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Instructions:
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Prepare the simple syrup:
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In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
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Juice and zest the lemons:
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While the syrup is cooling, zest the lemons, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith. Then, juice the lemons to get fresh lemon juice—this is where the bright flavor comes from!
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Combine the ingredients:
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In a bowl, mix the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine. If you’re using Limoncello or another lemon liqueur, add it in at this point.
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Freeze the sorbet:
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There are two ways to freeze your lemon sorbet:
Option 1: Ice Cream Maker (Best Results)
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Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
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Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer the sorbet to a container and freeze for another 2-3 hours to firm up.
Option 2: No Ice Cream Maker (Simple & Easy)
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Pour the lemon mixture into a shallow dish (like a baking dish) and place it in the freezer.
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Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals. Continue this process for about 2-3 hours until the sorbet is smooth and fully frozen.
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Serve:
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Scoop the frozen sorbet into bowls or glasses. Garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprig of mint for a fresh touch.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, tangy sweetness of this Italian-inspired treat!
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Tips:
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Sweetness adjustment: You can taste the mixture before freezing it and add more sugar if you like your sorbet on the sweeter side. If it’s too sweet, add a little more lemon juice for extra tartness.
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Smooth texture: If you’re making the sorbet without an ice cream maker, scraping the mixture every 30 minutes helps prevent ice crystals from forming, ensuring a smoother texture.
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Flavor variations: You can also add other citrus like orange or lime to mix up the flavor, or even infuse the syrup with herbs like mint for a twist.
Why You’ll Love It:
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Super refreshing: The bright citrus flavor is perfect for summer, and it’s naturally dairy-free, so it’s a great dessert for any dietary restrictions.
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Simple ingredients: Only a few ingredients are needed to make this, and you don’t even need an ice cream maker if you don’t have one!
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Customizable: Add liqueurs or herbs for a unique twist, or make it with other fruits like berries or peaches!
Lemon sorbet is such a classic dessert that’s always a hit, especially when it’s homemade. Let me know if you need any adjustments or want to try a different variation!
