Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
346 | 0.5g | 0g | 89g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
87g | 4g | 1g | 0.005g |
There is nothing quite as luxurious or satisfying as a good sorbet. And not just any sorbet, but the Boysenberry Sorbet. The fusion of sweet-tangy berries, citrus, sugar, and just a hint of vodka presents a balanced symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and surprisingly wholesome. Now, being the Texan food lover that I am, I always enjoy adding my personal twist to traditional recipes. Still, there’s something about the simplicity of this traditional Southern dessert that really makes it shine out.
Boysenberry – A Berry Unique Experience
By now, you may be wondering, “what exactly is a boysenberry?” Well, boysenberry is a cross between European raspberry, common blackberry, American dewberry, and loganberry. It combines the best qualities of these four berries. Not only does it promise a distinctive flavor, but it is also packed with health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making our Boysenberry Sorbet not just a delightful treat, but a nourishing choice.
The Twist of Flavor
And, let’s not forget the refreshing twist of lemon that awakens the palate. Lemon juice is known for its health benefits which include boosting the immune system, promoting hydration, and aiding digestion. To spice things up a notch, we’ve also added an optional tablespoon of vodka. The alcohol prevents the sorbet from freezing solid, giving it a silky, scoop-able texture while subtly enhancing the berry flavors.
Even if sorbets are traditionally served as palate cleansers between courses, our Boysenberry Sorbet can cap off any meal with a sweet and vibrant finish. Try it after a plate of
tacos al pastor or pair it with shortbread cookies for a wonderful afternoon snack. It reminds me of the fruit-based desserts we love in the South, like peach cobbler or blackberry pie—only lighter, more refreshing, and perfect for the hotter months.
So, whether you’re just discovering the joy of homemade desserts or a seasoned cook on the hunt for your next favorite recipe, I’m sure you’re going to love Boysenberry Sorbet. It’s a perfect blend of the familiar and the unexpected; A healthful, colorful treat that celebrates the very essence of southern cooking – making the most of local produce to create wonderful flavors.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh boysenberries
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon vodka (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by putting your fresh boysenberries in a blender or food processer. Blend them until they are thoroughly puréed. This should result in a thick and deeply colored liquid.
Step Two
Transfer the boysenberry purée into a fine-mesh sieve placed over a large bowl. Using a spatula, press the boysenberries to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the remaining seeds and pulp.
Step Three
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and the water. Heat the mixture, stirring continuously, until the sugar has completely dissolved. This will create a simple syrup. Allow this syrup to cool down slightly.
Step Four
Once the simple syrup has cooled, combine it with the boysenberry juice in the large bowl. Add in the fresh lemon juice and stir thoroughly. At this point, you can also add the vodka if you wish. The alcohol will lower the freezing point of the mixture which will result in a softer sorbet. However, this is completely optional and can be left out if you prefer.
Step Five
Once everything is mixed together, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. This chilling process is crucial as it helps to produce a smoother final product.
Step Six
After the mixture is chilled, it’s time to churn it. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, this takes about 20-25 minutes.
Step Seven
Once the sorbet has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to a lidded container and place it in the freezer. Allow the sorbet to set for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
Step Eight
Your homemade boysenberry sorbet is now ready to be served and enjoyed!