Description
This refreshing Lemon Sorbet is a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, made with simple ingredients like freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, and water. Churned to a smooth, icy texture and optionally garnished with fresh mint, it’s a delightful and light dessert ideal for hot days or as a palate cleanser.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Sorbet Base
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–5 large lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: Combine water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Mix Lemon Ingredients: Once the syrup has cooled, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the lemon mixture to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to enhance the flavor and prepare it for churning.
- Churn the Sorbet: Pour the chilled lemon mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Continue until it achieves a smooth and thick consistency characteristic of sorbet.
- Freeze to Set: Transfer the churned sorbet into a container and freeze it for an additional 2 to 3 hours until it is firm enough to scoop.
- Serve and Garnish: Scoop the firm sorbet into bowls or glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired for a burst of color and aroma.
Notes
- Ensure the simple syrup cools completely before adding the lemon juice to prevent cooking the juice and altering the flavor.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best bright and natural flavor.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until firm.
- Fresh mint garnish adds a nice aromatic contrast but is optional.
- This sorbet is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free.
