This easy homemade mango gelato is a fruity treat that’s super refreshing! With ripe mangoes, cream, and a touch of sugar, it’s a summer favorite for everyone.
You won’t believe how simple it is—just blend, freeze, and enjoy. I like to top mine with extra mango slices for a burst of flavor. Yum! 🍧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor. If fresh mangoes aren’t available, you can use frozen mango chunks—just make sure they’re unsweetened. I love the sweetness of Haden or Kent mangoes.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich gelato. If you need a lighter version, opt for 2% milk or use coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. However, the texture might be less creamy.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works well, but you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. Just remember to adjust the amounts based on sweetness levels.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work. Lime juice is also a nice alternative if you want a unique twist!
How Do I Get Smooth Mango Puree?
Mango puree is key for the gelato’s texture. Here’s how to make it perfectly smooth:
- Cut the mangoes in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender.
- Blend on high until completely smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides if needed.
- If it’s too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to help it blend. Aim for a silky consistency.
Making the puree smooth ensures your gelato has a delightful, creamy texture. Enjoy every scoop!
Easy Homemade Mango Gelato Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gelato:
- 3 ripe mangoes (about 2 cups of mango puree)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mango gelato takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 2-3 hours for chilling and freezing. It’s a little waiting game, but it’s totally worth it when you get to indulge in this refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Puree:
Start by peeling the mangoes and carefully removing the flesh from the pit. Place the mango flesh in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. This will give you about 2 cups of creamy mango puree, which is the star of the gelato!
2. Combine Milk and Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, mix the whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt together. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved—make sure not to let it boil!
3. Mix in Cream and Puree:
Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, mango puree, and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Combine everything well, creating a smooth mixture bursting with mango flavor.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Then, cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to make sure it’s thoroughly chilled. This step is important for the best texture!
5. Churn the Gelato:
After chilling, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for about 20-30 minutes, until you achieve a soft-serve consistency.
6. Freeze to Firm Up:
Transfer the gelato to an airtight container. Freeze it for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up even more. The anticipation makes it taste even better!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop the creamy mango gelato into bowls or glasses. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with some fresh mango slices or a sprig of mint. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy this refreshing treat!
Enjoy your homemade mango gelato! It’s the perfect way to cool down and treat yourself!
FAQ About Easy Homemade Mango Gelato
Can I Use Frozen Mangoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen mango chunks work great as a substitute. Just thaw them slightly before blending to make a smooth puree. This is especially convenient if fresh mangoes aren’t in season!
How Long Does This Gelato Last in the Freezer?
Your homemade mango gelato can last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To maintain the best flavor and texture, store it in an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing.
Can I Make This Gelato Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can replace the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or any non-dairy milk alternative you prefer. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess, but it will still taste delicious!
What If the Gelato is Too Hard After Freezing?
If your gelato is too hard to scoop after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. This will soften it and make it easier to scoop. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
