Description
This refreshing Lemon Sorbet recipe combines freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and a homemade simple syrup to create a bright and tangy frozen dessert. Perfect for warm days, this sorbet is blended for a smooth texture and freezes into a light, icy treat that can be garnished with fresh mint for an added touch of aroma and color.
Ingredients
Simple Syrup
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup water
Lemon Sorbet
- 1 ¼ cups lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- Mint leaves (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Simmer the mixture for 1-2 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. This will yield about 1 ¼ cups of simple syrup.
- Combine Sorbet Ingredients: Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice into a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan. Add the cooled simple syrup and lemon zest. Whisk all ingredients together until fully combined.
- Initial Freezing: Place the loaf pan mixture into the freezer and let it freeze for 3-4 hours, or until it becomes mostly firm but not completely solid.
- Blend the Sorbet: Transfer the partially frozen mixture to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend for 1-2 minutes until the texture is smooth. Be careful not to over-blend to avoid warming up the mixture.
- Final Freeze: Pour the blended sorbet back into the loaf pan and freeze for an additional 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Serve: Before serving, let the sorbet sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes to soften slightly. Serve with a sprig of fresh mint if desired for an optional garnish.
Notes
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best natural flavor.
- The simple syrup must be fully cooled before mixing with lemon juice to ensure proper freezing.
- Blending the sorbet mid-freezing step improves texture by breaking up ice crystals.
- Letting sorbet soften at room temperature for a few minutes before serving ensures easier scooping.
- Mint garnish adds a refreshing aroma but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
