Cranberry sorbet is a vibrant and tangy dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season or any time you’re craving something refreshing and slightly tart. The bright red color and bold flavor of cranberries make this sorbet not only delicious but also visually stunning. This easy-to-make sorbet is a great way to cleanse the palate or to serve as a light, fruity finish to a meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional, for smoother texture)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
Instructions
1. Cook the Cranberries:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and softened.
2. Blend and Strain:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Transfer the cranberry mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine sieve into a large bowl to remove any remaining skins or seeds, ensuring a smooth texture.
3. Add Orange Juice and Zest:
- Stir the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest (if using), and corn syrup (if using) into the strained cranberry mixture. Mix well to combine.
- If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
4. Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sorbet base for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This step is important for achieving a smooth texture during churning.
5. Churn the Sorbet:
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20-25 minutes, or until the sorbet has thickened to a soft-serve consistency.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish, place it in the freezer, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency (this process may take several hours).
6. Freeze the Sorbet:
- Transfer the churned sorbet into an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours to firm up before serving.
7. Serve:
- Scoop the cranberry sorbet into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. Garnish with a sprig of mint, fresh cranberries, or a twist of orange peel for an elegant touch.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Sorbet
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well in this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking.
- Adjust Sweetness: Cranberries are naturally tart, so taste the mixture before freezing and adjust the sugar if needed to suit your preference.
- Strain Well: Straining the blended cranberry mixture ensures a smooth sorbet without any gritty texture from cranberry skins.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry sorbet is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a light, refreshing treat after a rich meal, or alongside a slice of pie or cake for a delightful contrast. It’s also perfect for holiday gatherings, where its vibrant color and tart flavor will complement seasonal dishes beautifully.
Conclusion
Cranberry sorbet is a deliciously tart and refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress. With its bold flavor and vibrant color, it’s a wonderful addition to any dessert table, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re serving it as a palate cleanser or as a standalone treat, this cranberry sorbet is sure to delight your taste buds.