Cool and Refreshing: Watermelon Sherbet Recipe
Nothing says summer like the sweet, juicy taste of watermelon. And what better way to enjoy this refreshing fruit than in the form of a creamy, dreamy watermelon sherbet? This homemade treat is bursting with flavor and is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering or as a cool treat on a hot day. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to whip up a batch of delicious watermelon sherbet, including ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Seedless watermelon
- 3 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 dash Salt
- 1 cup White sugar
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 envelope Unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup Water
Instructions:
- Prepare Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into chunks, removing any seeds if necessary. Place the watermelon chunks in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Strain Mixture: Pour the blended watermelon through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp and seeds, leaving behind just the juice. Discard the pulp and seeds.
- Make Gelatin Mixture: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of water. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to soften.
- Heat Gelatin: Transfer the softened gelatin mixture to a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strained watermelon juice, lemon juice, salt, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the heavy cream and mix until well combined.
- Add Gelatin Mixture: Pour the cooled gelatin mixture into the watermelon mixture and stir until incorporated.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Churn Sherbet: Once chilled, transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft, creamy consistency.
- Freeze: Transfer the churned sherbet to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 2-4 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Scoop the watermelon sherbet into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Ripe Watermelon: For the best flavor, choose a ripe, sweet watermelon. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, hollow sound when tapped.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences. If your watermelon is very sweet, you may need less sugar.
- Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can skip straining the watermelon juice. However, straining helps remove any unwanted pulp and seeds for a smoother sherbet.
- Add-Ins: Get creative with your watermelon sherbet by adding in other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or even chunks of fresh watermelon for added texture and flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some simple modifications to make this recipe keto-friendly:
- Sugar Substitute: Replace the white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the amount to taste as sweeteners vary in sweetness.
- Cream Alternative: Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option with fewer carbs.
- Fruit Choices: Stick to low-carb fruits like berries or limit the amount of watermelon used to reduce the carb content.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker? A: Yes, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Q: How long will the watermelon sherbet keep in the freezer? A: Stored in an airtight container, the sherbet will keep for up to 2 weeks in the freezer. Be sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I use frozen watermelon instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen watermelon chunks instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw them before blending to ensure a smooth texture.
Q: Is watermelon sherbet dairy-free? A: While this recipe calls for heavy cream, you can easily make it dairy-free by using a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk.
With its vibrant color and refreshing taste, watermelon sherbet is the perfect summertime treat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a cool and refreshing dessert, this homemade sherbet is sure to impress. By following this easy recipe and making a few simple modifications, you can enjoy this delicious frozen treat while staying true to your dietary preferences. So grab a ripe watermelon, whip up a batch of sherbet, and savor every spoonful of this delightful summer dessert!