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Lemon Sorbet Recipe

4.7 from 309 reviews

This refreshing Lemon Sorbet is a perfect icy treat with a bright, tangy lemon flavor balanced by a simple sugar syrup. Made with real lemon juice and zest, it’s churned to a slushy perfection in an ice cream machine, but can also be made without one. A splash of vodka is optional for texture and flavor. Ideal for cooling down on warm days or as a palate cleanser between meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar (or granulated erythritol)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp vodka (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ice Cream Machine: Set up your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it’s pre-chilled and ready for churning.
  2. Make Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely, then refrigerate until cold.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Once the sugar syrup is chilled, mix it with lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional vodka.
  4. Churn Sorbet: Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker and churn for about 15 minutes. The mixture should thicken to a slushy consistency.
  5. Freeze and Stir: Transfer the slushy sorbet to a container and freeze for 1 hour. Stir well to break up ice crystals.
  6. Check Texture: If still slushy, freeze for an additional 30 minutes and stir again. Repeat this step until the sorbet achieves a smooth, scoopable texture.
  7. Serve: Scoop the sorbet into bowls or glasses and serve immediately, or keep frozen until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • You can substitute sugar with granulated erythritol for a lower-calorie version.
  • Vodka helps prevent the sorbet from freezing too hard but is optional.
  • If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can place the mixture in a shallow container in the freezer, stirring vigorously every 30 minutes until firm.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh zest for the best flavor.
  • Store sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.

Keywords: lemon sorbet, lemon dessert, frozen lemon treat, homemade sorbet, refreshing dessert, low fat dessert