Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

There’s something magical about summer evenings when the sun dips low, casting a golden hue over everything. On such nights, I find myself craving something refreshing yet indulgent. Imagine savoring a scoop of creamy, fresh mint ice cream paired with a fluffy, sparkling watermelon granita. It’s a combination that conjures fond memories of childhood and warm family gatherings. But if you’re anything like me, the thought of making ice cream at home might come with a sprinkle of fear—is it too complicated? What if it doesn’t turn out right?

Let me reassure you: creating this Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita is not just achievable, but incredibly rewarding. Even if it’s your first time making homemade ice cream, I promise this recipe will feel stress-free and deliciously doable. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe of Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

This lovely recipe holds a special place in my heart—not just for its wonderful flavors but also for its simple elegance. It’s a delightful blend of the fresh herbal notes from the mint and the sweet juiciness of watermelon. The buttery richness of the cream and the light texture of the granita together create a harmony that’s both cozy and refreshing.

For beginner cooks, this recipe is particularly appealing. It doesn’t demand a long list of complicated steps or fancy equipment (besides an ice cream maker). All you need is some fresh mint, a few basic ingredients, and a bit of patience while the flavors develop. It’s a perfect way to practice your cooking skills while impressing your family and friends with a delightful homemade dessert.

Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

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• Author: Jessica Hakan
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing and indulgent summer dessert, combining creamy fresh mint ice cream with fluffy salted watermelon granita.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups watermelon, pureed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Infuse the mint by heating mint leaves, sugar, cream, and milk until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and steep for 30 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Chill the mint mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
4. Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Combine watermelon puree, water, and salt in a bowl.
6. Freeze the watermelon mixture in a shallow dish, scraping every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to create fluffiness.
7. Serve the fresh mint ice cream topped with the salted watermelon granita.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using lime or lemon zest and experimenting with other fresh herbs or sweeteners.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Chilling, Freezing, Infusing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: mint ice cream, watermelon granita, summer dessert, homemade ice cream, refreshing dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need for Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

Now that we’ve set the stage for this culinary adventure, let’s gather our ingredients.

Essentials

• 2 cups fresh mint leaves
  This is the star of our ice cream! Make sure to choose vibrant, fragrant leaves for the best flavor.

• 1 cup heavy cream
  Rich and creamy, this will give our ice cream its luscious texture.

• 1 cup whole milk
  This balances out the richness of the cream, making it a delightful treat that isn’t too heavy.

• 3/4 cup sugar
  Sweetness is essential for the flavor profile of our mint ice cream.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  This adds a lovely warmth to the ice cream.

• 2 cups watermelon, pureed
  Fresh watermelon brings that quenching taste to our granita.

• 1/2 cup water
  To help the granita freeze evenly.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ons and Substitutions

If you’d like to add a twist to this recipe, consider mixing:

• Lime or Lemon Zest: A teaspoon can complement the watermelon nicely.
• Other Fresh Herbs: Such as basil or lemon balm for a unique flavor.
• Sweetener Options: If you prefer, you can use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar—just remember to adjust to taste.

Shortcuts

For those pressed for time, feel free to use store-bought ice cream and granita as your base. Just add a fresh twist with the mint or additional toppings to give your dessert that homemade touch.

Looking for more tips? Follow us on Pinterest and Facebook!

How to Make Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita Step-by-Step

Now, let’s get cooking! The process may involve a few steps, but I promise you, it’s straightforward and worth every moment.

Step 1: Infuse the Mint

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh mint leaves, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of whole milk. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until you notice the sugar has dissolved completely—that’s when the magic begins! Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This step is key, allowing the mint flavor to steep beautifully into the cream mixture.

Step 2: Strain the Mixture

After steeping, it’s time to give your mixture a little love by straining it. Grab a fine-mesh sieve and pour the mint-infused cream through to catch those leaves. You’ll be left with a smooth, fragrant base that’s just begging for a touch of vanilla. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Chill the Base

Now, cover your mint mixture and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is essential; it allows those flavors to meld and ensures that your ice cream will be creamy and refreshing.

Step 4: Ice Cream Time!

Once your mint mixture is nicely chilled, it’s showtime! If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-30 minutes. The result will be a soft, creamy mint base that you can either serve straight away or transfer to an airtight container and freeze for a firmer texture later.

Step 5: Make the Watermelon Granita

Now onto the granita! In a bowl, combine 2 cups of pureed watermelon, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these ingredients together fills your kitchen with a sweet, summery fragrance.

Step 6: Freeze the Granita

Pour your watermelon mixture into a shallow dish. Freezing it might seem simple enough, but here’s the twist: every 30 minutes, you need to grab a fork and scrape the mixture. This will help create that fluffy, flaky texture we all adore in granita. Repeat this scraping for about 2-3 hours until you achieve the desired fluffiness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Now, it’s finally time to indulge! Scoop generous portions of your fresh mint ice cream into bowls and top it with the fluffy salted watermelon granita. You can even layer them for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy a refreshing treat that will remind you of those golden summer evenings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As with any recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of when making Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita. Here are some tips to ensure success:

1. Overheating the Cream

When heating the cream and sugar, don’t let it reach a boil. Just warm it enough for the sugar to dissolve. Boiling can change both the texture and flavor of the cream, which you want to avoid.

2. Not Straining Thoroughly

Neglecting to strain the mint mixture can leave tiny bits of mint in your ice cream—unless you enjoy that, go ahead! But if you prefer a smooth texture, strain it well to capture all those leaves.

3. Forgetting to Chill

Chilling your mixture is crucial. If you skip this step, you’ll end up with icy, grainy ice cream instead of the creamy delight you’re aiming for. So, be patient and let it chill!

4. Not Scraping the Granita Enough

When making the granita, be diligent about scraping every 30 minutes. It may feel tedious, but skipping this step will leave you with a solid block of watermelon that’s not pleasant to eat.

Serving Suggestions for Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

As you serve your creation, consider a few ideas to elevate the experience!

1. Garnish with Fresh Mint

Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of your ice cream for a pop of color and an extra infusion of minty aroma.

2. Pair with Light Cookies

Serve alongside some light, crunchy cookies like biscotti or ladyfingers for a delightful contrast in textures.

3. Create a Sundae

For a fun twist, turn it into a sundae by adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a spoonful of fruit compote.

4. Serve in Unique Bowls

Use fun, colorful bowls or mason jars for serving. They add a whimsical touch, perfect for summer gatherings.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are some pro-level tips to take your ice cream and granita to new heights:

1. Experiment with Flavors

Try using different herbs like basil for the ice cream or mixing in some fresh berries with the watermelon granita for added flavor variety.

2. Mix-In Options

For the ice cream, consider adding chunks of chocolate, or toasted nuts during the last few minutes of churning for extra texture.

3. Transform into a Floats

For a delightful twist, create a float by adding your mint ice cream scoops into a glass of chilled lemon-lime soda or sparkling water—perfect for a hot day!

4. Make Ahead and Store

You can batch these treats ahead of time! They’ll keep well in the freezer for a week or two, just remember that homemade ice cream can become harder if frozen too long. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easy serving.

Conclusion

In closing, I hope you feel inspired to give the Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita a try. It’s easier than it looks, customizable to your taste, and truly a cozy addition to your summer repertoire. Why not bring a little joy to your kitchen and delicately craft this delightful pair?

I encourage you to share your creations and experiences! Feel free to leave a comment or reach out if you have questions. Happy cooking!

Interested in more frozen desserts? I invite you to read the list of 16 Best Iced Coffee Recipes, 15 Kid-friendly Ice Cream ideas, or the Ninja Creami recipes. 

FAQs About Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita

So, gather your ingredients and let’s create something wonderful today!