Granitas offer a sophisticated option for Easter gatherings, serving as invigorating palate cleansers. Delightful varieties include Lemon Basil, Raspberry Rose, and Mango Coconut, each providing unique flavor profiles. Floral options such as Lavender Honey and Hibiscus Chamomile add an elegant touch. For a hint of decadence, consider Chocolate Espresso or Peach Ginger. Tropical favorites like Pineapple Cilantro round out the selection. Explore these delightful recipes to elevate your Easter menu and discover even more enticing combinations.
Lemon Basil Granita
Lemon Basil Granita is a revitalizing Italian frozen dessert that perfectly combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil. This delightful treat is ideal for warm spring and summer gatherings, particularly during Easter celebrations, where it serves as a light palate cleanser or a sweet finish after a hearty meal.
The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, plus several hours for freezing, making it a simple yet elegant addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved to create a simple syrup. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Once the syrup has cooled, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow glass or metal baking dish. Place the dish in the freezer and let it freeze for about 1 hour.
- After an hour, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals. Return the dish to the freezer for another hour and repeat the process of scraping the mixture with a fork.
- Continue this process every hour for about 4-5 hours, or until the granita is fluffy and resembles snow.
- To serve, use a fork to fluff the granita one last time and scoop it into serving glasses. Garnish with additional basil leaves or lemon slices if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a twist, consider substituting some or all of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy granita.
- You can also experiment with other herbs, such as mint or thyme, for different flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a sweeter granita, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste.
- For a vibrant presentation, serve the granita in clear cups or bowls to showcase its beautiful texture and colors.
- Make sure to allow enough time for freezing, as the granita needs to be light and flaky – a series of scraping is essential to achieve the perfect consistency.
- The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
- Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
- 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...
Raspberry Rose Granita
Raspberry Rose Granita is a invigorating and elegant frozen dessert that combines the bright tartness of raspberries with a delicate floral note of rosewater. This delightful treat is perfect for warm spring and summer afternoons, making it an ideal addition to your Easter celebrations or any festive gathering.
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, plus 4 hours of freezing time, guaranteeing that while it's easy to make, it gives ample time to chill and set for a invigorating finish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons rosewater
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat while stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a blender, add the raspberries, cooled sugar syrup, rosewater, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a shallow baking dish to remove the seeds, pressing gently to extract all the liquid.
- Place the baking dish in the freezer and freeze for about 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that have formed. Return to the freezer and repeat this process every 30 minutes until the granita is fluffy and fully frozen (for about 4 hours total).
- Once ready to serve, fluff the granita one last time with a fork to create light and airy crystals. Scoop into bowls or glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Variations and Tips:
- For a creamier texture, you can blend in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream before freezing.
- Experiment with flavors by adding other fruits like strawberries or pomegranates along with the raspberries.
- Guarantee that your raspberries are ripe for the best flavor—choose deep red, firm berries without blemishes.
- If you want a stronger rose flavor, you can gradually increase the amount of rosewater to taste, but be careful as it can be quite potent.
- Use this granita as a palate cleanser between courses in a multi-course meal, or serve it alongside a light dessert for an elegant touch.
- Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
- Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
- Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...
Mango Coconut Granita
Mango Coconut Granita is a revitalizing frozen dessert that perfectly captures the essence of tropical flavors. This delightful treat is ideal for warm days and makes a wonderfully light and invigorating dessert for families, friends, or even festive gatherings.
With a preparation time of approximately 10 minutes, plus a few hours of freezing, you can whip up this easy granita that will surely impress your guests and keep everyone cool.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, coconut water, coconut milk, granulated sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar.
- Pour the mango mixture into a shallow dish or baking pan.
- Place the dish in the freezer and let it freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until the edges start to harden.
- After 1-2 hours, use a fork to scrape and stir the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that have formed. Return to the freezer.
- Continue to check and scrape the granita every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours until it's light and fluffy.
- Once the granita has reached your desired texture, serve it in chilled glasses or bowls. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- If you want a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the coconut water with additional coconut milk.
- For an extra tropical twist, consider adding a splash of rum or flavored liqueur to the mixture before freezing.
- Add a few slices of fresh mango on top for added flavor and a colorful presentation.
- To guarantee even freezing, use a shallow pan that allows for greater surface area.
- Mango Coconut Granita can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week; just be sure to fluff it with a fork before serving again.
- 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
- ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
- ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...
Lavender Honey Granita
Lavender Honey Granita is a revitalizing and unique frozen dessert that perfectly embodies the essence of spring with its floral notes and natural sweetness.
Ideal for those seeking a light, elegant finish to an Easter meal or any spring gathering, this granita is not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually stunning.
The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, plus freezing time, making it a simple yet sophisticated dessert that can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, honey, and dried lavender. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat and let the mixture steep for about 10 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds, and discard the solids.
- Stir in the lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the liquid into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.
- Freeze for about 1 hour, then use a fork to scrape the mixture, fluffing it as it begins to freeze.
- Return the dish to the freezer, scraping the granita every 30 minutes until it reaches a fluffy, slushy consistency, usually around 3-4 hours total freezing time.
- Serve in chilled bowls or glasses, garnished with a sprig of fresh lavender or a lemon twist, if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a different flavor twist, consider adding a splash of fresh fruit juice, such as orange or raspberry, to the mixture before freezing.
- Try using agave nectar or maple syrup as substitutes for honey for a vegan-friendly option.
- To enhance the floral aroma, experiment with other edible flowers such as chamomile or rose petals.
- Make certain you scrape the granita regularly as it freezes to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
- Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
- Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks
Strawberry Lime Granita
Strawberry Lime Granita is a revitalizing, icy dessert that's bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lime. Perfect for warm spring and summer days, this elegant treat is ideal for entertaining guests or serving at your Easter celebration.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes (plus freezing time), you can create a delightful, palate-cleansing dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the sliced strawberries, lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
- Once the sugar syrup has cooled, mix it with the strawberry mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture gently, breaking up any ice crystals that form. Continue this process for about 3-4 hours, or until the granita is fully frozen and fluffy.
- To serve, scoop the granita into chilled bowls or glasses, and garnish with additional lime zest or fresh strawberries if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Fruit Variations: Substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even mango for a different flavor profile.
- Sugar Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet granita, you can reduce the sugar amount according to your taste preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this granita with a splash of sparkling water for a delightful mocktail, or use it as a palate cleanser between courses at a dinner party.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the granita in an airtight container in the freezer. Scrape it once more with a fork before serving to restore its texture.
- 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
- Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
- Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use
Blood Orange Granita
Blood Orange Granita is a revitalizing, icy dessert perfect for celebrating spring and adding a burst of vibrant color to your Easter table. This light, fruity treat is not only visually striking but also packed with the unique, citrusy flavor of blood oranges, making it an ideal palate cleanser or a sweet finish to any meal.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a chilling time of several hours, this granita is relatively simple to make and is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 blood oranges
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by juicing the blood oranges. You should have approximately 1 cup of fresh blood orange juice.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Stir in the freshly squeezed blood orange juice and lemon juice into the sugar-water mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish or a freezer-safe container.
- Place in the freezer and allow the mixture to freeze for about 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, remove the dish from the freezer and use a fork to scrape the icy mixture, breaking it up into fine granules. Return to the freezer.
- Repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for the next 2-3 hours until the granita has a fluffy, crystalline texture.
- To serve, scoop the granita into chilled bowls or glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, you can infuse the sugar syrup with herbs like rosemary or thyme before adding the juice.
- Substitute blood orange juice with other citrus varieties such as regular orange, grapefruit, or tangerine for a different twist.
- For an adult version, consider adding a splash of prosecco or vodka to the granita before serving.
- Make sure to use a shallow dish for freezing; this increases the surface area and results in a better texture.
- 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
- 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
- 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...
Pistachio Mint Granita
Pistachio Mint Granita is a rejuvenating frozen dessert that combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the coolness of fresh mint. This delightful treat is perfect for warm spring and summer days, making it an excellent addition to your Easter celebrations or any outdoor gathering.
With a preparation time of about 15 minutes followed by freezing, you can easily create this simple yet elegant dessert that will impress your guests with its vibrant flavor and appealing color.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted pistachios, shelled
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the pistachios and fresh mint leaves. Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much flavor as possible. Discard the solids.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Pour the liquid into a shallow baking dish or a glass dish and place it in the freezer.
- After about 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and mix the granita. Return it to the freezer.
- Continue to scrape the granita every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the mixture is fully frozen and fluffy.
- Once ready to serve, scoop the granita into chilled glasses or bowls and enjoy!
Variations and Tips:
- For a brighter flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or zesty orange peel along with the lemon juice.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, consider folding in a tablespoon of whipped cream or coconut cream just before serving.
- Garnish with additional mint leaves or crushed pistachios for an elegant presentation.
- For a boozy variation, splash a little bit of gin or a mint liqueur into the mixture before freezing for an adult twist.
- Experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for different flavors alongside the mint.
Enjoy your homemade Pistachio Mint Granita as a delightful and rejuvenating end to your meal!
- Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
- Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
- Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...
Green Tea Granita
Green Tea Granita is a revitalizing, icy dessert that captures the delicate flavor of green tea, making it the perfect palate cleanser or a light treat for a warm day.
This sophisticated dessert is ideal for those who appreciate the subtlety of green tea, whether served after a meal or enjoyed on its own. With a preparation time of approximately 10 minutes and a freeze time of about 4 hours, this dish is simple to make and impressively elegant.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups brewed green tea, cooled
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooled green tea, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish (such as a glass baking dish) and place it in the freezer.
- After about 30 minutes, remove the dish from the freezer and use a fork to scrape and stir the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that may have formed.
- Return the dish to the freezer and repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the granita is fully frozen and has a fluffy texture.
- Once ready to serve, scoop the granita into bowls or dessert glasses and garnish with finely chopped mint leaves if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- For a sweeter version, add more sugar or a splash of honey to the mixture before freezing.
- Experiment by adding a splash of flavor, like vanilla extract or a squeeze of lime juice for a citrusy twist.
- Serve the granita with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of sorbet for added indulgence.
- For an adult version, consider adding a hint of sake or a shot of your favorite liqueur before freezing.
- Make certain that the granita is well-scraped and fluffed at intervals to achieve the desired texture; it should be light and airy, not solid ice. Enjoy your revitalizing treat!
- Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
- Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....
Passion Fruit Granita
Passion Fruit Granita is a revitalizing frozen dessert that embodies the tropical essence of its namesake fruit. This light and icy treat is perfect for warm Easter gatherings or any sunny day, making it an ideal choice for those looking to impress guests with something unique yet simple.
With a preparation time of about 15 minutes plus freezing time, this granita is not only easy to make but also provides an explosion of flavor with every spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe passion fruits
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
- Cut the passion fruits in half and scoop out the pulp into a mixing bowl. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds, if desired.
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the passion fruit juice and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish (like a 9×9-inch metal pan) and place it in the freezer.
- After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the top layer and break up any ice crystals. Return to the freezer and repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours, or until the granita is fluffy and fully frozen.
- Once ready, serve the granita in chilled bowls or glasses. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional passion fruit pulp for an extra touch.
Variations & Tips:
- For a more tropical flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut water or rum to the mixture before freezing.
- You can substitute passion fruit with other fruits like mango or pineapple for alternative flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar based on the tartness of the fruit.
- Make this a day ahead to guarantee you have adequate freezing time and it's ready to serve.
- To serve, scrape with a fork for a fluffy texture and use an ice cream scoop for easier serving from the freezing dish.
- 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
- Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
- Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
Blueberry Lavender Granita
Blueberry Lavender Granita is a revitalizing, icy treat that beautifully combines the sweet and tart flavors of blueberries with the delicate floral notes of lavender. This light dessert is ideal for warm spring days, making it perfect for Easter celebrations or any casual gathering.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a chilling time of about 4 hours, it's an easy yet sophisticated dessert that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, and dried lavender. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
2. Strain the lavender syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the lavender buds. Stir in the fresh blueberries, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
3. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the blueberry mixture until smooth. If desired, you can leave some blueberry bits for texture.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish and place it in the freezer. After about 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking it up into icy bits. Return it to the freezer.
5. Repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 3 more hours, or until the granita has formed fluffy ice crystals.
6. Once ready, scrape it one last time and serve immediately in chilled bowls or glasses. You can garnish with fresh blueberries or a sprig of lavender for an elegant touch.
Variations and Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider infusing the syrup with a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of lemon zest.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar based on how sweet your blueberries are.
- If you can't find dried culinary lavender, you can also use a lavender-infused syrup.
- This granita can be made a day in advance; just scrape and fluff before serving to keep it light and airy.
Enjoy this delightful Blueberry Lavender Granita as a revitalizing finish to your Easter feast or as a luxurious treat any time of the year!
Watermelon Mint Granita
Watermelon Mint Granita is a revitalizing, icy treat perfect for hot summer days or festive gatherings like Easter. This light and vibrant dessert is ideal for anyone looking to cool off, and it's especially delightful for those who enjoy fruity and minty flavors.
The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, plus a few hours for freezing, making it a convenient option for last-minute festivities.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small watermelon)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the watermelon)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
- Start by placing the diced watermelon in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and liquefied.
- Add the fresh mint leaves, granulated sugar, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to the blender. Blend again until the mint is finely chopped and fully incorporated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.
- Pour the watermelon mixture into a shallow glass baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Place the dish in the freezer and freeze for about 1 hour.
- After an hour, use a fork to scrape the surface of the granita, breaking it up into icy flakes. Return it to the freezer.
- Continue to freeze the granita, scraping it with a fork every 30 minutes until the mixture is fully frozen and fluffy, about 3-4 hours.
- Once ready, serve the granita in chilled cups or bowls, garnished with a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance.
Variations and Tips:
- For a more tropical flavor, try adding a splash of coconut water or lime zest.
- If you want a hint of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor.
- When serving, top with a scoop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream for added richness.
- Confirm the watermelon is ripe and sweet for the best flavor. Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size, which is typically a sign of juiciness.
- You can also make this granita with other fruits like cantaloupe or honeydew for different flavor profiles. Enjoy experimenting!
Chocolate Espresso Granita
Chocolate Espresso Granita is a revitalizing frozen dessert that offers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and robust coffee flavors.
Perfect for those warm days when you crave something sweet yet invigorating, this granita is suitable for coffee lovers and chocolate aficionados alike.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes, plus a few hours for freezing, it's an ideal treat to serve after a festive dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the brewed espresso, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then pour it into a shallow container.
- Place the container in the freezer and freeze for about 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture, fluffing it up as it begins to freeze.
- Return the container to the freezer and scrape the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 hours.
- Once the granita is fully frozen and fluffy, serve it in chilled bowls or glasses and garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder or add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist.
- Try substituting the espresso with flavored coffee, such as hazelnut or vanilla, to create different flavor profiles.
- You can also add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving for an unexpected yet delightful taste.
- To make it a more indulgent dessert, pair the granita with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream as a base.
Peach Ginger Granita
Peach Ginger Granita is a rejuvenating frozen dessert that wonderfully blends the sweetness of ripe peaches with a hint of zesty ginger. This wonderfully light and icy treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a delightful palate cleanser between courses at a dinner party.
With a preparation time of just about 10 minutes, followed by several hours of freezing, this granita is simple enough for novice cooks yet impressive for seasoned hosts.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches, grated ginger, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the cooled sugar syrup and blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Cover and place it in the freezer.
- After 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the surface of the granita, breaking up any ice crystals. Return to the freezer and repeat this scraping process every 30 minutes until the granita is fluffy and fully frozen, usually about 4-6 hours.
- To serve, scoop the granita into dessert cups or bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a slice of peach for an elegant touch.
Variations and Tips:
- Experiment with different fruits: Try swapping peaches for mangoes or kiwis for a unique flavor twist.
- For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or prosecco to the mixture before freezing.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet granita, reduce the amount of sugar according to your taste.
- To make blending easier, freeze chopped peaches for a short time before adding to the blender. This can create a creamier texture.
- Store leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month; just remember to scrape it again before serving to fluff it up!
Pineapple Cilantro Granita
Pineapple Cilantro Granita is a revitalizing frozen dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of ripe pineapple with the bright and herbaceous flavor of fresh cilantro.
This light and invigorating treat is perfect for hot spring and summer days, making it an ideal palate cleanser during festive meals or a delightful way to cool off during a picnic.
With a preparation time of just about 15 minutes (plus freezing time), this granita is an easy and impressive dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- Juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove from heat and let cool.
- In a blender, combine the pineapple, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the cooled sugar mixture into the blender with the pineapple mix and blend again until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Place the dish in the freezer and let it freeze for about 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, use a fork to scrape the surface of the granita, creating fluffy ice crystals. Return to the freezer and repeat every 30 minutes for an additional 2-3 hours, or until the granita is light and fluffy.
- Once fully frozen, serve the granita in chilled bowls or cups, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pineapple mix before blending.
- Substitute fresh pineapple with frozen pineapple for a quicker preparation.
- If you prefer a sweeter granita, adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
- Pair with crispy tortilla chips for a unique dessert combination.
- Store any leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week; just remember to scrape with a fork to fluff it up again before serving.
Hibiscus Chamomile Granita
Hibiscus Chamomile Granita is a revitalizing, icy dessert perfect for warm weather or as a light palate cleanser during festive gatherings. This vibrant, floral granita combines the tartness of hibiscus with the soothing qualities of chamomile, making it an ideal treat for tea lovers and those looking for a unique dessert option. The preparation time for this dish is about 10 minutes, plus several hours for freezing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 2 chamomile tea bags
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add the dried hibiscus flowers and chamomile tea bags. Let steep for about 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing the flowers and tea bags to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Stir in the sugar while the tea is still warm, ensuring it dissolves completely, then add the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.
- After about 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the ice that forms. Return to the freezer and repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3 to 4 hours, until the granita is fully frozen and fluffy.
- Once ready, serve the granita in chilled cups or bowls, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a more pronounced flavor, add a splash of orange or grapefruit juice to the mixture before freezing.
- Experiment with different herbal teas, such as lavender or lemon balm, to give a unique twist to your granita.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Keep any leftover granita covered in the freezer; re-scrape with a fork before serving to return it to a fluffy state!
