Ingredients:
- 4 large lemons
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Start by zestining all four lemons to obtain the vibrant citrus flavor needed for the gelato. Set the lemon zest aside but don’t discard the lemons just yet!
Step 2: Make the Lemon Juice
Squeeze the lemons to extract the juice. You will need approximately half a cup of lemon juice for this recipe. Set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Gently heat the mixture over low heat until it reaches a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching. Once it simmers, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Whisk the Sugar and Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and the egg yolks until they are well combined and the mixture becomes slightly creamy.
Step 5: Temper the Eggs
Add a small amount of the warm milk and cream mixture to the sugar and egg yolks, whisking constantly. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from curdling. Gradually pour the rest of the milk and cream mixture into the bowl while whisking continuously.
Step 6: Cook the Base
Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and return it to low heat. Stir the mixture constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This process should take around 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Step 7: Add the Lemon Flavor
Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the strained mixture and stir until well incorporated.
Step 8: Chill and Freeze
Cover the mixture and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will typically take around 25-30 minutes.
Step 9: Freeze for Perfect Consistency
Transfer the churned gelato into a lidded container. Place it in the freezer for an additional 2-3 hours to achieve the perfect scoopable texture. The gelato is now ready to be savored!
Now that you have mastered the art of making homemade lemon gelato, serve it in a bowl or cone and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon for that extra touch. Enjoy this delectable treat on a sunny day or anytime you’re craving a burst of citrusy goodness!
So, why wait? Head to the kitchen, grab those lemons, and get ready to create a delightful homemade lemon gelato that will amaze your friends and family. Bon appétit!