This homemade chocolate Nutella gelato is creamy and rich, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. With just a few simple ingredients, it tastes like heaven in a bowl!
You can make this in no time, and trust me, everyone will ask for seconds! I love serving it with fresh berries on top—it adds a nice touch and a pop of color. 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to the gelato. If you prefer, you can use low-fat milk, but it may not be as rich. Plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk can work, but won’t give the same creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: This makes the gelato luscious. You can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it might not be as rich.
Nutella: This is the star of the show! If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try sun butter or a chocolate spread that uses a different base. Chocolate sauce can also work in a pinch, just reduce the sugar slightly.
Cocoa Powder: This deepens the chocolate flavor. If you prefer a less intense taste, you can cut this down to 2 tablespoons, but avoid substitutions—you want that cocoa richness!
Egg Yolks: These help thicken the gelato and give it a creamy texture. If you want an egg-free version, use a thickener like cornstarch mixed with a bit of water. About 2 tablespoons should do the trick.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Gelato Texture?
To get that delightful gelato texture, the cooking and chilling process is key. Here’s how to nail it:
- When heating the milk mixture, don’t let it boil. Heat until it’s just hot, as boiling can risk curdling the egg yolks.
- Tempering the eggs is crucial. Gradually pour the hot milk into the yolks while whisking to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Cook slowly and stir constantly to avoid sticking. You want the mixture to coat the back of a spoon—this means it’s thick enough!
- Cool the mixture to room temp before refrigerating. It helps the flavors meld and enhances creaminess.
- While churning in the ice cream maker, keep an eye on it. It’s done when it’s thick and soft, usually about 20-25 minutes. Don’t over-churn!
These steps will help you create a wonderfully creamy gelato that everyone will love!
Easy Homemade Chocolate Nutella Gelato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Nutella (or any hazelnut chocolate spread)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts for garnish
- Extra Nutella (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of active preparation, plus at least 4 hours to chill and 2 hours to freeze. So, plan on about 6 hours total, but much of that time is just waiting for the gelato to set. Perfect for a warm day treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar. Heat it over medium heat until the mixture is hot, but make sure it doesn’t boil—just heat until it’s steaming and bubbling around the edges. Stir occasionally to combine and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining sugar. You’ll want this mixture to look pale and thick, which should take about a minute of whisking.
3. Temper the Eggs:
Take about one cup of the hot milk mixture and slowly pour it into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This step is crucial as it prevents the eggs from scrambling. Then pour this tempered mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
4. Cook Until Thick:
Keep cooking over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula. You’re aiming for the mixture to thicken enough so that it coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes around 5-10 minutes, and it should reach about 170°F or just before boiling.
5. Mix in Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the Nutella, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined. You want to fully incorporate these delicious flavors!
6. Strain the Mixture:
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This step ensures that any cooked bits of egg are removed, leaving you with a silky smooth base for your gelato.
7. Chill the Base:
Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until it’s chilled completely. This is important for the best texture!
8. Churn the Gelato:
Once the base is chilled, churn it in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It should reach a soft-serve consistency after about 20-25 minutes.
9. Freeze to Firm Up:
Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze it for at least 2 hours to firm up and become scoopable.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the gelato into bowls, drizzle with extra Nutella if you like, and sprinkle with chopped toasted hazelnuts for that extra crunch!
Enjoy your creamy, chocolatey Nutella gelato topped with crunchy hazelnuts! It’s sure to be a hit with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk, but keep in mind that the gelato might not be as creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using a mix of low-fat milk and a little bit of cream for balance!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make gelato without an ice cream maker. After chilling the mixture, pour it into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir it with a fork every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours to help break up ice crystals until it reaches your desired texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Gelato?
Store any leftover gelato in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture. To soften, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Can I Substitute Nutella for Another Spread?
Absolutely! If you want a nut-free option, try using sunflower seed butter or a different chocolate spread. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
