Coconut Pineapple Sorbet

Coconut Pineapple Sorbet

This sorbet is dairy-free, incredibly refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavors. The optional swirl adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Yields: Approximately 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight) Churn time: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Coconut Pineapple Sorbet Base:

• 1 can (13.5 oz / 400ml) full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess, ensure it’s well-chilled)
• 2 cups (about 300g) fresh ripe pineapple chunks, cored
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (adjust to the sweetness of your pineapple)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (enhances flavor and prevents over-crystallization)
• Pinch of salt

For the Optional Tropical Swirl (e.g., Mango or Pineapple Sauce):

• 1/2 cup (about 100g) ripe mango or pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness of fruit)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice (optional)

Equipment:

• Ice cream maker
• Blender or food processor
• Small saucepan (for simple syrup)
• Airtight freezer-safe container

Instructions:

1. Make the Simple Syrup: * In a small saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water. * Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil. * Remove from heat and let cool completely. This is important for smooth sorbet texture.

2. Prepare the Pineapple Puree: * In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh pineapple chunks, the cooled simple syrup, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. * Blend until completely smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. This step ensures a very smooth sorbet. Discard any remaining pulp.

3. Combine and Chill the Base: * Whisk the full-fat coconut milk into the strained pineapple puree. * Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary. Remember that flavors will be less pronounced when frozen. * Cover the bowl and chill the sorbet base in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The colder the base, the better the sorbet will churn.

4. Prepare the Optional Tropical Swirl (if using): * While the sorbet base is chilling (or just before churning), combine the mango or pineapple chunks, sugar, and lime juice (if using) in a blender or food processor. * Blend until completely smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a tiny bit of water (1 teaspoon at a time) to reach a pourable consistency, but it should still be thick enough to swirl. * Set aside or chill until ready to use.

5. Churn the Sorbet: * Pour the thoroughly chilled sorbet base into your ice cream maker’s freezer bowl. * Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for 20-30 minutes, until the sorbet is thick and has the consistency of soft-serve.

6. Layer and Freeze (with or without swirl): * Without Swirl: Transfer the churned sorbet directly into an airtight freezer-safe container. * With Swirl: Spoon about half of the churned sorbet into your freezer-safe container. Drizzle about half of the tropical swirl over it. Use a spoon or knife to gently create swirls without fully mixing. Add the remaining sorbet, and then drizzle the rest of the swirl on top, gently swirling again. * Cover the container tightly and freeze for at least 2-4 hours, or until firm, before serving.

Tips for the Best Sorbet:

• Ripe Fruit: Using very ripe pineapple will give you the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Chill Thoroughly: The colder your sorbet base is, the quicker and more effectively your ice cream maker will churn, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Strain: Straining the pineapple puree ensures a silky smooth sorbet.
• Adjust Sweetness: Always taste your base before churning and adjust the sugar. Remember that the coldness dulls sweetness, so it might need a bit more sugar than you’d expect.
• Storage: Store homemade sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. It’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal texture.

Enjoy your refreshing Coconut Pineapple Sorbet!