Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita

There's something magical about frozen desserts on a hot summer day, and this Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita takes that magic to a whole new level. Imagine the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries meeting the bright, zesty punch of lime, all enhanced with a splash of white rum for that classic daiquiri flair. Unlike traditional ice cream or sorbet, granita offers a uniquely fluffy, icy texture that melts on your tongue, delivering waves of refreshing flavor with every spoonful. This elegant dessert is surprisingly simple to make—no ice cream maker required—just a blender, a shallow pan, and a bit of patience as you scrape and fluff the mixture into crystalline perfection. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a poolside gathering, or simply craving a sophisticated frozen treat, these dessert cups bring restaurant-quality elegance right to your home.

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The beauty of granita lies in its simplicity and versatility. Originating from Sicily, this traditional Italian frozen dessert has been adapted countless ways around the world. By combining the tropical vibes of a daiquiri with the rustic charm of granita, you get a dessert that's both playful and refined. The key to perfect granita is all in the technique: scraping the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes creates those signature ice crystals that give granita its distinctive texture—light, airy, and never rock-solid. The white rum adds depth and a subtle warmth that balances the tartness of the lime, while the strawberries provide natural sweetness and gorgeous color. Served in elegant cups with fresh garnishes, this dessert transforms an ordinary evening into a special occasion.

Ingredients

• Fruit Base: 3 cups (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Zest of 1 lime; 1/3 cup (80 ml) fresh lime juice (about 2–3 limes)
• Sweetener: 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• Spirits: 1/4 cup (60 ml) white rum
• Garnish (optional): Fresh mint leaves; Extra strawberry slices; Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Base

In a blender, combine strawberries, lime zest, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until completely smooth.

Step 2: Add the Rum

Add white rum to the strawberry mixture and blend briefly to combine.

Step 3: Pour and Freeze

Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish or metal pan, spreading it in an even layer.

Step 4: Initial Freeze

Freeze for 1 hour. After 1 hour, use a fork to scrape and break up any ice crystals forming around the edges.

Step 5: Continue Scraping

Return to the freezer, scraping with a fork every 30 minutes for about 3 more hours, until a fluffy, icy texture is achieved.

Step 6: Serve

Scoop the granita into dessert cups. Garnish each serving with mint, strawberry slices, or lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The secret to achieving that perfect fluffy granita texture is consistent scraping. Set a timer every 30 minutes to remind yourself—this rhythmic process breaks up large ice crystals and incorporates air, creating that signature light, snow-like consistency. Use a metal pan if possible, as metal conducts cold more efficiently than glass, resulting in faster, more even freezing. When scraping, use a sturdy fork and work from the edges toward the center, where ice forms first. If you forget to scrape and the mixture freezes solid, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then use a fork to break it up into smaller pieces before continuing the scraping process. For the best flavor, use ripe, sweet strawberries at peak season—the quality of your fruit directly impacts the final taste.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and add 2 more tablespoons lime juice or sparkling water for brightness. Adjust sugar to taste based on strawberry sweetness—taste the mixture before freezing and add more sugar if needed. Try swapping strawberries with raspberries or a mixed berry blend for different flavor profiles. You can also experiment with different spirits: try silver tequila for a margarita-style granita, or vodka for a cleaner taste. For a more complex flavor, add a tablespoon of elderflower liqueur or a pinch of black pepper. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the sugar to 2/3 cup, or use honey or agave nectar instead (though this may slightly affect the texture).

Serviervorschläge

Presentation elevates this simple dessert into something truly special. Serve in clear glass cups or martini glasses to showcase the beautiful pink color and crystalline texture. Garnish generously with fresh mint leaves, strawberry slices, and lime wedges for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy presentation. For an adult gathering, pair with a crisp Prosecco or lime-infused sparkling water served alongside. You can also serve the granita as a palate cleanser between courses at a dinner party, or as a light ending to a heavy meal. For extra indulgence, top with a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of cream just before serving. The granita is best enjoyed immediately after scooping, but you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance—just give it a quick scrape with a fork before serving to refresh the texture.

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This Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita is more than just a dessert—it's an experience that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. The combination of fresh fruit, bright citrus, and a hint of rum creates a sophisticated treat that's both refreshing and memorable. Whether you're cooling down after a day in the sun, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something delightful, these elegant dessert cups deliver on every level. With minimal ingredients, simple techniques, and stunning results, this recipe proves that the best things in life don't have to be complicated. So grab your blender, pick up some fresh strawberries, and get ready to create a frozen masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Cheers to delicious simplicity and frozen perfection!

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I achieve the perfect granita texture?

Scraping the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes during freezing breaks ice crystals and creates the fluffy, grainy texture typical of granitas.

→ Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes, simply omit the rum and add extra lime juice or sparkling water for a bright, refreshing flavor without the boozy kick.

→ What types of berries work well in this granita?

While strawberries are classic, raspberries or mixed berries can be swapped in for varied flavor and color.

→ How should I serve this frozen treat?

Scoop the granita into chilled dessert cups and garnish with fresh mint, strawberry slices, or lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.

→ Is it possible to adjust the sweetness?

Adjust the sugar amount based on the natural sweetness of your strawberries to suit personal taste preferences.