Cool Italian Treats to Beat the Heat This Summer
1. Gelato
Gelato, or Italian ice cream, is one of the more popular Italian desserts. Unlike American ice cream, it tends to be lower in fat, and higher in sugar. The distinction between Gelato and standard ice cream is the significant difference in the way it’s made. Gelato tends to be more dense due to a much slower churning speed, less fat and less air used in the making process. This leaves for a more rich, robust flavor, with a very creamy texture. It is definitely a treat that the entire family can enjoy.
2. Panna Cotta
Panna Cotta is a scrumptious Italian treat made with cream and gelatin. It is commonly garnished with a coulis of berries, caramel or chocolate sauce. What makes panna cotta unique is the infused flavors. It is often infused with flavors like rum, vanilla or coffee to give it an extra kick of flavor.
3. Tiramisu
Tiramisu is known as Italy’s “pick me up” dessert. It is a popular coffee flavored custard, that is so decadent and rich in flavor, that if made right, you will become hooked. Tiramisu can be an acquired taste because of its’ bold flavor, but it is truly delicious. It is traditionally made with ladyfinger cookies, egg yolks, sugar, coffee, mascarpone cheese and cocoa powder, crafted beautifully and layered to perfection. Tiramisu is sure to be a hit!
4. Italian Trifle
Trifle is definitely an Italian family favorite. It is a light, fluffy layered custard cake often layered with fresh fruit and ladyfinger biscuits topped with whipped cream, but the variations are endless. Trifle is sometimes made with coffee, vanilla, and chocolate flavors as well.
5. Tartufo
Another ice cream dessert? Well, YES! Tartufo is an ice cream treat with a bit of a twist. It usually has two or more ice cream flavors, with either fresh fruit or syrup in the center, covered with a chocolate shell. Common flavors are raspberry, strawberry or cherry. The ice cream is shaped with hands and then the shell is usually made by pouring melted chocolate over the ice cream and then cooled.
These cool Italian treats will help you beat the heat this summer. Little Italy is full of delicious delicacies that you won’t want to miss and the best way to ensure you don’t is to join us on one of our neighborhood food tours.
