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–+ servings
Three scoops of sorbet topped with a sprig of basil and lemon slice.

Lemon Basil Sorbet Recipe

Melissa
This easy-to-make recipe combines two of the most refreshing ingredients, lemons and basil, to make a delicious frozen dessert that will become a go-to recipe.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling/Freezing Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 -6 servings
Calories 209 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fresh basil (loosely packed)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (zest of about 2 lemons)
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)

Instructions
 

  • ​​Important pre-step: make sure that your ice cream machine’s canister has been frozen for at least 12-24 hours prior to churning. It’s completely frozen when you shake the canister and there is no sound of sloshing of liquid.
  • Make a simple syrup by dissolving the sugar in water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove it from heat and add the basil leaves. Allow the syrup to completely cool and then remove the basil leaves.
  • Add the lemon zest and juice to the simple syrup.
  • Assemble your ice cream machine and add the lemon basil syrup to the frozen canister. Churn according to your ice cream maker’s instructions. Typically, it takes about 25-30 minutes of churning and the result will have the consistency of a thick smoothie.
  • Pack the sorbet into a freezer-safe container and press a piece of parchment paper to the sorbet’s surface. Seal tight with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. Freeze for at least 4 hours.
  • When ready to serve, allow the sorbet to sit at room temp for a few minutes to make scooping easier.

Notes

Storage Tips
  • Use a freezer-safe container such as a loaf pan or reusable ice cream container to pack your sorbet in.
  • If your container has a non-stick coating, line the container with parchment paper prior to adding your sorbet to avoid scratching the coating.
  • Place your container in your freezer as far away from the freezer door as possible to prevent ice crystals or freezer burn.
  • Consume within two weeks for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 0.4gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.03gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.04gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 86mgFiber: 1gSugar: 52gVitamin A: 322IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 0.3mg
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