Limoncello Granita

Limoncello Granita Recipe – Simple and Refreshing

Introducing our latest culinary adventure: Limoncello Granita!

Cool, tangy treat that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.

With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be transported to the sunny shores of Italy with every bite.

Limoncello Granita

Recipe by Luca / Italian Cooking and LivingCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

5

hours 
Calories

670

kcal


Limoncello Granita is a refreshing Italian dessert featuring a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
This icy treat combines sugar, water, fresh lemon juice, and a famous Italian liqueur - Limoncello. Then, we'll freeze it until it forms a granular texture. Garnished with lemon zest for an extra zing, it's served in small cups or dishes straight from the freezer, making it a perfect choice for hot summer days or as a light and refreshing dessert option.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup lemon juice, fresh squeezed

  • 1/2 cup Limoncello liqueur

  • Lemon zest to garnish

Directions

  • Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan.
  • Heat the mixture without stirring until it boils.
  • Let it boil for about 5 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  • Remove from heat and let it cool.
  • Once cooled, add lemon juice and Limoncello, and stir.
  • Pour the mixture into a large, flat dish.
  • Place the dish in the freezer for 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes, remove the dish and stir the mixture thoroughly with a fork.
  • Repeat stirring every 30 minutes for 3 to 4 hours, breaking up any large ice crystals.
  • Fluff the granita with a fork and spoon into serving dishes.
  • Garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the mixture is thoroughly chilled before pouring it into the freezer-safe dish to achieve the desired granular texture.
  • Stir the granita regularly during the freezing process to break up any ice crystals and maintain a smooth consistency.
  • When garnishing with lemon zest, use a fine grater to create delicate strands, and be cautious not to include the bitter white pith beneath the zest.
  • For the optimal texture and flavor, serve the Limoncello Granita immediately after freezing. If storing leftovers, cover the serving dishes tightly with plastic wrap.

FAQ:

Can I substitute Limoncello liqueur with another type of alcohol?

While Limoncello adds a unique flavor to the granita, you can experiment with other citrus-flavored liqueurs, such as prosecco or even vodka, if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.

Can I adjust the sweetness level of the granita?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences. You can also add a bit more lemon juice for a tangier flavor.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh squeezed?

While freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for optimal flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.

Is it necessary to use a large, flat dish for freezing the granita?

Yes, using a large, flat dish ensures that the mixture freezes evenly and allows for easy stirring during the freezing process.

How can I prevent the granita from becoming too icy?

Make sure to stir the mixture thoroughly every 30 minutes during the freezing process to prevent large ice crystals from forming.

Can I garnish the Limoncello Granita with anything other than lemon zest?

Absolutely! You can garnish it with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for added flavor and visual appeal.

Where can I learn more about other types of drinks/cocktails in Italy?

I wrote detailed posts about popular Italian drinks and cocktails. I also listed Italy’s famous wine names. If that’s not enough, check out my post on Italian digestive drinks to get a wider picture.

Justine
Justine

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