When the sweltering heat of summer hits, there’s nothing quite like a deliciously cool dessert to bring relief. That’s exactly how I discovered the perfect match for those long, sunny afternoons: Fresh Mint Ice Cream paired with Salted Watermelon Granita. This delightful duo isn’t just about beat-the-heat refreshment; the vibrant, creamy mint ice cream contrasts beautifully with the light, flaky granita, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Imagine serving this dreamy dessert at your next outdoor gathering, with friends sipping sparkling rosé and indulging in these chilled delights. Plus, the best part? Both components are easy to make, making this a stress-free treat. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking to impress friends, this recipe will quickly become your go-to summer indulgence. Join me as we whip up a taste of refreshing bliss!
Why is Fresh Mint Ice Cream a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The fresh mint elevates this ice cream with a bright, invigorating taste, perfect for summer.
Easy Steps: Creating this dessert involves simple techniques that make it accessible, even for novice cooks.
Crowned with Granita: The addition of salted watermelon granita offers a refreshing contrast, introducing a unique twist to traditional ice cream.
Impressive Presentation: Layering the mint ice cream with granita not only looks beautiful but is sure to impress your guests.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for both casual nights and elegant gatherings, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion! For more delightful summer ideas, check out our guide on cocktail dessert recipes.
Fresh Mint Ice Cream Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components for making Fresh Mint Ice Cream that will refresh your summer days.
For the Ice Cream Base
- Whole Milk – Provides creaminess; you can use 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Fresh Mint Leaves – Gives a refreshing flavor; consider using spearmint or peppermint for a twist.
- Sugar – Sweetens the ice cream; feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and smooth texture; swap it with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Egg Yolks – Provides structure and creaminess; for an egg-free version, use cornstarch instead.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; try using sea salt for an upscale touch.
For the Salted Watermelon Granita
- Watermelon – Provides hydration and sweetness; cantaloupe or honeydew can be delicious alternatives.
- Sugar – Sweetens the granita; opt for stevia for a lower-calorie option if desired.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to balance sweetness; lime juice works well as a vibrant substitute.
- Flaked Sea Salt – Enhances the watermelon flavor; coarse kosher salt can also do the trick.
How to Make Fresh Mint Ice Cream
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Prepare the Watermelon Granita:
Begin by pureeing the watermelon, sugar, and lemon juice together until the mixture is smooth. Pour it into a shallow freezer-proof dish and freeze. Remember to scrape it with a fork every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours until it’s fully frozen and flaked. -
Heat the Creamy Base:
In a saucepan, heat the whole milk, sugar, and 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until the edges start to bubble. This brings out the sweetness and makes the base incredibly creamy. -
Infuse with Mint:
Add the fresh mint leaves to the warm milk mixture. Cover it and let it steep for 1-2 hours, allowing the mint to impart its delightful flavor into the ice cream base. -
Whisk the Egg Yolks:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually drizzle in the warm milk mixture to temper the yolks, which will help create a rich and creamy texture. -
Thicken the Mixture:
Return the entire mixture to the heat and cook until it thickens slightly. Strain it into a bowl to remove the mint leaves, then mix in the remaining heavy cream for added richness. -
Chill the Base:
Allow the mixture to chill completely in the refrigerator, ideally overnight, for the best texture in your ice cream. -
Churn the Ice Cream:
Once chilled, follow your ice cream maker’s instructions to churn the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Layer the fresh mint ice cream into small dessert dishes, topping it off with flaked watermelon granita and a sprinkle of flaked sea salt.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fresh Mint Ice Cream?
Enhance your delightful dessert experience with these tasty pairings that contrast and complement your chilled treat beautifully.
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Salty Pretzels: The crunch and saltiness of pretzels create an enjoyable texture contrast to the creamy ice cream.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a vibrant burst of natural sweetness that perfectly cuts through the minty richness.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies add a tropical flair that complements the coolness of the ice cream and granita.
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Sparkling Rosé: Serve a glass of bubbly alongside your dessert for an elegant cocktail experience that brightens every bite.
Indulging in this combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also elevates your dessert to a memorable occasion. Think of the balance created by the sweet, refreshing mint ice cream meeting the salty and juicy granita as guests savor each spoonful together.
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Mint-Infused Lemonade: A refreshing drink with mint accents echoes the ice cream’s flavors, keeping everything wonderfully cohesive.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Adding a light drizzle of dark chocolate adds a decadent twist to your plate, creating a sumptuous treat.
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Mini Fruit Tartlets: These little delights offer a crispy base with fresh fruit, providing a lovely contrast in flavor and texture alongside your creamy dessert.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, lightly sweetened biscotti gives a delightful dip-and-savor experience that pairs exceptionally well with the soft textures of mint ice cream.
Fresh Mint Ice Cream Variations
Add your own twist to this delicious recipe and make it uniquely yours!
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Herbaceous Twist: Substitute fresh mint with basil to create a fragrant, herb-infused ice cream that’s surprisingly delightful. The aroma will transport you to a lush garden!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Exchange heavy cream for coconut cream and whole milk for almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
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Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in mini chocolate chips just before churning for an added crunch that pairs beautifully with the refreshing mint.
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Fruity Addition: Blend in a puree of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity take. The result is a burst of berry goodness in every scoop!
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice to the ice cream base for a tangy twist that enhances the mint’s sweetness. It’s a bright way to elevate the flavor profile.
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Salted Caramel Swirl: Drizzle salted caramel sauce into the churned ice cream before freezing to create an indulgent marbled effect. The sweet and salty contrast is irresistible!
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Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the granita for a surprising kick. It’s a fun way to spice up the refreshing watermelon flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pistachios for an added texture and flavor dimension that complements the fresh mint beautifully, making every bite a delight!
Expert Tips for Fresh Mint Ice Cream
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Chill Overnight: Ensure your ice cream base is chilled overnight for that creamy texture you crave—skip this step and you might end up with a grainy result.
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Consistent Scraping: Scrape the granita every 30 minutes to keep it fluffy and prevent it from becoming a solid block—this will give you the perfect icy texture for your dessert.
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Fine Mesh Strainer: Use a fine mesh strainer after steeping the mint leaves to achieve a smooth and velvety ice cream; it’s a simple step that enhances the final product.
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Experiment with Mint: Don’t hesitate to try different mint varieties. Spearmint gives a sweeter flavor, while peppermint offers a bolder taste—pick your favorite for the best fresh mint ice cream!
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Sweetener Swaps: For a lighter take, swap regular sugar with coconut sugar or stevia in both components—the taste will be delicious without compromising your health goals.
How to Store and Freeze Fresh Mint Ice Cream
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Fridge: Store the ice cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. It maintains its creamy texture and allows for easy scooping when you’re ready to indulge.
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Freezer: The salted watermelon granita can be stored in a freezer-safe dish for up to 1 week. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will restore its creamy consistency.
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Make Ahead: Both components can be made ahead of time, making this fresh mint ice cream parfait stress-free for summer gatherings. Just ensure they are covered properly in the freezer.
Make Ahead Options
Making Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Salted Watermelon Granita ahead of time is a game changer for busy cooks! You can prepare the watermelon granita up to a week in advance, simply pour the pureed mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. For the best texture, scrape it with a fork every 30 minutes for the first few hours, then cover and store in an airtight container. The ice cream base can be made up to 24 hours ahead; steep and chill it overnight for maximum flavor. When ready to serve, churn the ice cream and layer it with the granita for a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh, saving you precious time when hosting!
Fresh Mint Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of mint is best for Fresh Mint Ice Cream?
Absolutely! While you can use any fresh mint, spearmint is often preferred for its sweeter, more delicate flavor. Peppermint offers a more robust taste, so choose based on your preference! Both will give your ice cream a refreshing kick.
How should I store Fresh Mint Ice Cream?
To keep your ice cream delicious and scoopable, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze the Watermelon Granita for longer?
Yes! The salted watermelon granita can easily be made ahead and stored in a freezer-safe dish for up to 1 week. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to avoid freezer burn. Scraping it every 30 minutes during freezing will keep it light and fluffy!
What can I do if my ice cream base doesn’t thicken?
If your mint ice cream base isn’t thickening, it might need a bit more cooking time. After tempering the egg yolks, return the mixture to the heat and stir continuously until it coats the back of a spoon; this should take just a few minutes. Make sure to use a thermometer if possible, aiming for about 170°F (77°C).
Can I use dairy-free alternatives in the recipe?
Very much! You can substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. Just ensure your sugar alternatives are suitable for your diet—coconut sugar or agave can work well!
How do I serve the Fresh Mint Ice Cream and Watermelon Granita together?
For the best presentation and taste, layer scoops of your fresh mint ice cream with the salted watermelon granita in small dessert dishes. Top with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch that’s sure to impress!
Delicious Fresh Mint Ice Cream with a Salted Watermelon Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by pureeing the watermelon, sugar, and lemon juice together until the mixture is smooth. Pour it into a shallow freezer-proof dish and freeze. Remember to scrape it with a fork every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours until it’s fully frozen and flaked.
- In a saucepan, heat the whole milk, sugar, and 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until the edges start to bubble.
- Add the fresh mint leaves to the warm milk mixture. Cover it and let it steep for 1-2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually drizzle in the warm milk mixture to temper the yolks.
- Return the entire mixture to the heat and cook until it thickens slightly. Strain it into a bowl to remove the mint leaves.
- Allow the mixture to chill completely in the refrigerator, ideally overnight.
- Once chilled, churn the mixture in your ice cream maker until creamy.
- Layer the fresh mint ice cream into small dessert dishes, topping it with flaked watermelon granita and a sprinkle of flaked sea salt.