As the mercury rises and the sun graces us with longer days, nothing feels quite as indulgently refreshing as a bowl of homemade ice cream. Picture this: the creamy coolness of fresh mint ice cream melds perfectly with the icy, vibrant notes of salted watermelon granita. This delightful combo isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also an eye-catching addition to any summer gathering or a special way to unwind after a busy day.
I initially whipped up this recipe as an antidote to the heat on a sunny afternoon, and I found myself instantly transported to a dreamy summer paradise with each spoonful. The best part? This dessert can stand alone or shine together, promising to impress guests whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting an elegant dinner. Plus, when topped with a splash of sparkling rosé, it transforms into a refreshing cocktail that elevates any occasion. Ready to create the ultimate summer delight? Let’s dive into making this heavenly duo of Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita!
Why Choose Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita?
Irresistible, this refreshing dessert captures the essence of summer with its vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
Crowd-Pleasing enough to be the star of any gathering, it’s a surefire way to impress friends and family.
Simple Preparation means you can create this gourmet treat without hours in the kitchen—perfect for busy afternoons!
Versatile Serving Options allow you to enjoy each component solo or together, offering delightful combinations that suit every palate.
Eye-Catching Presentation transforms any bowl into a beautiful showcase, making it a delightful focal point at your table.
Dive into this delicious duo and experience a summer treat like no other!
Fresh Mint Ice Cream Ingredients
Enhance your summer with this delightful treat!
For the Ice Cream Base
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess to the ice cream base; substitute with almond milk for a non-dairy version.
- Mint Leaves – Provide fresh flavor; use spearmint or garden mint for the best taste.
- Sugar – Sweetens both the ice cream and granita; can substitute with agave syrup or honey for a less refined option.
- Heavy Cream – Contributes to the ice cream’s rich texture; light cream can be used for a lighter version, though the texture may vary.
- Egg Yolks – Enrich the ice cream and create a custard base; for a dairy-free option, omit or use a vegan egg substitute.
- Pinch of Salt – Enhances the flavor of the ice cream and balances sweetness; sea salt or kosher salt works well.
For the Salted Watermelon Granita
- Watermelon – Primary ingredient for granita; use seedless for convenience.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a bright acidity to the granita; freshly squeezed is preferred.
- Flaked Sea Salt – Used as a finishing touch to enhance the watermelon granita flavor.
With these key ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating the dazzling Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita that will impress anyone who’s lucky enough to enjoy it!
How to Make Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita
-
Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, combine whole milk, sugar, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Warm this mixture over medium heat, stirring until it begins to bubble, then remove it from heat.
-
Steep the Mint: Add fresh mint leaves to the warm milk mixture and let it steep for 1-2 hours. This allows the mint flavor to infuse deliciously into the base.
-
Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a bit of the warm mint mixture while whisking. Then pour this yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the mint mixture. Heat gently, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
-
Strain and Chill: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the mint leaves. Stir in the remaining heavy cream and chill the mixture completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
-
Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy, usually about 20-30 minutes.
-
Make the Granita: In a food processor, puree watermelon, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Transfer this mixture to a shallow, freezer-proof dish. Freeze for about 3-4 hours, scraping with a fork every 30 minutes until it’s fluffy and fully frozen.
-
Serve Together: To serve, layer scoops of the fresh mint ice cream with the salted watermelon granita in elegant bowls or glasses, creating a visually stunning dessert.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint sprigs or slices of watermelon for a colorful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita?
Create the perfect summer spread that delights both the eyes and the palate, making your gatherings even more special.
- Grilled Peaches: Juicy, warm peaches caramelized on the grill provide a sweet contrast to the cool mint ice cream.
- Homemade Lemonade: A refreshing, tart beverage that complements the creamy and sweet notes of the dessert. Perfect for keeping guests hydrated.
- Chocolate Mint Cookies: Adding a rich, chocolatey crunch offers a delightful texture variety that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the ice cream.
- Berry Salad: A mix of seasonal berries drizzled with a light honey vinaigrette elevates freshness and adds vibrant colors to your dessert table.
- Sparkling Rosé: This bubbly drink enhances the celebratory feel of summer gatherings, creating an elegant pairing with the dessert duo.
- Mini Fruit Tarts: Individual tarts filled with creamy custard and topped with assorted fruits provide a delightful contrast to the icy granita.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy and mildly sweet, these cookies offer a delightful texture contrast, great to nibble alongside your icy treat.
With these delicious pairings, you’re all set for a summer gathering that celebrates freshness and flavor, making every moment memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the ice cream base up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to chill the mixture overnight for a smoother texture. Additionally, the watermelon granita can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the freezer, ensuring it remains fluffy without large ice chunks. When you’re ready to serve, scoop the granita into bowls and top with the freshly churned mint ice cream. This way, you’ll have an impressively refreshing dessert that’s just as delicious with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita
Chill Overnight: Ensure your ice cream base chills overnight for a smoother and richer texture when you churn it.
Proper Mint Selection: Use fresh, high-quality mint leaves for the best flavor; stale leaves can result in an off-tasting ice cream.
Scraping Granita: Be diligent about scraping the granita every 30 minutes to eliminate large ice chunks, achieving that perfect fluffy texture.
Avoid Overheating: When combining egg yolks with the warm mint mixture, avoid overheating to prevent scrambling—stir gently until thickened.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap watermelon for other fruits, like cantaloupe or honeydew, to create variations of the Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita!
How to Store and Freeze Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita
Airtight Container: Store leftover fresh mint ice cream in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain its creaminess and flavor.
Granita Freezing: Keep the salted watermelon granita frozen in a shallow dish for up to a month; scrape with a fork before serving to refresh its texture.
Refreezing Caution: Avoid repeatedly refreezing the ice cream as it can change the texture; always scoop from the coldest part of the freezer.
Serving Freshness: For optimal freshness and taste, it’s best to consume the ice cream within 3-5 days, ensuring your summer treat remains delightful!
Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this summery delight to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Fruity Flavors: Swap watermelon for fresh fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew, or even berries to change up the flavor profile completely. The burst of sweetness in each variation will keep you eager for more.
- Herbal Infusion: Substitute fresh mint with basil or even lemon balm for a unique aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the granita’s sweetness. Just imagine that fresh herbaceous aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- Coconut Cream Dream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that brings a tropical vibe, perfect for beachy afternoons. This alternative creates an extra layer of richness that feels indulgent yet light.
- Reduced Sugar: For a lighter dessert, use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like monk fruit to sweeten your ice cream and granita, allowing the natural flavors to shine through, making it guilt-free!
- Chocolate Mint Swirl: Add in a few tablespoons of chocolate syrup during the churning process for a delightful chocolate mint twist; the combination creates an irresistible treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Add Some Heat: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the watermelon granita for an unexpected kick that complements the sweetness and makes your taste buds dance!
- Alcoholic Delight: Stir in a splash of rum or vodka to the granita mixture before freezing for an adult version that’s perfect for summer parties, transforming your dessert into a refreshing cocktail-like treat.
- Creamy Yogurt Base: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of the heavy cream in your ice cream for a tangy, nutritious twist that still delivers on flavor and creaminess, perfect for breakfast enthusiasts!
With these fun variations, your Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita can cater to every palate while keeping the refreshing summer vibes alive!
Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita Recipe FAQs
What type of mint should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh spearmint or garden mint for a vibrant and aromatic experience. Avoid using wilted or stale mint leaves, as they can lead to an off-tasting ice cream. Fresh leaves will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your mint ice cream.
How long can I store the Fresh Mint Ice Cream?
Your homemade mint ice cream can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. However, for the best flavor and texture, I suggest enjoying it within 3 to 5 days. This way, you’ll experience that luscious creaminess at its peak!
Can I freeze the Salted Watermelon Granita?
Yes, indeed! You can keep the salted watermelon granita frozen for up to a month. Just remember to transfer it to a shallow, freezer-proof dish. When you’re ready to serve, refresh the texture by scraping it with a fork to achieve that fluffy consistency again.
What should I do if my granita is too icy?
No problem! If your granita ends up too icy, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature to soften slightly. Then, scrape it gently with a fork to fluff it up before serving! This should restore that perfect texture you’re looking for.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this for someone with dietary concerns, you can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free version of the ice cream. Additionally, simply omit the egg yolks or use a vegan egg substitute for a fully dairy-free and egg-free treat. Always check for allergies to ingredients like nuts or specific fruits!
How can I prevent the egg yolks from scrambling when making the ice cream?
Great question! When tempering the egg yolks, it’s essential to slowly add a small amount of the warm mint mixture while whisking. This will gently warm the yolks without causing them to cook too quickly. Then, return this mixture back to the saucepan and heat it gently, stirring constantly until it slightly thickens. Avoid high heat to keep the yolks smooth and creamy!
Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine whole milk, sugar, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Warm this mixture over medium heat, stirring until it begins to bubble, then remove it from heat.
- Add fresh mint leaves to the warm milk mixture and let it steep for 1-2 hours.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth, then temper by slowly adding a bit of the warm mint mixture while whisking, then pour this back into the saucepan.
- Heat gently, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove mint leaves.
- Stir in the remaining heavy cream and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until thick and creamy.
- In a food processor, puree watermelon, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Transfer to a shallow, freezer-proof dish.
- Freeze for about 3-4 hours, scraping with a fork every 30 minutes until it’s fluffy and fully frozen.
- To serve, layer scoops of the fresh mint ice cream with the salted watermelon granita in elegant bowls.