Gelato is a treat revered for its creamy texture and intense flavor, often described as the Italian cousin to American ice cream. The primary differences between gelato and ice cream are the fat content and air incorporation. Gelato is churned at a slower speed, which introduces less air, making it denser, and it typically has a lower fat content since it’s made with more milk than cream. This high-protein, low-sugar pistachio gelato recipe gives you all the indulgence of the traditional dessert with a health-conscious twist.

Why You’ll Love This Gelato

This pistachio gelato is a refreshing departure from overly sweetened desserts. High in protein and low in sugar, it’s crafted for fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to indulge sensibly. The rich, nutty flavor of pistachios shines through in every spoonful, and the creamy texture will satisfy any gelato aficionado’s dream. By using high-quality, sugar-free sweeteners and protein-rich ingredients, this gelato not only pleases the palate but also fits into a health-focused lifestyle.

Ingredients:

2 cups unsweetened almond milk
1 cup heavy cream (or a low-fat alternative for less richness)
3/4 cup granulated erythritol or another sugar-free sweetener
1 cup unsalted pistachios, finely ground. I use this food processor from Cuisinart
2 scoops vanilla whey protein powder. Like my review for the Double Rich Chocolate, I also enjoy their Vanilla Ice Cream flavor
1 tsp pure almond extract
1/2 tsp xanthan gum (optional, for texture)

Instructions for Pistachio Gelato:

In a saucepan, heat almond milk, heavy cream, and sweetener on medium heat until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
Remove from heat and stir in the ground pistachios, whey protein, almond extract, and xanthan gum until well combined.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a creamy, soft-serve consistency. I love this ice cream maker from Cuisinart.
Transfer the gelato to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, about 2-3 hours.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 200-250
Proteins: 8-10g
Carbohydrates: 8-10g (Net Carbs: 2-3g)
Sugars: <1g
Fats: 15-18g

This pistachio gelato is the perfect dessert for those who love to indulge without compromising their health goals. It’s a delightful way to end a meal or enjoy a mid-day treat, giving you a boost of protein and the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios without the added sugar. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!