Creamy Chocolate Gelato Recipe

Indulge in the rich, velvety smoothness of homemade Creamy Chocolate Gelato. Made with a luscious custard base and premium dark chocolate, this classic Italian-style frozen dessert delivers deep, decadent flavor and a perfectly creamy texture — perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings any time of year.

This ultra-chocolaty, dairy-free Sicilian-style gelato -- made without eggs or cream -- is relatively lean but still creamy-smooth and flavorful. The coconut milk used for the base gives it a silky, rich mouthfeel and a subtle coconut flavor.

Why You'll Love This Gelato

    This gelato uses a creamy custard base infused with high‑quality dark chocolate, yielding a velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor. It’s easy to churn, freezer-friendly, and ideal for any dessert lover craving something luxurious yet simple to make at home.

Creamy Chocolate Gelato Recipe

    Prep Time: 15 minutes

    Cook time: 15 minutes

    Yield: Makes 1 quart

Creamy Chocolate Gelato Recipe Ingredients

    1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably natural (see note)

    2 14-ounce cans "lite" coconut milk (about 3 1/2 cups), divided

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar

    2 tablespoons cornstarch

    1/8 teaspoon salt

Creamy Chocolate Gelato Recipe Instructions

    Put cocoa in a medium bowl and whisk in enough coconut milk (about 2/3 cup) to make a smooth paste. Stir in vanilla.

    Mix sugar, cornstarch and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the remaining coconut milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the mixture begins to barely simmer around the edges. Then, stirring constantly and scraping the sides and corners of the pan to prevent scorching, let the mixture simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes to fully cook the cornstarch. Scrape the hot mixture into the bowl with the cocoa mixture. Whisk until well blended. Let cool, undisturbed, for about 45 minutes.

    Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 3 hours.

    Pour the gelato mixture into the canister of an ice cream maker. Freeze according to manufacturer's directions.

    To make ahead: Prepare through Step 2; refrigerate for up to 1 day. Store gelato in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. For the best texture, let soften slightly before serving.

Note: Cocoa powder comes in two styles: natural and Dutch-processed. Dutch-processed cocoa has been treated with alkali, or "Dutched," to neutralize the natural acidity of cocoa, while natural has not. For this recipe, we prefer the taste of natural cocoa powder, although either type can be used.

Creamy Chocolate Gelato Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2-cup serving : 186 calories; 7 g fat; 5 g saturated fat; 0 g monounsaturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 30 g carbohydrates; 3 g protein; 2 g fiber; 64 mg sodium; 83 mg potassium

2 carbohydrate servings

Exchanges: 2 carbohydrates (other)

Craving more sweet delights?

Whether you're in the mood for decadent cakes, creamy puddings, flaky pastries, cookies, or refreshing fruit-based treats, our collection of irresistible dessert recipes has something for every occasion. From simple weeknight indulgences to impressive show-stoppers for special gatherings, there's no shortage of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Browse our full selection of dessert recipes and discover your next favorite treat today!

Explore More Dessert Recipes

Gelato Recipe, Italian

 

Subscribe to Receive our Gourmet Recipes


Low-Calorie Creamy Chocolate Gelato

© Tribune Media Services

World-renowned chefs with an extraordinary passion for food share their passion on iHaveNet.com. These chefs make great cooking easier than imagined. Each gourmet recipe features expert advice and an easy-to-make recipe. Exactly what you need to transform your home cooking from acceptable to delectable