Description
This classic Italian Ice Cream Tartufo is a decadent frozen dessert featuring creamy layers of chocolate and vanilla gelato, a surprise cherry center, a cocoa crumb crust, and a crunchy chocolate shell. Perfect for elegant entertaining or summer indulgence.
Ingredients
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1 pint vanilla gelato (or ice cream)
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1 pint chocolate or pistachio gelato
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6 maraschino cherries
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1/2 cup crushed pistachios
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1/2 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
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1/4 cup cocoa powder
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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Optional: chocolate chips or chocolate shell for coating
Instructions
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Line a muffin tin with plastic wrap or use small round molds.
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Mix cookie crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into the molds to create a base and partial shell. Freeze for 10 minutes.
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Scoop a small amount of chocolate or pistachio gelato into each mold. Press a maraschino cherry into the center.
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Cover with vanilla gelato and smooth the tops. Freeze for 3–4 hours until completely firm.
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Before serving, unmold and roll each tartufo in more cookie crumbs, crushed pistachios, or drizzle with a chocolate shell.
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Serve chilled, ideally on a frosted plate for presentation.
Notes
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You can prepare these ahead and keep frozen for up to a week.
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Try swapping the cherry with a chocolate truffle or raspberry for variation.
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Pistachio gelato adds a nutty flavor and traditional Italian flair.