27+ Creamy Gelato Ice Cream Maker Recipes for Every Season

Gelato, the Italian cousin to ice cream, has captivated dessert lovers worldwide with its creamy texture, rich flavors, and artisan charm.

Unlike regular ice cream, gelato is churned at a slower speed, giving it a denser and more luxurious consistency.

With a gelato ice cream maker, crafting these delectable desserts at home becomes a delightful culinary adventure.

From classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic combinations like lavender honey and matcha green tea, the possibilities are endless.

This guide, featuring 27+ gelato ice cream maker recipes, will inspire you to experiment, indulge, and savor the joy of homemade gelato.

Whether you’re a seasoned gelato enthusiast or a beginner, this collection caters to every taste and occasion.

Dive into these recipes and discover how to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary frozen delights.

27+ Creamy Gelato Ice Cream Maker Recipes for Every Season

Creating gelato at home with a gelato ice cream maker opens up a world of flavor possibilities and culinary creativity.

The recipes in this collection showcase the versatility of gelato, from timeless classics to innovative twists that will impress family and friends.

Beyond the delightful flavors, making gelato is also about the experience – the aroma of fresh ingredients, the anticipation as it churns, and the joy of sharing a homemade treat.

With these 27+ gelato ice cream maker recipes, you can turn any moment into an occasion to celebrate.

So grab your gelato maker, gather your ingredients, and let your imagination run wild.

Classic Vanilla Bean Gelato

This Classic Vanilla Bean Gelato is a timeless delight with a creamy, rich texture and the aromatic essence of real vanilla. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dessert that captures simplicity and sophistication in every scoop. Whether served solo or paired with your favorite dessert, this gelato is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, cream, and half the sugar over medium heat until steaming, but do not boil. Add the vanilla bean and seeds. Let it steep for 10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and the remaining sugar until pale and creamy.
3. Slowly pour a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously to temper the eggs. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
4. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (170°F or 77°C).
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vanilla bean and any curdled bits. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
6. Pour the chilled custard into your gelato ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze for 2-4 hours for a firmer texture.

Classic Vanilla Bean Gelato offers an indulgent yet simple way to enjoy a timeless treat. With its velvety texture and authentic vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for savoring alone or as a companion to warm pies and cakes. A little effort yields a luxurious dessert that’s truly unforgettable.

Pistachio Bliss Gelato

Pistachio Bliss Gelato brings the nutty, earthy flavor of pistachios to life in a creamy, decadent frozen treat. This recipe uses real pistachios for a natural flavor, offering a dessert that’s both elegant and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups shelled pistachios (unsalted)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Grind the pistachios in a food processor until fine but not oily. Reserve 2 tbsp for garnishing.
2. Heat the milk, cream, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming. Add the ground pistachios and steep for 15 minutes.
3. Whisk together the egg yolks and remaining sugar until creamy. Slowly temper the yolks with a ladle of the warm pistachio milk, then add it back into the saucepan.
4. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract the pistachio flavor. Stir in the almond extract if desired. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours.
6. Churn the mixture in your gelato ice cream maker as directed.
7. Transfer to a container, sprinkle with reserved pistachios, and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Pistachio Bliss Gelato is a treat that celebrates the distinctive flavor of pistachios. Its smooth and creamy texture, combined with the nutty crunch of pistachios, makes it a dessert worth savoring. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful everyday indulgence.

Dark Chocolate Gelato with Sea Salt

Dark Chocolate Gelato with Sea Salt is an irresistible blend of rich cocoa flavor and a touch of savory sophistication. This luxurious gelato offers a perfect balance of bittersweet chocolate and subtle saltiness, creating a decadent dessert experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 large egg yolks
• 5 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
• ¼ tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until steaming, stirring to dissolve the cocoa.
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until creamy. Slowly temper them with a ladle of the hot milk mixture, then combine everything in the saucepan.
3. Cook the custard on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (170°F or 77°C).
4. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the sea salt and mix well.
5. Strain the custard through a sieve and cool to room temperature before refrigerating for 4 hours.
6. Churn the gelato in your ice cream maker according to the instructions. Transfer to a container and freeze for a firmer texture.
7. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt before serving for added flavor.

Dark Chocolate Gelato with Sea Salt is a rich and indulgent dessert that will delight chocolate lovers. The contrast of bittersweet chocolate and sea salt creates a complex flavor profile, making it a sophisticated treat for any occasion. Serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a luxurious personal indulgence.

Fresh Strawberry Gelato

Fresh Strawberry Gelato captures the essence of summer in every bite. With vibrant berries and a creamy base, this dessert is refreshingly fruity and indulgent. Perfect for a warm day or when you crave a light, refreshing treat with a hint of luxury.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Puree the strawberries with ¼ cup of sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove seeds. Set aside.
2. Heat the milk, cream, and remaining sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
3. Whisk egg yolks in a bowl until pale. Gradually temper the yolks with the warm milk mixture, then return to the saucepan.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (170°F or 77°C).
5. Remove from heat and mix in the strawberry puree. Strain the mixture through a sieve.
6. Cool to room temperature, then chill for 4 hours.
7. Churn the mixture in your gelato maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze for 2-4 hours for a firmer texture.

Fresh Strawberry Gelato is the ultimate way to enjoy the natural sweetness of strawberries. Its smooth, creamy texture combined with the bright, fruity flavor makes it an irresistible treat for all ages.

Salted Caramel Gelato

Salted Caramel Gelato is a decadent fusion of creamy sweetness and a hint of saltiness. This indulgent dessert combines the richness of homemade caramel with a smooth gelato base, making every scoop a luxurious experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp water
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat until it melts and turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the cream (it may bubble).
2. Add milk and salt to the caramel, stirring until smooth. Heat until steaming.
3. Whisk egg yolks in a bowl and temper with the warm caramel mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and strain the mixture.
5. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours.
6. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Salted Caramel Gelato is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Its rich caramel undertones and creamy texture make it an elegant choice for dessert lovers seeking something truly special.

Lemon Basil Gelato

Lemon Basil Gelato is a unique and refreshing dessert that combines zesty citrus with a subtle herbal twist. This gelato is light, aromatic, and perfect for those who enjoy sophisticated and slightly adventurous flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 10 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and lemon zest in a saucepan until steaming. Add basil leaves and steep for 10 minutes.
2. Whisk egg yolks in a bowl and temper with the warm milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Strain the mixture and stir in lemon juice. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn the mixture in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Lemon Basil Gelato is a refreshing and aromatic treat that delights the senses. Its bright citrus flavor and herbal notes make it a perfect palate cleanser or a stand-alone dessert on warm days.

Coffee Espresso Gelato

Coffee Espresso Gelato is a bold and creamy dessert that captures the essence of your favorite espresso drink. Perfect for coffee lovers, this gelato delivers a rich flavor profile with an irresistible velvety texture.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming. Stir in the espresso powder until dissolved.
2. Whisk egg yolks and remaining sugar in a bowl. Gradually temper the yolks with the warm milk mixture, then return to the saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly (170°F or 77°C).
4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and strain the mixture. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate for 4 hours.
5. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Coffee Espresso Gelato is the ultimate treat for coffee enthusiasts. Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a delightful way to indulge in the robust essence of espresso.

Mango Coconut Gelato

Mango Coconut Gelato is a tropical escape in dessert form. Combining the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creaminess of coconut milk, this gelato offers a refreshing and exotic flavor that’s perfect for summer.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups fresh mango puree
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, coconut milk, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks and the remaining sugar in a bowl. Temper the yolks with the warm milk mixture and return to the saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
4. Remove from heat and stir in mango puree and lime juice. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
5. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Mango Coconut Gelato is a luscious tropical treat that combines vibrant fruit flavors with creamy coconut undertones. It’s a crowd-pleaser and an excellent choice for sunny days or tropical-themed gatherings.

Peanut Butter Swirl Gelato

Peanut Butter Swirl Gelato is a creamy, nutty indulgence that blends smooth peanut butter with a velvety gelato base. It’s a perfect treat for peanut butter lovers and pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks and remaining sugar until pale. Temper the yolks with the warm milk mixture and return to the saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
4. Stir in the peanut butter until fully combined. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
5. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Peanut Butter Swirl Gelato is rich, creamy, and packed with nutty goodness. Its indulgent flavor makes it a versatile dessert, perfect as a standalone treat or paired with chocolate desserts for a delightful combination.

Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato

Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato is an elevated version of classic chocolate gelato, infused with the nutty richness of hazelnuts. Perfect for those who love indulgent flavors with a hint of sophistication, this gelato is as decadent as it is satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ cup dark chocolate, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until pale. Temper with the warm milk mixture and return to the saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat until thickened (170°F or 77°C). Remove from heat and stir in dark chocolate and hazelnut spread until smooth.
4. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
5. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato combines rich chocolate with the irresistible nuttiness of hazelnuts, creating a luxurious treat perfect for any chocolate lover.

Pistachio Gelato

Pistachio Gelato is a creamy and nutty dessert that’s both unique and timeless. With the natural, vibrant flavor of pistachios, this gelato feels like a trip to an authentic Italian gelateria.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup pistachio paste
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, and half the sugar in a saucepan until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar and temper with the warm milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio paste and almond extract. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Pistachio Gelato is a delightful treat with a creamy texture and earthy nut flavor. Its vibrant green hue and luxurious taste make it an impressive dessert for any occasion.

Honey Lavender Gelato

Honey Lavender Gelato is a fragrant and floral dessert with a touch of sweetness. Perfect for those who enjoy unique flavor combinations, this gelato is light, creamy, and undeniably elegant.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and lavender in a saucepan until steaming. Remove from heat and steep for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture to remove lavender. Reheat and whisk with egg yolks, tempering them with the warm milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in honey, strain the mixture, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Honey Lavender Gelato offers a delicate balance of floral and sweet flavors. Its creamy texture and aromatic notes make it an excellent choice for a refined dessert experience.

Black Cherry Gelato

Black Cherry Gelato is a fruity and vibrant dessert bursting with the natural sweetness of cherries. With its rich color and refreshing taste, this gelato is perfect for summer days and beyond.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pitted black cherries
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Puree cherries with ¼ cup sugar until smooth. Strain to remove skins.
2. Heat milk, cream, and remaining sugar until steaming. Whisk egg yolks and temper with the warm milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in cherry puree and lemon juice. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Black Cherry Gelato is a refreshing and fruity dessert with a luscious texture. Its bold flavor and striking color make it a show-stopping treat for any occasion.

Almond Amaretto Gelato

Almond Amaretto Gelato is a creamy and luxurious dessert with a hint of liqueur. This gelato combines the nutty richness of almonds with the sweet, aromatic notes of amaretto for a truly indulgent experience.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup almond paste
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp amaretto liqueur

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and almond paste until steaming. Whisk until smooth.
2. Whisk egg yolks and temper with the warm mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in amaretto, strain the mixture, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Almond Amaretto Gelato is an elegant dessert with a perfect balance of nutty and sweet flavors. The hint of liqueur adds sophistication, making it ideal for special occasions.

Blueberry Lemon Gelato

Blueberry Lemon Gelato is a zesty and fruity delight that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of lemon. This gelato is light, refreshing, and perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Heat blueberries, ¼ cup sugar, and lemon zest in a saucepan until the berries burst. Puree and strain the mixture.
2. Heat milk, cream, and remaining sugar until steaming. Temper with egg yolks and return to the saucepan to cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in blueberry puree and lemon juice. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Blueberry Lemon Gelato is a refreshing and vibrant dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. Its beautiful color and light texture make it an irresistible summer treat.

Salted Caramel Gelato

Salted Caramel Gelato is a luscious and indulgent treat, blending the richness of caramel with a subtle hint of sea salt. This velvety gelato is perfect for those who love the interplay of sweet and savory in their desserts.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1. Heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until it melts and turns amber. Slowly whisk in milk and cream (be cautious of splatters).
2. Whisk egg yolks and temper with the caramel mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in sea salt, strain the mixture, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Salted Caramel Gelato offers a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and salty undertones, making it an irresistible dessert for caramel lovers.

Matcha Green Tea Gelato

Matcha Green Tea Gelato is a creamy, earthy treat with a unique flavor profile. Its vibrant green color and refreshing taste make it a favorite for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp matcha green tea powder
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, and half the sugar until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar and temper with the milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in matcha powder until smooth. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, churn in your gelato maker, and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Matcha Green Tea Gelato is a refreshing and sophisticated dessert, ideal for tea enthusiasts and those looking for a vibrant yet balanced flavor.

Banana Foster Gelato

Banana Foster Gelato is a decadent blend of caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and a hint of rum. This gelato captures the essence of the classic dessert in creamy, frozen form.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp rum (optional)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Sauté bananas with brown sugar and butter until caramelized. Add rum and cook for 1 minute. Puree the mixture.
2. Heat milk and cream, then temper with egg yolks. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in banana puree, strain, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Banana Foster Gelato brings the warm, caramelized flavors of the classic dessert into a creamy and luxurious gelato.

Lemon Basil Gelato

Lemon Basil Gelato is a refreshing and herbaceous treat with a bright citrus flavor. This unique gelato is perfect for summer, offering a delightful blend of tangy and fresh notes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, lemon zest, and basil until steaming. Let steep for 15 minutes, then strain.
2. Whisk egg yolks and temper with the infused milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Lemon Basil Gelato is a light and aromatic dessert with a perfect balance of citrus and herbal flavors, ideal for a refreshing end to a meal.

Coconut Mango Gelato

Coconut Mango Gelato is a tropical delight that combines creamy coconut with the sweet, tangy taste of ripe mangoes. This gelato is a sunny escape in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup mango puree (from fresh or frozen mangoes)
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut milk, cream, and half the sugar until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar and temper with the milk mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Stir in mango puree, strain, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Coconut Mango Gelato is a creamy and fruity treat that captures the essence of the tropics, making it an irresistible summer dessert.

Espresso Gelato

Espresso Gelato is a bold and creamy dessert with the robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee. This gelato is a caffeinated delight for coffee lovers everywhere.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and espresso powder until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks and temper with the espresso mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened (170°F or 77°C).
3. Strain the mixture and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Churn in your gelato maker and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Espresso Gelato is a smooth and invigorating dessert that pairs creamy texture with a bold coffee kick, perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!