Do you love espresso’s taste but want something a little sweeter? If so, you’re in luck! 

Espresso gelato is the perfect blend of rich espresso flavor and sweetness. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think. 

All you need are a few simple ingredients and an ice cream maker, and you’ll be enjoying homemade espresso gelato in no time.

This recipe is simple enough, but the end result is nothing short of amazing. Just make sure you use quality espresso, as the coffee flavor is really what shines through in this recipe.

How to Make Espresso Gelato at Home 
How to Make Espresso Gelato at Home

Preparation Time: 30 mins | Cooking Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hour | Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients:

1 cup whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup sugar

3 tablespoons instant espresso powder

6 egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Combine milk, cream, sugar, and espresso powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, frequently stirring, until the mixture comes to a simmer.

2. Whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract in a bowl.

3. Once the milk mixture has come to a simmer, slowly pour it into the bowl with the egg yolks, constantly whisking to prevent the eggs from cooking.

4. Pour the mixture into the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickening.

5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before pouring into your ice cream maker. Freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Serve and enjoy!

Adding alcohol to your Espresso Gelato recipe

If you want to make an adult version of this dessert, feel free to add a shot of your favorite liquor. Just add it when you pour the mixture and follow the rest of the instructions. We recommend something like rum, whiskey, or even amaretto.

Sugar-free espresso gelato recipe:

This recipe can easily be adapted if you are watching your sugar intake. Simply substitute the sugar for an equal amount of your favorite sugar-free sweetener. We like stevia or monk fruit extract, but any sugar-free sweetener will work. Taste the mixture before freezing and add more sweetener if needed.

A great tasting, dairy-free version of an espresso gelato

This recipe can easily be lactose-free if you or your guests are lactose intolerant. We like to use almond milk and coconut cream, but any plant-based milk will work. Simply substitute the milk and cream for an equal amount of your favorite plant-based milk and cream. The final result will be just as creamy and delicious.

Final thoughts

If you want to make espresso gelato at home, all you need is a few simple ingredients and some patience. Just make sure you use quality espresso, as the coffee flavor is really what shines through in this recipe. And if you want to make an adult version of this dessert, simply add a shot of your favorite liquor. The result is a rich, creamy, and delicious dessert that is sure to please. Cheers!

If you loved this recipe, you’d love our other espresso-based recipes. So be sure to check out our recipe section today! From coffee cake to vegan Tiramisu, we’ve got something for everyone.