Citrus Granita Recipe

Photo: Milisa Armstrong

As the temperatures heat up, I'm much more reluctant to turn on the oven to bake dessert. Icy treats like granita are not only a better option for keeping your kitchen cool, but also a perfect ending to summer meals.

Granita is generally made from sugar, water, and your favorite flavorings. Here I've made a simple citrus granita. I used my favorite orange juice from the market, along with a couple of fresh lemons and a lime. I use lots of zest which adds an extra citrus kick that I love. And instead of making a simple syrup with sugar and water, I used honey to sweeten this dessert. The process was easy and the results were delicious.

Photo: Milisa Armstrong

You simply mix the ingredients in a shallow dish and place it in the freezer for about 3 to 4 hours. Every thirty minutes, you scrape the mixture with a fork, creating ice crystals.

It's delicious on its own, but I layered this one with vanilla ice cream for a sophisticated creamsicle. It's the ultimate combination for a hot summer day.

Granita is easy to tailor to your favorite flavors. I've made caramel macchiato, strawberry, and watermelon (one of my favorites). Get creative!

Citrus Granita

2 1/2 cups orange juice
2 fresh lemons, zest and juice
1 fresh lime, zest and juice
1/3 cup honey vanilla ice cream for serving (optional) ​

Add all ingredients to a shallow, freezer safe dish. Whisk together until well combined. Place in the freezer. Grating with a fork every 30 minutes until mixture has formed entirely into ice crystals and is no longer liquid—about 3 to 4 hours.

Serve immediately in small bowls or layer in dessert glasses with vanilla ice cream. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.

Photo: Milisa Armstrong

​This is the perfect dessert for summer barbecues and back yard parties. A light and refreshing dessert with just a few ingredients comes together so easily that the kids can help with this one!