Hi everyone, Tracy here! I hope you’re all enjoying these warm summer days. When the temperature starts to climb, nothing satisfies my cravings for something sweet and refreshing quite like fruity, icy treats. That’s why I wanted to share one of my personal favorites – this easy homemade pineapple granita recipe.
As a busy mom trying to juggle work, family activities and everything in between during the summer rush, I’m always looking for desserts that are simple to throw together with minimal effort. And let me tell you, this pineapple granita totally fits the bill! All it takes is some pineapple juice, sugar and a little lemon to transform into a bright, tropical slushie.
The tangy sweetness of the pineapple reminds me of carefree vacations lounging beachside with an umbrella drink in hand. And the icy, granular texture is so fun and different from typical sorbets or ice cream. Every spoonful instantly transports me to a little slice of paradise! My kids go absolutely crazy over this stuff too – probably because I let them take turns churning the mixture as it freezes. That way they can sneak “samples” along the way (wink wink).
Whipping up a batch of pineapple granita has become our favorite family tradition on hot summer nights when we want something sweet but still light and refreshing after dinner. We’ll mix a big pitcher of it, then sit on the porch as the sun sets, laughing together while we scrape our way to the bottom of our icy bowls of heaven. Nothing beats making memories together over something so simple, yet so delicious!
Pineapple Granita recipes
Pineapple Granita
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple cut into pieces about 4 cups
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- Puree the pineapple, sugar and lime juice in a food processor until smooth.
- Pour into a shallow baking dish and place in the freezer until frozen, about 3 hours.
- When you are ready to serve the granita, remove from the freezer and cut into chunks using a fork.
- Place the pineapple chunks into a food processor and blend for about a minute until the granita is light and there are no more chunks.
- Garnish with mint leaves or raspberries and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Freezer-Only Pineapple Granita
To prepare the pineapple, begin by peeling, coring, and cutting the fresh fruit into small chunks. In a small saucepan, create a sugar syrup by combining granulated sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. In a blender or food processor, blend the pineapple chunks with lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Combine the pineapple puree with the cooled sugar syrup, stirring well. Transfer the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container, preferably metal or glass. Freeze for about 2 hours, then scrape and fluff the semi-frozen mixture with a fork every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it achieves a light, fluffy texture. Once the Pineapple Granita reaches the desired consistency, serve it in glasses or bowls, garnished with fresh mint leaves or a lime slice, for a refreshing tropical treat.
Tips for making Pineapple Granita
Serving Suggestions
My easy homemade pineapple granita is the ultimate light and refreshing summer treat. Its sweet tropical flavor pairs perfectly with lots of dishes for a fun twist.
I like to scoop the slushy pineapple ice into hollowed out oranges or grapefruits for a gorgeous fruit salad centerpiece. The sweet granita contrasts nicely with the citrusy segments. Or serve it in pretty glasses alternated with layers of vanilla yogurt and toasted coconut flakes for a yummy parfait.
Pineapple granita also makes an amazing topper for cakes and cupcakes. Drizzle the icy granules over fluffy coconut cake or frosty lemon cupcakes for some extra tang and texture. And it’s a shows topping topping for fruit tarts too!
For an awesome adult dessert, layer spoonfuls of the granita into champagne flutes, then top it off with a splash of rum or vodka. So festive and delicious! You could also blend it into boozy pina colada slushies for the ultimate beachy treat.
Cooking Tips
- Fresh Pineapple is Key: Use ripe, fresh pineapple for the best flavor. Canned pineapple won’t give you the same vibrant taste.
- Adjust Sugar to Taste: The sweetness of pineapples can vary, so adjust the sugar quantity to suit your preference. Taste the puree before freezing and add more sugar if needed.
- Don’t Skip the Lime: The lime juice and zest enhance the pineapple’s natural flavors and provide a delightful tanginess.
- Shallow Freezing Dish: Use a shallow, wide container for freezing. This allows the mixture to freeze evenly and facilitates the scraping process.
- Scrape and Fluff: Don’t forget to scrape and fluff the granita every 30 minutes during freezing. This step ensures the characteristic granular texture.
- Serve Chilled: Pineapple Granita is at its best when served chilled, not frozen solid. Aim for a fluffy, snow-like texture.
- Customize Your Garnishes: Experiment with garnishes and pairings to create a personalized Pineapple Granita experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pineapple Granita
- Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure it’s packed in its juice, not syrup.
- Can I make Pineapple Granita ahead of time for a party?Absolutely! Pineapple Granita is perfect for preparing in advance. Freeze it, fluff it, and keep it covered in the freezer until your guests arrive.
- What if I don’t have a food processor or blender?If you don’t have a food processor or blender, simply mash the pineapple chunks with a fork or potato masher for a chunkier texture.
- Can I add other fruits to the granita for variety?Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other tropical fruits like mango or passion fruit to create your own unique flavor combination.
- How do I store leftover Pineapple Granita?To store leftovers, transfer the granita to an airtight container and keep it in the freezer. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, then fluff it with a fork.
Conclusion
I'm Tracy F Hilton, a devoted culinary professional shaped by a mix of natural aptitude and refined skills from a top culinary school. In the dynamic kitchen environment, I'm a catalyst for seamless operations and timely, high-quality dish preparation. My culinary creations are a blend of art and skill, offering visually and gustatorily delightful experiences. A learner at heart, I'm continuously honing my craft, embracing new techniques, and culinary innovations. My positive, collaborative nature is amplified in fast-paced settings, showcasing my commitment to team efficiency and guest satisfaction. Each dish I present is a meticulous blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable dining experience that marries taste, aroma, and aesthetic appeal in perfect harmony. Join me on a gastronomic journey where each bite encapsulates a rich, evolving narrative of flavors and culinary artistry.