Making Italian Ice
Italian ice is made by freezing ingredients while mixing them together. This gives it a smooth consistency. It is served within 36 hours of mixing. Italian ice features delicious, real fruit flavors. It has over 65 varieties.
Ingredients and Texture
Italian ice is a non-dairy frozen treat. It is made from blending ice, sweetened fruit juice, and water. This gives it a texture slightly firmer than a smoothie. The term "water ice" is Philadelphia slang for Italian ice. When ingredients are combined, the mixture becomes very soft.
Italian Ice Characteristics
Italian ice is denser than ice cream. It has less butterfat, less cream, and more milk. Additionally, it has less air and more sugar than ice cream. The smaller the ice crystals, the smoother the Italian ice. More air makes it smoother too.
Ultimately, individuals decide if Italian ice is healthy. Italian ice and water ice differ. Water ice uses flavored syrup and water. Italian ice uses fruit juice or puree.