Fresh Strawberry Sorbet

Name: Fresh Strawberry Sorbet
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup water

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I love making fresh strawberry sorbet during the summer when strawberries are at their peak ripeness. This recipe is not only simple but also captures the essence of summer in every bite. The combination of sweet strawberries with a hint of lemon creates a refreshing treat that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Plus, it’s dairy-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding lactose. The vibrant color and flavor never fail to impress family and friends at gatherings!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:21:27.979Z

During one particularly hot July afternoon, I decided to whip up a batch of fresh strawberry sorbet using the juiciest, ripest strawberries from the local farmer's market. The process was simple: blend the berries with a touch of sugar and lemon juice, then let it freeze. The result was a sorbet that was not only refreshing but bursting with flavor. It reminded me of my childhood summers spent picking strawberries, and I couldn't resist sharing it with my family.

This recipe is so versatile. You can easily tweak it by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or mint for an exciting twist. The key is to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. I recommend letting the sorbet sit for a few minutes outside the freezer before serving to soften it slightly for easy scooping!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and refreshing strawberry flavor
Dairy-free and vegan-friendly
Simple ingredients that yield impressive results

Understanding Strawberry Sorbet

Creating the perfect fresh strawberry sorbet hinges on selecting the ripest strawberries possible. When in season, strawberries bursting with sweet flavor will yield a sorbet that captures the essence of summer. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries, but remember to adjust the sugar to account for their natural sweetness.

The balance between sweetness and acidity is crucial for achieving the right flavor profile. Lemon juice not only enhances the strawberry flavor but also helps to prevent the sorbet from becoming overly icy. If you prefer a different twist, you could experiment with lime juice, which can add an exciting zest a little more depth.

Churning and Freezing Tips

Using an ice cream maker is the most efficient way to churn your sorbet. While they vary, most machines require about 20-30 minutes to achieve a soft-serve consistency. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, swirling your mixture in a shallow dish allows you to manually aerate it. Stir it briskly every 30 minutes for the first couple of hours to break up ice crystals, ensuring a smoother texture in the end.

Patience is vital during the freezing process. The texture of your sorbet will depend on both the initial chill and final freeze. Keep an eye on it and remember that once it reaches a firm consistency, letting it sit out for a few minutes before serving will make it easier to scoop. If it becomes rock hard, just give it a quick stir to soften it up.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Fresh Strawberry Sorbet:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup water

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sorbet:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a blender or food processor, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Blend until smooth, ensuring that no chunks remain.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the strawberry mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to chill.

Freeze the Sorbet

Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. If you don't have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.

Final Freezing

If you're using a shallow dish, stir the mixture every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours, until fully frozen and scoopable.

Serve

Once the sorbet is ready, let it sit for a few minutes to soften before scooping into bowls and enjoying!

Savor the freshness of your homemade sorbet!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, try incorporating a splash of vanilla extract or a few fresh mint leaves into the blending process.

Storing Your Sorbet

Storing your strawberry sorbet correctly will allow you to enjoy it for weeks. Transfer the sorbet to an airtight container, making sure to press it down to eliminate any air pockets. For added protection against freezer burn, you can place a piece of wax paper directly on the surface of the sorbet before sealing the container. It should stay fresh in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks, although I find it rarely lasts that long!

When you're ready to serve it after storage, check its texture first. If it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften. If you have trouble scooping the sorbet after that, giving it a quick stir can help break up any icy clumps.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh strawberry sorbet makes a delightful palette cleanser between courses or a light dessert on its own. For a fancy touch, consider serving it in a chilled glass with fresh mint leaves, or topping it with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an unexpected flavor twist. I love to pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a contrast in texture and flavor.

For those with dietary restrictions, this sorbet is fantastic on its own or served alongside dairy-free baked goods, such as almond or coconut cookies. You can also blend in chopped fresh strawberries or even a splash of rose water during the churning process for a floral note that elevates the sorbet experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them slightly before blending.

→ How long does the sorbet last?

Stored in an airtight container, the sorbet can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use honey or agave syrup, but adjust the quantity to taste as they are sweeter.

→ Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! Just blend the mixture and freeze it in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until frozen solid.