Difference between Gelati and Ice Cream

Have you ever wanted to know what the difference is between Ice Cream and Gelati? Did you know there is also Sherbet and Sorbet varieties.

At Gelista, we believe in crafting not just frozen delights but unique experiences that tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression. As connoisseurs of premium gelato, we are often asked about the differences between gelato and ice cream.

Our philosophy is to produce premium products which utilise quality Australian ingredients – that’s what makes Gelista so indulgent. To understand more about the different types of frozen desserts continue reading.

Gelato

Gelato or gelati is usually described as the Italian version of ice cream. However, Gelati generally contains a lower percentage of overall milk fat. The lower fat content allows the flavors to shine through with a smoother, more intense taste.

With less fat, gelato allows for a more intense flavor experience. The subtleties of each ingredient shine through, making it ideal for those who crave a pure and indulgent taste.

Also, Gelati contains less overrun than other frozen products which means there is less air in the final product. Ultimately meaning that is it denser than ice cream and creates a soft mouth feel. It also ensures that gelati can be stored at higher temperatures than ice cream, contributing to its glossy aesthetic and amplified flavour.

Gelato is served at a warmer temperature than ice cream at around minus 10 to 15 degrees Celcius, this makes the flavours shine through even more.

Ice Cream

To be called “ice cream” the frozen product, must contain milk or cream and at least 10% milk fat. Ice cream is generally churned at a higher speed, and the incorporated air results in higher overrun than Gelato. This contributes to a larger percentage of air in the final product.  

The higher fat level and light mass (marshmallow like) mouthfeel is characteristic of many Australian commercial ice creams. As a result it must be stored and scooped at lower temperatures than Gelati. This colder temperature also enables the scooper to achieve the traditional ball shape that ice cream is famous for.

Ice cream is served at a colder temperature than gelato.

Sorbet

The term sorbet refers to the lack of milk within the Gelati.  Most of our fruit range at Gelista are sorbet flavours, which is achieved by substituting milk with fruit puree. The pure fruit taste is refreshing and as a result Gelista sorbet products are used by many high class restaurants as a palette cleanser, between courses.  Gelista’s sorbet formulations are completely plant based.

Sherbet

Here at Gelista we adopt the American meaning of the word “sherbet”.  Sherbets are a sorbet with a splash of milk and are almost always a citrus based flavour. The added milk creates a pastel coloured final product that is both refreshing and delicious. Sherbets are not widely available within the retail industry because of the technical difficulty of manufacture. Through rigorous R&D, our team at Gelista has perfected the art of making such a product. This is why when we first introduced our Blood Orange and Dark Chocolate Gelati it was the only sherbet flavour available to consumers within the retail market.

There is an array of different frozen dessert options which consumers can choose from, whether it be Gelati, Ice Cream, Sorbets or Sherbets. Each variety, although they may appear similar, utilises different production methods which ultimately creates a different composition and taste experience  that is unparalleled within the food industry.

At Gelista, our commitment to crafting exceptional gelato goes beyond these traditional distinctions. We take pride in using premium Australian ingredients, supporting local producers, and delivering a diverse range of flavors.

Our wholesale and food service products, including the 6L Wholesale Range and 5L Food Service offerings, are designed to cater to the discerning tastes of leading chefs and establishments across Australia.

With over 50 flavors in our repertoire, Gelista has become a trusted supplier for restaurants, cafes, hospitals, schools, and independent supermarkets.

In conclusion, while both gelato and ice cream offer frozen delights, the nuanced differences in ingredients, texture, and serving temperatures make each a unique experience. Gelista stands at the forefront of this frozen dessert evolution, inviting you to indulge in the taste and texture that's uniquely ours. Explore the Gelista difference and elevate your frozen treat experience today!

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