When the temperature rises, there's nothing quite like this easy homemade lime sorbet recipe to cool you down. With only three ingredients, it's perfect for a hot day. Fresh limes bring a burst of tangy flavor that’s really refreshing.
Prevent your screen from going dark
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Total Time4 hourshrs20 minutesmins
Servings: 3.5Cups
Author: Maria Corcuera
Equipment
1 ice cream maker optional
1 food processor optional
1 freezer-safe container
Ingredients
1 ½cupswater
1 ½cupsgranulated sugar
1 ½cupslime juicefreshly squeezed
2largelime zest
2tablespoonsalcoholoptional
Instructions
You can make this sorbet in three ways: using an ice cream machine, a food processor, or adding a splash of alcohol to skip both.In all 3 ways, you need to start by making the lime mixture.
Start by heating the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Take it off the heat. Add the lime juice and zest of the lime, then mix well.
1 ½ cups (354.9 ml) water, 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar, 1 ½ cups (354.9 ml) lime juice, 2 large lime zest
Ice Cream Machine:
Refrigerate the mixture until completely cooled. Pour the ice cream mixture into your ice cream maker's frozen ice cream container, then churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container, cover it to prevent ice crystals from forming, and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Food processor or High-speed blender:
To make it with a food processor or blender, pour the ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 4 hours.Cut the frozen mixture into large chunks before serving, then blend it in a food processor or high-speed blender. Serve right away.
Splash of Alcohol:
Alcohol helps ice cream stay soft because it lowers the freezing point of the mixture. This prevents it from freezing completely solid, resulting in a creamier and more scoopable texture.Add 2-4 tablespoons of any hard liquor you like (tequila, mezcal, vodka, rum), pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, and freeze for at least 4 hours.You can add an extra splash of alcohol before serving for an extra kick!
2 tablespoons alcohol
Notes
Tips and Tricks for the Best Lime Sorbet Recipe
Here are some tips and tricks for making the perfect lime sorbet:
Use Fresh Limes: Fresh lime juice is crucial for the best flavor. Avoid bottled lime juice as it can taste artificial.
Avoid Ice Crystals: Cover the sorbet with plastic wrap before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals from forming on top.
Serve at the Right Temperature: Let the sorbet sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Experiment with Add-ins: Add chopped mint, berries, or a splash of coconut milk for a unique twist on the classic lime sorbet.