Refreshing Ninja Creami Blueberry Gelato Recipe

Directions

• Start by preparing the blueberries. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries release their juices and the mixture begins to boil, about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the berries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly.
• Next, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the tablespoon of lemon juice. This will add a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the blueberries. Allow the blueberry mixture to cool to room temperature. This step is crucial as it prevents the gelato mixture from becoming too warm, which can affect the texture.
• Once cooled, transfer the blueberry mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. For an extra smooth gelato, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds and skins. This step ensures a silky texture in your final gelato.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined. The milk and cream should be well-mixed to create a rich, creamy base.
• Gently stir the blueberry puree into the milk and cream mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring that the beautiful purple color is evenly distributed throughout.
• Pour the combined mixture into a container and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but for best results, leave it overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a smoother texture when frozen.
• After chilling, transfer the mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container. Secure the lid tightly and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for a full 24 hours. This extended freezing time helps the gelato firm up properly, setting the stage for the perfect creamy texture.
• Once the mixture is thoroughly frozen, remove the pint container from the freezer and place it in the Ninja Creami machine. Select the “Gelato” function and let the machine work its magic. This process takes about 2-3 minutes.
• If the gelato is too soft for your liking, you can reprocess it using the “Gelato” function until it reaches the desired consistency. Don’t be afraid to reprocess it a couple of times; this ensures your gelato is perfectly creamy and smooth.
• Finally, scoop the creamy blueberry gelato into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint if desired. This step not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the flavor. Enjoy immediately, and savor every refreshing bite!