Modeled on the traditional Italian trifle dessert named zuppa Inglese, meaning English soup, this classic gelato flavor combines the sweet custard base with bits of cookies, lady fingers, or sponge cake. As the original dessert, which employs Alchermes herb liqueur, the gelato is also occasionally elevated with the addition of various liqueurs which are used to coat the sponge pieces before they are folded into or layered with the creamy custard base.

Similar to the modernized versions of the cake, the ice cream can also include various additions such as candied fruit, and it is occasionally topped with a drizzle of melted chocolate.