or alongside a slice of pound cake. Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of berry sauce for an elegant touch.
Final Thoughts
This mixed berry gelato captures the essence of summer in every bite. The vibrant combination of berries and creamy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.