Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita

When summer heat calls for something cool, elegant, and delightfully boozy, this Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita is the answer. Imagine the classic tropical daiquiri transformed into a stunning frozen dessert—vibrant ruby-red strawberries meet zesty lime and a splash of white rum, all frozen into delicate, icy crystals that melt on your tongue. It's sophisticated enough for dinner parties yet simple enough to whip up on a whim. Best of all, the granita's rustic, hand-scraped texture gives it an artisanal charm that pre-made frozen desserts simply can't match.

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The magic of granita lies in its texture. Unlike smooth sorbets or creamy ice creams, granita is all about those delicate, flaky ice crystals that you create by scraping the mixture as it freezes. The process is meditative and rewarding—every 30 minutes, you visit the freezer and rake through the icy slush with a fork, gradually building up those coveted snow-like crystals. The result is a dessert that feels light and airy, with bursts of intense strawberry-lime flavor in every spoonful. The white rum adds just enough complexity without overwhelming the fresh fruit, making this a grown-up treat perfect for warm-weather entertaining.

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

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 baking dish—metal conducts cold better than glass, helping the granita freeze more evenly. When scraping, work from the edges toward the center, as ice crystals form fastest at the perimeter. If you miss a scraping session and the mixture freezes solid, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then break it up with a fork. The granita can be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it covered in the freezer and scrape again before serving to refresh the texture. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and add 2 more tablespoons lime juice or sparkling water.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Adjust sugar to taste based on strawberry sweetness—riper berries may need less sugar. Try swapping strawberries with raspberries or a mixed berry blend for different flavor profiles. For a tropical twist, replace half the strawberries with fresh mango or pineapple. You can also experiment with different spirits: try light rum for a more neutral taste, or add a splash of triple sec for extra citrus depth. For a minty version, muddle fresh mint leaves with the sugar before blending.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this granita in chilled martini glasses, coupe glasses, or small dessert cups for an elegant presentation. Pair with a crisp Prosecco or lime-infused sparkling water for a complete refreshment experience. It makes an ideal palate cleanser between courses at dinner parties, or a light finish after grilled seafood or spicy dishes. For a fun twist, layer the granita with whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for a parfait-style dessert. Garnish generously with fresh mint sprigs, lime wheels, and sliced strawberries to enhance the visual appeal.

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This Strawberry Lime Daiquiri Granita proves that the best desserts don't require complex techniques or expensive equipment—just quality ingredients, a bit of patience, and the willingness to embrace simplicity. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something special, this frozen delight delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. So gather your strawberries, chill your glasses, and get ready to scrape your way to frozen perfection. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve the fluffy texture of the granita?

Freeze the mixture for 1 hour, then scrape ice crystals with a fork every 30 minutes for about 3 hours to create a light, flaky texture.

→ Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, simply omit the rum and add extra lime juice or sparkling water to maintain flavor and balance.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

Try raspberries or a mixed berry blend for a different fruity twist while preserving the icy texture.

→ How should I serve the granita for best presentation?

Serve in small cups or glasses garnished with fresh mint leaves, strawberry slices, or lime wedges for a vibrant look.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free and vegetarian diets?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.