My first experience with Talenti, Sea Salt Caramel, had guaranteed I'd revisit some of the selections of this budding brand of gelato. I'd heard good thing about Caramel Cookie Crunch from a few of my fellow ice cream enthusiasts, but after seeing the marbling of the caramel pressed up against the outside of this container, this flavor's fate was sealed. Talenti has turned to a fior de latte gelato to act as the foundation. After Googling exactly what fior de latte gelato means, I discover that the phrase translates to "flower of milk", but in the world of gelato; it equates to a sweet cream flavor. In addition, A lavish swirl of dulce de leche caramel is drizzled about and the flavor is finished off with a chunks of cookies. After admiring how aesthetically pleasing this pint is, I twist off the top to reveal more of the same.
Although I knew I shouldn't expect the bliss I experienced with Sea Salt Caramel, it's hard not to have high hopes. Unfortunately, my expectations diminish quickly as my spoon meets the sweet cream base. This just didn't have the same velvety texture that set the caramel gelato apart from everything else. Once I grew accustomed to the consistency of this particular gelato, the overly mild taste was able to do little more than provide a canvas to showcase the other ingredients. The large concentrations of the golden, dulce de leche sauce had a rich flavor profile and was reminiscent of the gourmet caramel found in Sea Salt Caramel; however the small stripes didn't add much of anything besides a touch of color.
Where I Found It: Ingles Markets
Grade: C
This was good, but I was disappointed by the cookie mix-ins and small amount of caramel. My pint didn't look as good as yours lol :( I wish there had been more lustrous ribbons of caramel instead of weak pockets because its taste was delicious, not at all of a stringy texture either. This is the only Talenti's flavor that I've tried and because of the lackluster performance, I've been putting off trying the Sea Salt Caramel flavor.
ReplyDeleteJenny, believe me. You MUST try the Sea Salt Caramel. It will change your perception of ice cream/gelato and set a new standard. But be careful, it's VERY addictive. You've been warned!
DeleteI bought this one today. I'll give it a shot and see how it goes. Your reviews are great. Mine aren't as eloquent. Thus far I've had the superior Sea Salt Caramel, the Double Dutch Chocolate and now I'll be trying this. I wish our local market carried more of the flavors you've reviewed as well as the ones on their website but I suppose they carry what sells best. I'd really like to try the butter pecan and the german chocolate cake. Your site is great.
ReplyDeleteAt least you have access to their Sea Salt Caramel, my personal favorite. That's a bummer you can't find the Southern Butter Pecan and German Chocolate Cake versions. Maybe try some of the smaller specialty markets in your area for a different selection.
DeleteThanks for all the compliments and thanks for following along with the blog!