The Fresh Market is usually where I head when I’m looking for my next Jeni’s, Graeter’s or Three Twins fix, however recently their own generic line of gelatos had peaked my interest. Unique flavors like Tiramisu & Mascarpone and Sweet & Spiced Gingerbread were simple and effective, but lacked the mystery associated with their Biscotti with Italian Fig. Seeing as this isn’t a combination of tastes you commonly see in a frozen dessert, I had little idea of what to expect. The Fresh Market writes on the back of the carton, “we’ve captured a true Italian tradition with this gelato recipe. A rich, creamy biscotti-flavored base melded with swirls of sweet Italian fig – simply perfect.” Biscotti (or twice baked cookies) and fig may sound like an odd duo, but as I’d soon find out, would make a pleasant pair inside a pint.
After removing the polka-dotted lid, I was a bit surprised at the bright yellow shade of the gelato; something I hadn’t expected from the biscotti base. The 200 calories per serving is right in line with the other options from The Fresh Market and pretty standard as far as gelatos are concerned. My first bite is free of the fig swirl and brings flavors I’ve never before experienced in frozen form. Although I wouldn’t be able to pinpoint biscotti in a blind taste test, the overly sweet base is smooth and has a thick consistency that’s slow to melt. The gelato provides just enough flavor and texture to keep me interested, despite only being accompanied by a small swirl.
These petite, purple stripes effectively enhance the biscotti base and add an influx of fig flavoring. The dark swirl also incorporates some of the seeds, which gives the finish of each bite an interesting texture. Although I probably wouldn’t repeat this purchase, it was worth the price to taste a mixture of ingredients you’ll be hard pressed to find elsewhere. This wasn’t quite on the level of gelatos from Talenti or Haagen Dazs, but was still enjoyable. Hopefully The Fresh Market will continue to try out different, creative combinations in their future flavors.
Where I Found It: The Fresh Market
Grade: C
