Strawberry Mint Granita

One of my favorite desserts is ice cream. I have to admit it’s not a summer treat for me, I typically eat ice cream year round. However, I may or may not up my ice cream eating during the summer. I recently came across a recipe for a creamy orange granita that I couldn’t wait to put my own spin on. Since strawberries are in season I knew that they would be the star of these granita. What else is perfect about this dessert? No ice cream maker needed. Just pull out your trusty loaf pan and you’re all set to make a perfect cool summer treat!

Strawberry Mint Granita adapted from Southern Living
Ingredients:

2 cups strawberries (pureed)

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

2-3 fresh mint leaves
Directions:
Cut the strawberries and place in a blender to puree. Set the puree in the refrigerator while you prepare the mint simple syrup.

Place the sugar, water and mint leaves in a medium saucepan and cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Simmer on low for about 5 minutes. Discard the mint leaves then cool the syrup for about 20 minutes in the refrigerator.

Pour the strawberry puree into your bread pan. Add the mint simple syrup and stir. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and let set for an hour in the freezer. After an hour, stir then place back in the freezer. Repeat 3-4 times until the granita is set. Serve and enjoy!

Tamara Eckles is a baker, blogger and radio host. She is the founder of Jem of the South, the place where you “Discover Something Sweet!” Join her adventures in baking on her blog and follow her on Instagram and Twitter!