You can’t talk about popular weed strains without mentioning Gelato. Since its birth in 2014, not only has Gelato blown up into a household name amongst stoners, it has also been used as the backbone for many modern variants that fall under the dessert weed category and it has earned its legendary status.
Here are some things you should know about the famous indica-dominant hybrid.
WHAT IS GELATO STRAIN?
Gelato, also known as Gelato 33 or Larry Bird, is a predominantly indica weed strain. Its flowers carry dark purple hues with long orange hairs and a thick coat of milky white trichomes. The high trichome density contributes to how flavorful and potent this strain can be. That’s because the cannabinoids and terpenes, amongst other molecules, live inside the trichome oils. The more trichomes on a cannabis flower, the better its quality.
GELATO STRAIN GENETICS AND ORIGINS
The Gelato strain is a product of crossing Sunset Sherbert and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies. It was bred by legendary breeders Mario Guzman, better known as Mr. Sherbinskis (creator of Sunset Sherbert), and Jai Chang, also known as Jigga. These two breeders are original members of the Bay Area’s famous Cookie Family.
PARENT STRAIN 1: SUNSET SHERBERT
Sunset Sherbet, a renowned strain bred by Mario Guzman, is a cross between Thin Mint GSC and Pink Panties, peaking in popularity around 2012. Its vibrant green nugs, sometimes tinged with amber, exude a sweet aroma with tropical, floral, and earthy notes, enriched by terpenes like caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene.
This indica-dominant strain offers a dreamy cerebral and physical experience, inducing feelings of relaxation, happiness, and creativity. Cultivating Sunset Sherbet requires expertise due to its high demand, specific growth conditions and the challenge of obtaining authentic genetics.
PARENT STRAIN #2: THIN MINT GIRL SCOUT COOKIES
Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies is a balanced hybrid strain derived from Girl Scout Cookies, OG Kush, and F1 Durban Poison. With THC levels reaching 24%, it offers a mix of cerebral and calming effects, ideal for addressing anxiety, insomnia, and appetite loss. Predominant in the West Coast, Nevada, and Arizona, its flavor blends mint, vanilla, and sweet notes, making it distinct yet reminiscent of its iconic parent strains.
You can buy our SNOW Rainbow Gelato and enjoy the nice smoke.
WHAT ARE THE GELATO PHENOTYPES?
There are multiple versions of Gelato, called phenotypes, each with its own unique characteristics. Phenotypes are best described as cannabis plants that have the same lineage (in this case, Sherbert and Thin Mint GSC), but still express different attributes in their appearance, smell, taste, and effects. Think of it as the weed version of a litter of kittens having the same parents, but different fur patterns and personalities.
Gelato has several different phenotypes, and each one has particular attributes that make it unique enough to deserve its own name. You’ve got Gelato #25, aka Barry Bonds: Gelato #33, aka Larry Bird; Gelato #41 aka Bacio Gelato; Gelato #43, aka Gello Gelato; Gelato #47, aka Mochi Gelato; and Gelato #49, aka Acai Berry Gelato. All of them are popular choices for cannabis enthusiasts looking for a specific type of high
GELATO - INDICA OR SATIVA?
Gelato is an indica dominant hybrid strain, with a perfect balance of 55% indica and 45% sativa. This unique ratio means you get the relaxing effects of indica and the uplifting buzz of sativa. With Gelato’s slight indica dominance, you're set for an experience that's both calming and euphoric, ideal for chronic pain relief and easing muscle spasms.
GELATO STRAIN EFFECTS
Gelato can feel like both a head high and body high, depending on who smokes it, it is known to be one of the potent strains and of course, it is one of the most popular Gelato strains.
Since we each have a unique endocannabinoid system, we all process cannabis compounds differently. Some may have a high THC tolerance while others are the complete opposite. The nice balanced effects make this a great beginner strain but still a great strain for those vet cannabis users as well.
That said, you may likely hear people reporting that the Gelato genetics are something you definitely want to try out and experience the gelato strains next time you go to the cannabis dispensary. Here’s what you can expect:
- Creative: Gelato unlocks your creativity, making it perfect for artistic projects and brainstorming sessions.
- Euphoria: Though potently relaxing, Gelato isn’t expected to be a sleepy, couch-locking type of strain. Instead, you’ll just want to kick back with a smile on your face as the stresses of the day disappear gradually. This is also the perfect strain to bring a sense of happiness, and uplifting high.
- Focus: Stay sharp and focused, even as your body relaxes. It's great for tasks that need concentration.
- Relaxing: Many users say this strain produces relaxing effects that can help provide relief to stress, depression, headaches, chronic pain, and muscle spasms. This can produce both a nice mellow high but still an uplifting one with the high THC content in some of the varieties.
When purchasing Gelato or any strain, only buy it from high-quality brands that put great weed into their jars and bags. That will ensure that you get the proper experience that its breeders intended.
GELATO STRAIN THC LEVEL
The Gelato marijuana strain boasts a THC level that averages between 17-20%. That means it's got the power to deliver those euphoric and relaxing effects we all crave.
Perfect for more experienced cannabis users, Gelato is a great strain for those seeking a potent relaxation session. With its high THC content, it's no wonder medical marijuana patients turn to Gelato for relief from various conditions.
GELATO STRAIN TERPENES
Wondering what gives the Gelato weed strain its unique aroma and flavor? It's all about the terpenes! These natural compounds not only make Gelato smell amazing but also contribute to its effects.
- Caryophyllene: This terpene gives Gelato its spicy, peppery aroma. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for those seeking natural remedies for pain relief.
- Limonene: Bringing a zesty citrus scent, limonene is responsible for the uplifting and mood-enhancing effects of Gelato
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Humulene: With an earthy, woody aroma, humulene adds depth to the Gelato experience. It's also known for its appetite-suppressing properties, which is a bonus if you’re watching your munchies.
GELATO STRAIN TASTE/FLAVOR & SMELL
Gelato can smell and taste a few different ways, depending on the phenotype, who grew it, and how. Generally speaking, Gelato tastes like a mix of earthy, sweet, and gassy flavors.
TASTE
- Sweet: Gelato is known for its sweet, dessert-like flavor that makes each puff a treat.
- Vanilla: Along with its sweetness, you'll notice creamy vanilla undertones that add richness to the flavor profile.
- Mint: A subtle hint of mint, inherited from its Thin Mint parent strain, gives a refreshing finish to each hit.
- Berry & Citrus: Enjoy a burst of fruity flavors, with prominent notes of berry and citrus that make the taste vibrant and refreshing.
SMELL
- Sweet & Blueberry: Gelato has a scent reminiscent of sweet blueberries, making it enticing from the first sniff.
- Earthy: Breaking apart the gelato buds releases a rich, earthy aroma that grounds the sweet and fruity notes.
- Orange: There's also a zesty orange fragrance that adds a bright, citrusy twist to the aroma.
- Lavender & Woody: Finally, you'll detect hints of lavender and a woody scent that add complexity to Gelato's overall bouquet.
GELATO STRAIN SIMILAR STRAINS
If you're a fan of Gelato, you'll love these other strains that offer similar effects:
OREOZ
Oreoz is a deliciously decadent strain known for its dessert-like flavor profile, much like Gelato. It offers a sweet, creamy taste with hints of chocolate and a balanced high that combines relaxation with a touch of euphoria.
LEMON CHERRY GELATO
Lemon Cherry Gelato brings a fruity twist to the classic Gelato strain. With its vibrant citrus and cherry flavors, this strain delivers a refreshing and uplifting experience. It's perfect for those who love the fruity flavor of Gelato but want a bit more zing in their smoke.
WHITE TRUFFLE
White Truffle offers a unique earthy and musky flavor. It provides a deeply relaxing high, making it ideal for stress relief and unwinding. If you love the relaxing effects of Gelato, White Truffle is a great strain to try.
BISCOTTI
Biscotti is a sweet and spicy strain that offers a rich and complex flavor profile. It delivers a potent high that combines mental clarity with physical relaxation. Biscotti's balanced effects make it a great alternative to Gelato for those looking for a strong yet smooth experience.
WHERE TO BUY GELATO
Ready to get your hands on some premium Gelato strain? Here’s how you can score this top-notch cannabis:
VISIT OUR RETAIL LOCATIONS
Step into any SNOW retail location and immerse yourself in a world of premium cannabis products. Our friendly staff are on hand to help you choose the perfect product to match your needs. Not sure where the nearest SNOW store is? No worries! Check out our store locator to find the closest spot. Just pop in, and we'll take care of the rest!
OUR ONLINE SHOPPING
Prefer the comfort of shopping from your own home? We've got you covered! Head over to our online shop to browse our full selection of products. Shopping for cannabis has never been easier or more flexible. You can explore all our offerings, including the Gelato strain, and have them delivered right to your door.
Before you go! Check out our recipe for you to take that Gelato strain from the joint to the kitchen.
FROM OUR RECIPE BOX: NO-CHURN CANNABIS-INFUSED GELATO
Of course, if the name of the strain is none other than the beloved Gelato dessert, then what better thing to make then the name itself! Feel free to customize your recipe to add in flavor you might want to try like lemon, lavender, blueberry anything that will help satisfy those munchies and enhance the flavor!
Ingredients:
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2 cups heavy cream, chilled
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, chilled
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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3 tbsp cannabis-infused coconut oil (adjust based on desired potency)
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Optional: mix-ins like crushed cookies, fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts
Instructions for Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil:
1. Grind your Gelato strain cannabis buds finely.
2. In a saucepan on low heat, combine 1 cup of coconut oil with the ground cannabis.
3. Gently simmer on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Ensure the temperature doesn't exceed 240°F (115°C) to prevent THC degradation.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove the plant material.
5. Allow the oil to cool and store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Gelato Instructions:
1. In a large, chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer or a whisk until stiff peaks form. This means the cream will hold its shape rather than dripping off the whisk.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the chilled sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cannabis-infused coconut oil until smooth and well combined.
3. Carefully fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Use gentle, sweeping motions to combine without deflating the airy whipped cream.
4. If you're adding mix-ins, gently fold them into the mixture at this point.
5. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or an airtight container, spreading it out evenly.
6. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent ice crystals from forming.
7. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm. Ideally, leave it overnight for the best texture.
8. When ready to serve, remove the gelato from the freezer and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Enjoy your creamy, homemade, no-churn, cannabis-infused Gelato!
Note: Always consume cannabis edibles responsibly. The effects can take 1-2 hours to manifest and can last several hours. Start with a small portion and wait to see how it affects you before consuming more.
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