If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and naturally sweet frozen dessert, Raspberry Granita is the perfect choice. Originating from Sicily, this Italian treat is made with just fruit, sugar, and water, creating a delicious icy texture that’s lighter than ice cream but bursting with flavor.
This recipe makes a wonderful summer dessert, a palate cleanser between courses, or even a fun frozen snack for kids. Best of all, it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 2 cups (250g) fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Freezing time: 4–5 hours
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Raspberry Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat gently until sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat.
- Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Blend the Raspberries
- Place raspberries and lemon juice in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds (optional for a smoother texture).
Step 3: Combine and Freeze
- Mix the raspberry purée with the cooled sugar syrup.
- Pour mixture into a shallow dish or baking pan.
Step 4: Scrape to Form Crystals
- Place in the freezer and after 1 hour, scrape the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals.
- Repeat scraping every 30–45 minutes for 4–5 hours until fluffy and icy in texture.
Step 5: Serve
- Fluff the granita with a fork and scoop into chilled glasses.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra raspberries before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in champagne flutes for an elegant dinner-party dessert.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut cream for extra indulgence.
- Layer with fresh fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Enjoy as a refreshing palate cleanser between courses.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 1 gram |
| Total Fat | 0 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 0 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Sugars | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 2 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
- Low in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free dessert.
- Vegan and dairy-free, suitable for most dietary preferences.
Tips for Best Results
- For a less sweet version, reduce sugar to 1/3 cup.
- Use frozen raspberries for a quicker preparation (thaw slightly before blending).
- Add a splash of rosé wine or prosecco for an adult twist.
- Store leftovers in the freezer, but re-scrape with a fork before serving for the best texture.
This Raspberry Granita is a simple, refreshing, and elegant dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness of fruit. With its icy texture and vibrant color, it’s perfect for hot summer days, fancy dinner parties, or anytime you want a light and fruity treat.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with creamy toppings, this Italian-inspired recipe is sure to become a favorite in your frozen dessert collection.