What's the Difference Between Gelato and Ice Cream?

Imagine you’re at Compa’s dessert counter, eyes darting between a vibrant scoop of gelato and a classic ice cream cone. One side has that silky, dense scoop of gelato, bursting with rich flavour. Other side is classic ice cream that’s creamy, cold, and oh-so nostalgic.

They both look delicious, but did you ever ask the server: what is gelato, really? And how’s it different from ice cream?

Most people think gelato and ice cream are the same, as they share a lot of creamy goodness. But there is a real difference. These two frozen favourites, though look alike, but are in a category of their own.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the difference between gelato and ice cream & explore their origins, textures, and flavour. Come down to us to try both and satisfy your sweet tooth. Buon appetito!

Gelato vs Ice Cream | A Quick Scoop of Origins

Gelato means “frozen” in Italian, has deep roots in Italy. It’s believed to have been first whipped up during the Renaissance by a clever Florentine chef for the legendary Medici family. Fast forward a few centuries, and gelato has become a creamy symbol of Italian dessert culture, lovingly made and savoured across the globe.

Now, let’s talk about ice cream. You’re enjoying this yummy treat since childhood. But do you know, which country did ice cream come from? Well, let us tell you.

Ancient versions of this ice cream showed up in China and Persia in the 9^th century. Yup, this modern looking frozen dessert is older than most of the civilisations. You can also find the evidences of it in Chinese literature. E.g. Yang Wanli wrote the praising lines for an icy & crunchy refreshment that “appears congealed and yet it seems to float”. 

Now, it’s evolved into the custard-style treat we know and love in Europe and the U.S.

How an Ice Cream is Defined?

Classic ice cream is made with milk, cream, sugar, and egg yolks, especially in traditional recipes. The mixture is cooked into a creamy custard, cooled, and churned at high speed to whip in air.

The results come in a light, fluffy texture with a higher fat content and that signature creamy taste. In the words of Yang Wanli:

“It looks so smooth but still has a crisp texture,

It appears congealed and yet it seems to float.

Like jade, it breaks at the bottom of the dish

As with snow, it melts in the light of the sun.”

Store-bought ice cream is served at very cold temperature, that’s why it is firmer and easier to scoop.

Then, What is Gelato?

Gelati or gelato is Italy’s answer to ice cream, but smoother, denser, and more flavourful.

Both gelato and ice cream start with a similar custard base. But gelato uses more milk, less cream, and skips the eggs altogether. It’s also churned more slowly, which means less air and a silkier, denser texture. Additionally, it’s served slightly warmer than ice cream, allowing those rich, natural flavours to shine with every spoonful.

So, What’s the Difference Between Gelato and Ice Cream?

It’s all about how they’re made, their ingredients, the texture, and the experience they deliver. They both reflect the rich history & culinary perfection associated with them.

Ice cream & Gelato: Ingredient Comparison

If we look at the ingredients, gelato recipe differs from ice cream in the following ways.

Be it an ice cream machine or gelato factory, both put a lot of effort and tradition in the process. That’s why, every scoop burst with flavours you love.

Is Gelato Vegetarian?

In most cases, gelato is vegetarian. It is made without eggs and doesn’t contain Gelatin. So, it is a great choice if you want to avoid animal-derived ingredients. Though it contains dairy products.

Just Make sure to check the flavour ingredients and ask the server clearly. Some versions can also include non-vegetarian add-ins.

Gelato versus Ice Cream | Texture and Churning

Ever noticed that gelato feels denser and silkier than ice cream? That’s because of how they’re churned.

• Gelato: Churned slowly, incorporating less air (25-30% overrun). It creates a dense, creamy, velvety texture that melts smoothly on your tongue. It’s served at a slightly warmer temperature, making it softer and scoopable.
• Ice Cream: Churned faster, whipping in more air (50-100% overrun). This makes it fluffier and lighter but can feel colder and firmer when served.

Craving something rich and intense? Grab a gelato Maitland-inspired flavor at Compa. Want a lighter treat? Our ice cream Rouse Hill-style scoops are calling your name.

Ice Cream vs Gelato: Serving and Storage

• Ice Cream: Kept colder (-18°C or lower) to stay firm. It has a longer freezer life, thanks to stabilisers, but fresh is always best.
• Gelato: Stored and served at warmer temperatures (-10°C to -12°C) to maintain its soft, creamy texture. It’s enjoyed fresh, as it doesn’t freeze as solidly as ice cream.

Flavour Intensity: Why Gelato is Ice Cream with Extra Oomph

Because it has less fat and air, the flavours in gelato ice cream are more concentrated. It gives the denser and milkier taste that lingers on tongue. A scoop of pistachio gelato tastes like actual pistachios, not just a hint of nutty flavour. Ice cream, with its higher fat content, can sometimes coat the palate, muting flavours slightly.

On the other hand, traditional ice cream has mild flavours and more of a crunchy icy feel. Its flavours don’t linger but feel airy and light.

So, which one wins? We’ll say it is a matter of preference.

Gelato & Ice Cream: Pairings You can Try

At Compa, our gelato & coffee pairings are a fan favourite. You can have a a scoop of hazelnut gelato alongside a bold espresso. Each bite and sip will enhance the other & create a perfect harmony of flavours. Your taste buds will definitely thank you for such a treat.

While for ice cream, you can pair the airy texture with dense cookies. Or have some nuts, fruits or chocolate spread on it. Our ice cream flavours, like classic vanilla or chocolate, balances the flavours and offer the nostalgic sweetness we all crave.

Drop by Compa to Fulfil Your Sweet Cravings

We love “Food & Friendship” in every form, especially the sweet ones. Our Italian-inspired café celebrates the joy of sharing desserts.

You can get a blend of ice cream richness with strong coffee flavours. Get Affagato at Compa made with authentic Italian methods. We use fresh & high-quality ingredients to create flavours that transport you to Italy at the instant.

Because at Compa, every bite is a chance to connect, laugh, and savour the sweet life.

Can’t make it in? Order through Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Menulog for a taste of Italy at home.

Explore Our Menu Here