Orange Sorbet

When the dog days of summer hit, there’s nothing like homemade orange sorbet to cool you off—and tantalize your taste buds. Orange sorbet is a guilt-free frozen treat, as oranges are a fantastic source of vitamin C. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, provided you have an ice cream machine, and even if not.

Get ready to make the most refreshing after-dinner dessert or summertime snack.

Orange Sorbet Ingredients

• Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness to your orange sorbet. Using the proper amount of sugar also helps reduce crystal growth when you freeze the sorbet.
• Orange peel: Orange peels give your sorbet its robust citrus flavor.
• Orange juice: Adding orange juice will make the sorbet even richer and more flavorful (ideally, the juice is freshly squeezed to ensure the best flavor).
• Lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the flavor profile of your orange sorbet and helps prevent discoloration. It also provides antioxidants.
• Orange liqueur or vodka: Adding alcohol to your sorbet is, of course, optional, but if you want a boozy treat, vodka or orange liqueur works well here.

Directions

Step 1: Combine ingredients in a saucepan

First, combine the sugar, water, and orange peel in a small saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and then discard the orange peel. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Combine the other ingredients in a bowl

In a large bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, orange liqueur (if using), and reserved sugar mixture.

Step 3: Fill the ice cream maker

Then, fill the cylinder of your ice cream maker with the mixture and freeze according to the manufacturer’s directions. Transfer the mixture to a freezer container and freeze for at least eight hours (or overnight).

Orange Sorbet Variations

• Experiment with types of oranges: Especially if they’re in season, Blood oranges and Caracaras can be substituted for regular oranges.
• Add spices: Give your sorbet a refreshing kick by adding ginger, star anise, or cloves. Add the spice of your choice during Step 1 and discard the pieces with the orange peels.

How long does orange sorbet last?

Homemade orange sorbet can last for up to two weeks, provided it’s stored properly in an airtight container, in the freezer.

Orange Sorbet Tips

How long should I freeze the sorbet after churning?

Freeze your sorbet mixture at least three to four hours after churning to ensure the ideal consistency.

How far ahead can I make orange sorbet before serving?

This sorbet can be made two weeks before serving. Just be sure to thaw it out slightly when you’re ready to serve it, or else it will be too hard.

What pairs well with orange sorbet?

Orange sorbet is a tasty treat on its own, but it would also go well with fresh fruit, like strawberries or cantaloupe. It also pairs nicely with sponge cake.
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