Creamy Mexican Vanilla Gelato
Indulge in the smooth and creamy texture of this delightful Mexican Vanilla Gelato, infused with the rich and aromatic flavor of pure Mexican vanilla extract. This homemade frozen dessert is perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing treat year-round. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily whip up this gelato to share with friends and family. Whether enjoyed straight from the ice cream maker or frozen to perfection, this gelato promises to be a hit at any gathering.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole milk
3 cups (divided)
sugar
1/2 cup
light corn syrup
1/4 cup
nonfat dry milk powder
2 tablespoons
cornstarch
2 tablespoons
kosher salt
a pinch
pure Mexican vanilla extract
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 1/2 cups of whole milk, sugar, and light corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring often until it begins to steam, but ensure it does not reach a boil.
2
While the initial mixture heats, take a small bowl and whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of whole milk, nonfat dry milk powder, cornstarch, kosher salt, and pure Mexican vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
3
Once the milk mixture is steaming, gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Reduce the heat to low and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly.
4
Continue to whisk the mixture for about 2 minutes on low heat, or until it thickens slightly. If you notice any lumps, strain the gelato base through a fine sieve into a clean container.
5
Cover the surface of the hot mixture with a sheet of plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and then refrigerate until fully chilled, ideally below 40°F (4°C).
6
Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
7
For a firmer gelato, transfer the softened gelato to an airtight storage container and freeze for several hours until fully hardened.
8
Before serving, allow the gelato to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes if it has been frozen solid. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful delight!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Mexican Vanilla Gelato?
It is a smooth, creamy frozen dessert infused with the rich and aromatic flavor of pure Mexican vanilla extract.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in this gelato?
The main ingredients include whole milk, sugar, light corn syrup, nonfat dry milk powder, cornstarch, kosher salt, and pure Mexican vanilla extract.
How much whole milk is needed for the recipe?
You will need a total of 3 cups of whole milk, divided for different parts of the preparation.
Why is cornstarch used in the gelato base?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to help achieve the characteristic dense and smooth texture of gelato.
What is the purpose of light corn syrup in this recipe?
Light corn syrup helps to prevent large ice crystals from forming, ensuring a creamier consistency.
Do I need to boil the milk initially?
No, you should heat the milk until it begins to steam, but ensure it does not reach a boil during the first stage.
How is the cornstarch mixture prepared?
Whisk 1/2 cup of whole milk with the milk powder, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth before adding it to the heated milk.
How long should I cook the mixture after adding the cornstarch?
Whisk the mixture for about 2 minutes on low heat until it thickens slightly.
What should I do if there are lumps in my gelato base?
If you notice lumps, strain the gelato base through a fine sieve into a clean container before chilling.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on the hot gelato base?
Cover the surface of the hot mixture directly with a sheet of plastic wrap.
What is the target temperature for chilling the base?
The base should be fully chilled, ideally below 40°F (4°C), before churning.
How is the gelato churned?
Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
What consistency will the gelato have right after churning?
Immediately after churning, the gelato will have a soft-serve consistency.
How do I make the gelato firmer?
Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze it for several hours until it is fully hardened.
How should I serve the gelato if it has been frozen solid?
Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Is pure Mexican vanilla extract necessary?
While you can use other vanillas, pure Mexican vanilla extract provides the specific rich and aromatic flavor this recipe is designed for.
How much sugar is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sugar.
What is the role of nonfat dry milk powder?
It adds milk solids to the base, which increases creaminess and improves the body of the gelato.
Can this recipe be considered a summer treat?
Yes, it is perfect for hot summer days, though it can be enjoyed as a refreshing treat year-round.
How much Mexican vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of pure Mexican vanilla extract.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Frozen Desserts.
Is any salt used in this recipe?
Yes, a pinch of kosher salt is used to enhance the flavors.
How much light corn syrup is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of light corn syrup.
What equipment is needed for this recipe?
You will need a medium saucepan, bowls, a whisk, a fine sieve (optional), a refrigerator, and an ice cream maker.
Can I prepare the base in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the base and keep it refrigerated until it is fully chilled before churning.
Is this gelato recipe difficult to follow?
No, it is described as having simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
Is this a dairy-free recipe?
No, this recipe contains whole milk and nonfat dry milk powder.
How much cornstarch is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
Can I serve this gelato straight from the ice cream maker?
Yes, if you prefer a soft-serve consistency, it can be enjoyed immediately after churning.