Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita

When summer heat calls for something cool, refreshing, and just a little bit boozy, this Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita delivers all the tropical vibes you need. Imagine the classic daiquiri cocktail transformed into a fluffy, icy dessert that melts on your tongue with every spoonful. Sweet strawberries meet zesty lime and a splash of white rum in this frozen treat that's as elegant as it is easy to make. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to elevate your dessert game, these vibrant dessert cups bring restaurant-quality sophistication to your home kitchen.

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The beauty of granita lies in its rustic, crystalline texture. Unlike smooth sorbets or gelatos, this Italian-inspired frozen dessert creates delicate ice flakes that capture the pure essence of fresh strawberries and lime. The manual scraping process may seem labor-intensive, but it's actually quite meditative—and the fluffy, snow-like result is absolutely worth those few minutes of work every half hour. The touch of rum not only adds complexity but also keeps the texture from freezing rock-solid, ensuring each scoop is perfectly scoopable.

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: Freeze Initial Layer

Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish or metal pan, spreading it in an even layer. Freeze for 1 hour.

Step 4: First Scrape

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

Step 5: Continue Freezing and 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

For the best texture, use a shallow metal pan rather than a deep container—the increased surface area allows for faster, more even freezing. Set a timer for your scraping intervals so you don't forget; consistent scraping every 30 minutes is key to achieving that light, fluffy granita texture. If your mixture freezes too solid between scrapings, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before working with your fork. A blender creates the smoothest purée, but a food processor works in a pinch. Always taste your strawberry mixture before freezing and adjust the sugar based on how sweet your berries are—riper strawberries need less added sweetener.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what's in season. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and add 2 more tablespoons of lime juice or sparkling water for balance. You can swap strawberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry blend for different flavor profiles. For a more intense lime flavor, increase the zest to 2 limes. Want to make it sweeter? Add an extra 2 tablespoons of sugar. If you prefer a stronger cocktail flavor, increase the rum to 1/3 cup, but note this will make the mixture freeze slightly softer. Fresh mint can also be blended directly into the mixture for a mojito-inspired twist.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your granita in chilled coupe glasses, martini glasses, or rustic mason jars for different presentation styles. Garnish generously with fresh mint sprigs, lime wedges, and strawberry slices to make each serving Instagram-worthy. For an adult party, pair with a crisp Prosecco or lime-infused sparkling water served alongside in champagne flutes. The granita also makes a stunning palate cleanser between courses at a dinner party. If serving at a summer barbecue, consider setting up a granita bar where guests can customize their cups with various garnishes and toppings. For extra indulgence, add a small dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top just before serving.

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This Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita is proof that impressive desserts don't have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you'll create a sophisticated frozen treat that tastes like summer in a glass. The combination of sweet berries, tart lime, and a whisper of rum creates layers of flavor that keep you coming back for another spoonful. Whether you're cooling down on a hot afternoon or ending a dinner party on a high note, this granita delivers refreshment and elegance in equal measure. So grab your blender, set your timer, and get ready to scrape your way to frozen dessert perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I achieve the perfect fluffy texture?

Freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and scrape with a fork every 30 minutes to break ice crystals and create a light granita texture.

→ Can I make it non-alcoholic?

Yes, simply omit the rum and increase lime juice or add sparkling water for added zest without alcohol.

→ What garnishes work best with this dish?

Fresh mint leaves, extra strawberry slices, and lime wedges complement the flavors beautifully.

→ Can other berries be used instead of strawberries?

Raspberries or mixed berry blends can be substituted, adjusting sugar to balance sweetness.

→ What equipment is needed to prepare this dessert?

A blender, citrus zester, shallow baking dish, fork, and serving cups are essential tools for preparation.