Fresh Lemon Sherbet

Prep: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A refreshing and tangy lemon sherbet with a creamy texture, perfect for warm days or as a palate cleanser, appealing to those who love citrus desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. half and half
  • 1 1/4 c. sugar
  • 1 to 2 Tbsp. grated lemon peel

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients well.
  2. Pour into ice trays or a square 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
  3. Freeze about 4 hours until solid.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half. You can also adjust the lemon peel according to your preference for tanginess, using up to 2 tablespoons if you love a stronger lemon flavor. If you're looking to make this a vegan recipe, substitute the half and half with coconut cream or cashew cream for a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the lemon sherbet into chilled bowls or glasses for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with Holly Berry Cookies for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon for an elegant presentation. This sherbet also works well as a palate cleanser between courses.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover lemon sherbet in an airtight container in the freezer. To soften it for easier scooping, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. If properly stored, it should maintain its flavor and texture for up to two weeks.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fresh Lemon Sherbet contains roughly 77 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

77 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 19.1g 7% DV
Fiber 3.3g 12% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 14mg 1% DV
Potassium 213.3mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 27.2mg 30% DV
Calcium 20mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon peel?

While bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, using fresh grated lemon peel provides a more vibrant flavor and aroma. The essential oils in the peel enhance the sherbet's taste, giving it a fresher profile. If you must use juice, try to add some zest for added flavor.

How can I make this recipe sugar-free?

You can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level of the substitute you choose. This will allow you to enjoy a guilt-free version of this delicious lemon sherbet.

What can I do if my sherbet is too hard after freezing?

If the sherbet is too hard, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will soften it enough for easy scooping. Alternatively, you can blend the mixture briefly in a food processor to achieve a smoother texture before refreezing.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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