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Cinnamon Gelo: A Fragrant and Delicate Sicilian Dessert

Cinnamon Gelo: A Fragrant and Delicate Sicilian Dessert

Learn how to make cinnamon gelo, a creamy Sicilian spoon dessert bursting with aromatic warmth – the perfect finish to any meal.

Author: Mario Greco Published on: October 25, 2021
Categories: Desserts
⏱️
Prep Time
around 15 minutes
🔥
Cook Time
about 10 minutes
👥
Serve
Serves 4
📊
Difficulty
Easy
💰 Budget-friendly
🗓️ Autumn
4.8/5

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 litre water
  • 250g caster sugar
  • 90g cornflour
  • 20g cinnamon sticks
  • Crushed Bronte pistachios, to taste

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories
190 kcal
Carbohydrates
46 g
Fat
1 g
Protein
1 g

Cinnamon gelo is a classic Sicilian treat, refreshing and fragrant with a wonderfully silky texture. Made from an infusion of cinnamon sticks, sugar, and cornflour, this dessert charms with its simplicity and unmistakable scent. Served chilled and topped with crushed Bronte pistachios, it’s an elegant way to round off lunch or dinner.

👨‍🍳 Preparation

  1. 1

    Soak the cinnamon sticks in a litre of water for roughly 8 hours.

  2. 2

    Bring the infusion to the boil, then leave it to rest at room temperature for 24 hours to fully develop the flavours.

  3. 3

    Strain the liquid, discard the cinnamon sticks, and pour the infusion into a saucepan.

  4. 4

    Sieve the cornflour and gradually whisk it into the infusion to prevent lumps.

  5. 5

    Add the sugar and gently cook over a low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a glossy cream.

  6. 6

    Pour the mixture into moulds and leave it to cool completely at room temperature.

  7. 7

    Chill in the fridge for at least 3–4 hours, ideally overnight, until it sets to a pudding-like texture.

  8. 8

    Serve the cinnamon gelo cold, garnished with crushed Bronte pistachios.

💡 Tips and Variations

For a deeper flavour, add a strip of lemon zest while cooking or a dash of vanilla. If you prefer it sweeter, drizzle a little honey over the gelo just before serving.

📦 Storage

  • Keep cinnamon gelo covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Do not freeze, as the jelly-like texture will be affected.

🍷 Pairing

Enjoy your cinnamon gelo with a glass of semi-dry Marsala – a lightly amber, sweet, and aromatic wine that wonderfully complements the dessert’s spicy notes.

Give this lovely, fragrant cinnamon gelo a go at home – it’s simple to make yet feels truly special. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, it’s a gentle nod to Sicilian tradition that’s sure to bring a touch of elegance and warmth to your table. Do have a try and let the cosy flavours transport you straight to the heart of Sicily.

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