Lemon Sorbet is the ultimate refreshing treat. Bright, zesty lemons meet a subtle touch of turmeric, creating a naturally golden color that's as eye-catching as it is delicious. Made with just a few simple and clean ingredients, this sorbet is fresh, light, and a healthier alternative to many other frozen treats.
As the weather warms up, this dairy-free dessert is exactly what I crave on hot afternoons. It's perfect after a big summer meal, for backyard gatherings, or anytime you want something cool and satisfying without feeling heavy. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser - kids love the vibrant color, and adults love the bright, tart flavor.
This lemon sorbet recipe was inspired by our obsession with sorbets like our Strawberry Sorbet and Peach Sorbet, and it pairs well with this amazing Blueberry Sauce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Naturally yellow with turmeric. The turmeric not only gives the sorbet its gorgeous color but also adds a slight depth of flavor. This is a great way to enjoy a vibrant dessert without using artificial dyes.
- Dairy-free and vegan. Perfect for those who follow a dairy-free or vegan lifestyle. It's a refreshing treat everyone can enjoy, even those with dietary restrictions.
- Simple ingredients. Made with just a few pantry staples (available all year round), this sorbet is easy to whip up and requires no complicated preparation. Plus, it doesn't require an ice cream maker either!
- Cleansing and refreshing. Lemon is known for its refreshing, detoxifying qualities. It's the perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal.
- Perfect for summer. The tangy lemon flavor makes this sorbet ideal for hot weather and outdoor gatherings, adding a cool, refreshing treat to any summer menu.
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Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this delicious lemon sorbet, you will need the following ingredients (see recipe card below for quantities):
- lemons - Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest is best for a zesty, bright flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always recommended.
- water - Acts as the base liquid for the sorbet. You can also use coconut water for a tropical twist.
- turmeric - Adds a natural, vibrant yellow color to the sorbet without any artificial additives. It also brings a subtle earthy flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- sugar - This adds sweetness and helps the sorbet maintain the right texture. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a more natural alternative.
Equipment
You'll also need measuring cups and spoons, a blender or food processor, a medium saucepan, a fine mesh strainer, an ice cream maker (optional), and a shallow container for freezing.
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the simple syrup mixture to cool.
- Once cooled, stir in the fresh lemon juice and turmeric.
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish, such as a loaf pan, and cover. Place it in the freezer to freeze for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, remove the sorbet from the freezer and whisk vigorously until it reaches a slushy consistency. Return it to the freezer for another 4 hours.
- Once it's partially frozen, remove it from the freezer again and whisk to incorporate air, which will make the sorbet lighter. Place it back in the freezer and let it fully set overnight.
- When ready to serve, scoop the sorbet. If it's too hard, transfer it to a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Enjoy!
Top Tip: Stir Frequently
Stir the mixture periodically as it freezes to break up the ice crystals and improve the texture. For an even smoother, creamier result, stir every 30 minutes. You can also use an ice cream maker to churn the sorbet quickly.
How to Make Sorbet in an Ice Cream Maker
Another option is to allow the hot lemon mixture to cool to room temperature and then transfer into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer's directions, usually about 20 minutes, until frozen and smooth.
More Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemons and natural sweeteners yield the best flavor and texture in the sorbet.
- Add a splash of alcohol. A tablespoon of vodka or limoncello helps prevent the sorbet from freezing too hard and creates a smoother consistency.
- Make it in advance. This sorbet can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks, making it a great dessert to prepare for a gathering.
Recipe Variations
- Add fruit. Try adding some fresh fruit, like raspberries or strawberries, to your sorbet for a fruity variation. Blend the fruit with the lemon juice before freezing for a beautiful marbled effect.
- Make it creamy. This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but for a creamier twist, blend in a splash of milk or yogurt. It transforms the sorbet into an ultra-smooth, velvety treat.
- Tropical flavor. Add coconut milk in place of some of the water for a tropical twist. The coconut flavor pairs really well with the lemon.
- Herbal twist. Experiment with herbs like fresh mint, basil, or rosemary for a unique take on the classic lemon flavor. Infuse the herbs in the water before mixing it into the sorbet base.
- Citrus medley. Combine lemon with other citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, or tangerine for a refreshing citrus sorbet mix.
Storage
Once made, store your lemon sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer. It will last for up to 1-2 weeks, but for the best texture, consume it within a few days. If it becomes too hard, let it sit out for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping.
How to Serve
This lemon turmeric sorbet is delicious on its own, perfect after a hearty meal, or as a refreshing treat on a warm day.
These are my favorite recipes to serve with homemade lemon sorbet:
FAQ
No, lemon sorbet is not ice cream. While both are frozen desserts, the main difference lies in the ingredients. Sorbet is made with fruit juice, sugar, and water, and contains no dairy or fat. Ice cream, on the other hand, is made with cream or milk, and often includes egg yolks for a rich, creamy texture. Sorbet is much lighter and more refreshing, making it a great alternative for those seeking a dairy-free or lower-fat treat.
Yes, lemon sorbet is healthier than ice cream as it is dairy-free, lower in fat, and made with fewer ingredients. While ice cream is rich in calories and dairy, sorbet provides a lighter, more refreshing option that is typically lower in sugar and fat. For those looking to reduce dairy intake or avoid heavy desserts, sorbet is an excellent alternative.
Lemon sorbet has a bright, tangy, and refreshing taste that's both sweet and tart. The lemon provides a zesty burst of flavor, while the sugar balances out the tartness for a satisfying finish. The turmeric adds a subtle, earthy undertone, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the lemon. It's a clean and crisp dessert that's perfect for a refreshing treat on a warm day.
Lemon sorbet is a dairy-free dessert made from lemon juice, sugar, and water. It has a smooth, icy texture and is very refreshing. Lemon sherbet, however, contains a small amount of dairy, which gives it a creamier texture. The presence of dairy in sherbet makes it taste richer, while sorbet is usually more vibrant and tart due to the absence of cream or milk.
Sorbet can be a great substitute for ice cream, especially for people with dietary restrictions such as lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet. Sorbet has a refreshing, fruit-forward flavor and is lighter than ice cream. While it doesn't have the creamy richness of ice cream, it offers a smooth, sweet alternative that is equally satisfying. Sorbet is also lower in calories and fat compared to traditional ice cream.
Sorbet generally contains less sugar than ice cream. Since sorbet does not require the added sweetness of dairy and fat, it tends to be lower in sugar content. However, the sugar levels can still vary depending on the recipe and any added ingredients. If you're looking for a lighter, less sugary option, sorbet is a great choice compared to ice cream, which requires sugar to balance out the creaminess of the dairy.
No, dogs should not consume lemon sorbet. The lemon and sugar content can upset a dog's stomach, and the turmeric, while safe in small amounts, may not be ideal for all pets. Additionally, sorbet often contains artificial sweeteners or other ingredients that are not safe for dogs. Always stick to dog-safe frozen treats that are designed specifically for their dietary needs.
Lemon and turmeric are both incredibly healthy ingredients packed with benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, known to support skin, hair, and teeth health, while also helping to prevent diabetes, high blood pressure, constipation, fever, and indigestion. They also have cancer-fighting properties.
Turmeric, a powerful antioxidant, is proven to fight against various diseases such as arthritis, Alzheimer's, ulcers, and cancer. Regular consumption of turmeric can also help regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and boost the immune system. Combining these two superfoods in this sorbet not only makes it refreshing but also nourishing for your body.
More Sorbet Recipes
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
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Recipe
Lemon Sorbet (Naturally Yellow)
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Lemon Sorbet is the ultimate refreshing treat. Bright, zesty lemons meet a subtle touch of turmeric, creating a naturally golden color that's as eye-catching as it is delicious. Made with just a few simple and clean ingredients, this sorbet is fresh, light, and a healthier alternative to many other frozen treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- zest of 2 lemons
- 1 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
- Once cooled, stir in the fresh lemon juice and turmeric.
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish, such as a loaf pan, and cover. Place it in the freezer to freeze for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, remove the sorbet from the freezer and whisk vigorously until it reaches a slushy consistency. Return it to the freezer for another 4 hours.
- Once it's partially frozen, remove it from the freezer again and whisk to incorporate air, which will make the sorbet lighter. Place it back in the freezer and let it fully set overnight.
-
When ready to serve, scoop the sorbet. If it's too hard, transfer it to a food processor or blender and process until smooth.
Notes
How to store: Once made, store your lemon sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer. It will last for up to 1-2 weeks, but for the best texture, consume it within a few days. If it becomes too hard, let it sit out for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 8 hours
- Category: Ice Cream
- Method: Freeze
- Cuisine: American
This post was originally published in 2018 and was completely updated with new photos and written content.
Amanda says
Sorbets are my favorites for summer. They are much lighter and more refreshing than ice creams or frozen yogurt. Turmeric is not the usual, but I can see how it would be a good flavor with the honey and lemon.
Ruchi says
Sorbets are so easy to make! And lemons always taste so summery and delicious in frozen desserts. Never thought of adding turmeric to the frozen treat before, looks good.
Tamara Andersen says
I love making sorbets year 'round, but especially summer! This flavor combo sounds amazing, and I love the intense yellow color! Boom!
lauren says
I am here for ALL the lemon things! Lemon desserts in the summertime are just blissful. I love how you added turmeric to this sorbet recipe and substituted regular sugar for honey!
Sanna says
I love how simple it is to make and that they are so good not only for the taste buds but for the body. I would love to cool down with this dessert this summer.
Anna says
Absolutely perfect treat to cool down with!!!! Love that you've used turmeric in this recipe, what a genius idea!