lemon gelato
This lemon gelato is pure brightness in a bowl - fresh lemon juice, whole milk, and sugar churned into something that tastes like summer distilled. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, no shortcuts.
When life hands you lemons
When life hands you lemons, make something worth remembering. Lemon has been brightening desserts for centuries - once a symbol of luxury, later a mark of freshness and purity. Ancient Persians preserved lemons in salt and honey; medieval Europeans used them to perfume custards and sweet wines. By the Renaissance, candied lemon peel and lemon creams appeared on royal tables, their tartness prized as a way to balance rich, buttery dishes.
Today, that same alchemy lives on in lemon gelato; a dessert that turns sharp citrus into silk. It’s light, clean, and quietly dramatic - proof that even the sourest things can end in sweetness.
Fun facts about lemons
Lemons are technically berries.
Lemon trees can produce fruit all year long if conditions are right.
Lemon leaves are edible and used in teas in some cultures.
Lemon peel has more vitamin C than the juice itself.
Lemons can float on water due to their density and air pockets in the peel.
Lemon juice can slow the browning of fruits like apples and avocados.
Lemon peels contain pectin, which can be used to thicken jams.
What is the history of lemon gelato?
Lemon gelato has a long, flavorful history. Lemons traveled from ancient Asia to Persia before reaching medieval Europe, where they were preserved in honey, used in custards, and candied for royal tables. By 16th century Italy artisans blended citrus with frozen cream, creating the first lemon gelato. Today, it’s a bright, refreshing dessert that turns sharp, tangy lemons into silky, irresistible flavor - proof that centuries of creativity can fit in a single scoop.
What are the health benefits of lemons?
Lemons are more than bright, tangy fruit - they are a centuries old powerhouse of wellness. Packed with vitamin C, they strengthen the immune system and help the body fight infections. Their antioxidants combat free radicals, supporting healthy skin and slowing signs of aging. Lemons also aid digestion! From reducing inflammation to supporting heart health, this humble citrus proves that small, sour beginnings can have big, lasting benefits.
Are lemons good for your mood?
Lemons do more than brighten food - they can brighten the mind! The sharp, clean scent of lemon has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and sharpen focus. Inhaling its aroma can lift energy, ease anxiety, and even enhance memory, a simple reminder that the smallest things can have an outsized effect. From ancient perfumers to modern aromatherapists, lemons have been prized not just for taste but their ability to awaken the senses and stir the spirit. A slice, a zest, or a drop of oil can turn a sour moment into clarity and light.
How to make lemon gelato?
In a food processor pulse together 1 cup of sugar and lemon zest of 5 lemons. In a medium pot over low heat bring 4 cups of milk to simmer. Lower the heat to low and stir in the lemon sugar and a pinch of salt. Cook for 30 minutes stirring frequently. Temper the 5 egg yolks. Place the yolks in a large bowl and slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of the hot milk while whisking vigorously. Then pour the yolk/milk mixture slowly back in the medium pot while continuously whisking. Continue to cook over low heat for another 30 minutes whisking frequently. Remove from heat and let the gelato base slightly cool. Then whisk in 1 tsp vanilla extract and lemon juice. Strain through a fine sieve into a large bowl and cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate until cold. Place the cold lemon gelato base into ice cream maker tub and churn for 25-35 minutes, or until the texture is like soft serve ice cream. Place the churned gelato into a freezer safe airtight container and freeze overnight. Serve with fresh lemon zest!
Tips
Put the tub from your ice cream maker in a freezer a day or two before starting this recipe.
Make sure to wash your lemons well when using the zest - most lemons sold in supermarkets are coated with thin layer of wax.
Make sure your container is freezer safe - not all types of glass are fit for freezer and may break.
When tempering the egg yolks pour the hot liquid in a small stream while constantly whisking to prevent them from scrambling. If poured too fast the yolks will end up chunky and scrambled instead of smooth.
Churning is an important step in ice cream/gelato making to incorporate air into the ice cream base during the freezing process for a smooth texture and to control the size of crystals, but over churning ice cream can cause emulsion breakdown (fat and water components to separating).
Recommended products to make this recipe
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