20 Refreshing Sorbet Recipes for Summer

As the temperatures rise and summer sunshine abounds, there’s nothing quite like a cool and creamy sorbet to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth. But why settle for just any old flavor when you can create something truly unique and delicious? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 refreshing sorbet recipes that combine unexpected flavors in perfect harmony.

From classic strawberry basil to exotic passionfruit orange, these recipes are sure to inspire your inner chef and provide the perfect treat for hot summer days. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a new way to beat the heat, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering sorbet ideas.

Strawberry Basil Sorbet

Strawberry Basil Sorbet
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing strawberry basil sorbet, perfect for warm weather or a light summer treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries with the sugar until smooth.
2. Add the basil leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Stir in the simple syrup and lemon juice.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including chilling time)

Mango Lime Sorbet

Mango Lime Sorbet
This sorbet recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of lime, creating a perfect blend for hot summer days. With only 4 ingredients and no cooking required, this dessert is quick to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe mangos, pureed
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mango puree, lime juice, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the mixture and whisk until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the sorbet has finished churning, transfer it to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)

Raspberry Lemon Sorbet

Raspberry Lemon Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of lemon, perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses. With just a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, this recipe is a great way to get creative in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the raspberries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
4. Add the water to the bowl and stir until combined.
5. Fold in the raspberry puree into the sugar mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: None! This sorbet is ready in just a few hours with an ice cream maker or several hours in the freezer.

Watermelon Mint Sorbet

Watermelon Mint Sorbet
Beat the heat with this refreshing sorbet, perfect for hot summer days. This sweet and tangy treat combines the flavors of watermelon and mint for a unique and delicious dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, chopped mint, and lemon juice.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the watermelon puree and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in the simple syrup until dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including churning time)

Peach Ginger Sorbet

Peach Ginger Sorbet
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy sorbet, featuring juicy peaches and spicy ginger.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine peach puree (diced peaches and their juices), sugar, ginger, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Puree the mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids.
6. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time

Blueberry Lavender Sorbet

Blueberry Lavender Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of blueberries with the subtle elegance of lavender, perfect for a warm weather treat or a unique dessert option.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the blueberries with the sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds and any solids.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and lavender buds. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream is infused with the lavender flavor (about 5 minutes).
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it steep for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the lavender-infused cream through a fine-mesh sieve into the blueberry mixture. Whisk to combine.
6. Stir in the lemon juice.
7. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, plus freezing time.

Pineapple Coconut Sorbet

Pineapple Coconut Sorbet
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this sorbet combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine pineapple, coconut milk, sugar, honey, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including churning time)

Notes:

– If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the mixture in a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish. Stir every 30 minutes until frozen solid.
– For a more intense coconut flavor, use full-fat coconut milk instead of low-fat.

Blackberry Rosemary Sorbet

Blackberry Rosemary Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the natural sweetness of blackberries with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the blackberries and sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberry mixture, water, rosemary leaves, and lemon juice.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus churning time)

Kiwi Cucumber Sorbet

Kiwi Cucumber Sorbet
Beat the heat with this unique and revitalizing sorbet recipe that combines the sweetness of kiwi with the refreshing crunch of cucumber. Perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and pureed
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine kiwi puree, cucumber, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any excess pulp.
3. Add lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including preparation)

Cherry Vanilla Sorbet

Cherry Vanilla Sorbet
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Cherry Vanilla Sorbet combines the sweetness of cherries with the creaminess of vanilla.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine cherries, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and corn syrup.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time), plus freezing time

Passionfruit Orange Sorbet

Passionfruit Orange Sorbet
Elevate your dessert game with this vibrant sorbet, bursting with the sweetness of passionfruit and the tanginess of orange. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert for special occasions.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup freshly squeezed passionfruit juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine passionfruit and orange juices.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Stir in water.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus churning time)

Pear Cardamom Sorbet

Pear Cardamom Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of cardamom, creating a unique and delightful dessert perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pears, sugar, water, and ground cardamom.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes, plus chilling time

Grapefruit Thyme Sorbet

Grapefruit Thyme Sorbet
This sorbet combines the tangy sweetness of grapefruit with the earthy subtlety of thyme, creating a unique and revitalizing dessert perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups grapefruit juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme leaves
– Zest from 1 grapefruit

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine grapefruit juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in thyme leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard solids.
4. Whisk in grapefruit zest.
5. Chill mixture to 40°F (4°C).
6. Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None. Chilling time: At least 30 minutes. Freezing time: At least 2 hours.

Plum Cinnamon Sorbet

Plum Cinnamon Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of plums with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a warm weather treat or as a unique dessert option. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delicious plum cinnamon sorbet in no time!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen plums, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine plum puree, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved!)

Apricot Honey Sorbet

Apricot Honey Sorbet
This recipe combines the sweetness of apricots with the warmth of honey to create a deliciously light and fruity sorbet. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is easy to make and requires no cooking!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or dried apricots
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the apricots until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and apricot puree.
5. Chill the mixture to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: None! This sorbet requires no cooking, just blending and chilling.

Pomegranate Lime Sorbet

Pomegranate Lime Sorbet
This sorbet combines the sweetness of pomegranates with the zesty freshness of lime, perfect for a light and fruity dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh pomegranate arils
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the pomegranate arils and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the lime juice and water, blending until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on ice cream maker)

Banana Coconut Sorbet

Banana Coconut Sorbet
This Banana Coconut Sorbet is a light and creamy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of coconut. Perfect for hot summer days, this sorbet is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a sweet treat or a palate cleanser between courses.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the coconut cream, sugar, honey, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert!

Cantaloupe Mint Sorbet

Cantaloupe Mint Sorbet
A refreshing summer treat that combines the sweetness of cantaloupe with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for hot days and warm gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cubed cantaloupe
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the cantaloupe and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any pulp or fibers.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on ice cream maker)

Lychee Rose Sorbet

Lychee Rose Sorbet
This sweet and tangy sorbet is a unique blend of lychee, rose, and citrus flavors that will transport you to the exotic gardens of Asia. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light dessert option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup lychees, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup rose syrup (or rosewater)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the lychees and sugar until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the lychee mixture, water, rose syrup (or rosewater), and lime juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold (about 2 hours).
7. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Once set, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Green Apple Ginger Sorbet

Green Apple Ginger Sorbet
This sorbet combines the sweetness of green apples with the spicy warmth of ginger, creating a unique and refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups green apple puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the grated ginger and lemon juice.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None

Summary

Beat the summer heat with these refreshing sorbet recipes! From fruity flavors like Strawberry Basil and Mango Lime, to herbaceous twists like Watermelon Mint and Blackberry Rosemary, there’s something for everyone. Try making unique flavor combinations like Peach Ginger or Kiwi Cucumber for a taste adventure. And for those looking for a sweet treat, classic flavors like Cherry Vanilla and Banana Coconut are sure to please. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored of the same old sorbet again!

Leave a Comment