Dairy & Eggs

Creme Fraiche in gelato

Creme fraiche is a thick, matured cream cultured with lactic bacteria, typically standardized to 30% fat. In gelato it acts as a tangy, high-fat dairy component that enriches body while adding a gentle acidic note.

Balancing parameters

Per 100 g of product, verified against independent food-science sources (listed below).

ParameterValue
Total Solids35.9%
Water64.1%
Sugars0%
Fat30%
MSNF5.9%
Protein2.3%
POD (sweetening power)0.5
PAC (anti-freezing power)3

Typical use: 5-15% of the total mix

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How to use it in gelato

Use creme fraiche as a partial replacement for cream to add fat, dairy solids and a lactic tang that balances very sweet or fruit bases. Its fat (30%) builds richness and slows meltdown, while its low sugar means it contributes little POD (about 0.5) and modest PAC (about 3.0) from lactose alone, so it barely affects the freezing point. Because lactose sits in the milk-solids-non-fat fraction, watch total MSNG to avoid a sandy, over-concentrated texture. It shines in fromage-blanc, cheesecake, lemon and berry gelati where acidity is desirable.

Origin & background

Creme fraiche originated in the dairy regions of northern France, especially Normandy. Isigny Sainte-Mere creme fraiche was granted French AOC (Appellation d'Origine Controlee) status in 1986, later becoming a protected AOP/PDO product, the first cream to earn such protection.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

More dairy & eggs ingredients

Substitutes for Creme Fraiche