Ever wondered what makes gelato so special? Is it just a fancy name for ice cream, or is there more to this Italian dessert? Let’s uncover the real story behind gelato and why it’s a culinary masterpiece that deserves its own spotlight.

You might not realize it, but you’ve touched on a frosty topic that once was at the center of the social media’s fuss. Everyone was talking about it, but what’s the real story?

The difference lies in the recipe, of course, but also in cultural heritage. Italians are passionate about their gelato, and calling it ice cream is like a culinary faux pas, you just might get yelled at. So, let’s dive in to avoid any food crimes.

Gelato’s Ingredients: Freshness is key

One of the biggest differences comes down to ingredients and freshness. Gelato is typically made with fresh ingredients, which is why it’s best consumed within a few days of being made. At Gelateria Amare, we take pride in carefully selecting high-quality products that truly make a difference. We craft our gelato daily, using only premium ingredients to ensure every scoop bursts with flavour.

Unlike ice cream, gelato isn’t meant to be stored for long periods. This explains why many gelaterias are located close to where the gelato is made. Ours is located literally a stone-throw away form our Pjaca gelateria. 

Air: The invisible ingredient

Did you know that air is a key difference between gelato and ice cream? Ice cream contains up to 50% air, giving it a lighter, fluffier texture. Gelato, on the other hand, has a maximum of 30% air, resulting in a denser, creamier consistency.

Eggs: To include or not to include?

Traditional gelato recipes may include eggs to create a custard base made from eggs, sugar, milk, and cream. However, many gelato recipes, especially modern ones, dismiss eggs entirely. It also depends on the region of Italy or the flavour being made. On the contrary, in Ice cream you will most likely always find eggs in the mixture.

Milk and Cream: The Balancing Act

Gelato uses more milk and less cream than ice cream. The typical ratio for ice cream is 1 cup of milk for 2 cups of cream, while gelato flips this with about 2.5 cups of milk for 1 cup of cream. This balance gives gelato its rich texture without being overly heavy.

Sugar: A shared sweet spot

The one ingredient where gelato and ice cream see eye to eye is sugar—they both require the same amount of this essential ingredient to achieve their perfect flavour profiles.

Nutritional Values: Less fat, More flavour

According to the FDA, ice cream must contain at least 10% milk fat, whereas gelato only needs a minimum of 3.5%. Usually, ice cream contains up to 25% fat, while gelato typically ranges between 4% and 9%.

This lower fat content lets gelato’s flavours shine, while ice cream’s higher butterfat can coat your taste buds, delaying the flavour experience.

Consistency and Flavour: The gelato advantage

Gelato’s dense texture and lower air content deliver an intense flavour burst with every bite. Paired with its silky smoothness, it’s a dessert like no other.

Because gelato contains less air, it has a denser texture than ice cream. Combined with its higher milk content, gelato provides a more intense flavour experience while still offering a silky-smooth scooping experience.

Gelato isn’t meant to be stored long-term

While the processes for making gelato and ice cream are similar, they differ in two key areas: air incorporation and storage. Gelato is churned more slowly, which limits the air content. Additionally, gelato isn’t made to be stored long-term, unlike ice cream.

Serving gelato

Gelato is served slightly warmer than ice cream—around 6–8°C higher—allowing its flavours to bloom without numbing your tongue with the ice-cold ice cream.

Why we chose gelato

At Gelateria Amare, gelato isn’t just a dessert; it’s a labor of love. After learning the art of gelato-making from Italian masters, we’re proud to bring an authentic experience to Split.

So, the next time you savour a scoop of gelato, remember—it’s more than just ice cream. It’s a taste of Italy, crafted with passion and tradition.