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Lime Sorbet

Lime Sorbet Recipe

This Lime Sorbet Recipe is a refreshing, tangy, and easy-to-make frozen treat perfect for hot days. Made with fresh lime juice, zest, sugar, and water, it offers a smooth, citrusy flavor with a light texture. You can prepare it using an ice cream maker for a creamy consistency or a no-churn method for a simple, hands-on approach. Optional add-ins like mint or coconut water enhance the taste, while a splash of alcohol keeps it soft. Enjoy this homemade, dairy-free dessert as a cooling snack or a zesty palate cleanser!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 People
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Citrus Juicer
  • Zester or Grater:
  • Small Saucepan -
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or Spoon -
  • Fine Mesh Strainer -
  • Ice Cream Maker (Optional)
  • Shallow Freezer-Safe Container
  • Fork or Spatula
  • Airtight Container

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 2 cups water
  • ¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

Optional:

  • 1-2 tablespoons coconut water (for extra freshness)
  • 1-2 tablespoons light corn syrup or honey (for a smoother texture)
  • 1-2 tablespoons tequila, rum, or vodka (to prevent hard freezing)
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish or blending in)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Limes
    Zest the limes to get 1 tablespoon of lime zest.
    Juice the limes to get 1 cup of fresh lime juice, then strain to remove pulp and seeds.
  • Make the Simple Syrup
    In a small saucepan, heat 2 cups of water and ¾ to 1 cup of sugar over medium heat.
    Stir until the sugar fully dissolves, then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  • Mix and Chill
    In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, and cooled simple syrup.
    Optionally, add coconut water, honey, or alcohol for extra flavor and texture.Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • Freeze the Sorbet
    With an Ice Cream Maker: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 20-30 minutes until smooth.
    Without an Ice Cream Maker: Pour into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes for about 3 hours until creamy.
  • Serve and Enjoy
    Let the sorbet sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.Garnish with lime slices or mint leaves, then serve and enjoy!

Notes

Adjust Sweetness – Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust the sugar to balance the tartness of the lime juice.
Chill for Best Results – Refrigerating the mixture for at least 1 hour before freezing helps develop a smoother texture.
Prevent Hard Freezing – Adding a small amount of alcohol (1-2 tbsp of vodka, rum, or tequila) helps keep the sorbet from freezing too hard.
No Ice Cream Maker? No Problem! – If using the no-churn method, stir the sorbet every 30 minutes while freezing to break up ice crystals and achieve a creamier consistency.
Storage Tip – Store in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the sorbet’s surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Serving Tip – Let the sorbet sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping for a softer, smoother texture.
Following these tips will ensure a refreshing, smooth, and delicious lime sorbet every time!
Keyword Lime Sorbet Recipe