After experimenting with a few granitas recently, I’m officially hooked on this icy, adult-friendly slush. It’s not only delicious but incredibly simple to make. How simple? This cherry limeade granita calls for just two main ingredients.
What are we making? A refreshing cherry limeade granita.
It balances a bright tartness with a touch of sweetness. Ideal for enjoying outdoors—preferably on a sun-drenched patio with sunglasses—this granita captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.
Ingredients (makes roughly 14 oz)
– 1/2 cup 100% cherry juice (store-bought is fine)
– 1 1/2 cups limeade
If you have fresh limes on hand, you can replace 1/2 cup of the store-bought limeade with 1/2 cup fresh lime juice—so use 1 cup limeade plus 1/2 cup fresh lime juice—for an extra bright citrus note. This optional swap adds a fresh zing without changing the method.
No added sugar is necessary: the cherry juice provides enough sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, stir in about 1/3 cup water to mellow the mix, though I left mine undiluted for a more punchy result.
Instructions:
1. Combine the cherry juice and limeade (and fresh lime juice or water if using) in a shallow bowl or baking dish and stir until blended.
2. Place the bowl in the freezer. After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and rake the partially frozen surface to break up any forming ice crystals.
3. Return the bowl to the freezer and repeat the raking every 30 minutes until the entire mixture is composed of light, flaky ice crystals—this usually takes several repetitions depending on your freezer and dish depth.
4. When the granita is fully frozen into a fluffy, crystalline texture, serve immediately in chilled glasses or bowls. For an attractive presentation, garnish with a lime wedge or a few cherries, if desired.
Photography and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff
How are you staying cool during the final stretch of summer?
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