Lemon Italian Ice Recipe - Easy Summer Treat
This lemon Italian ice is super refreshing and perfect for hot days. You can go all out with lemon zest, lemon juice, limoncello if you have it, or even toss in some lemon slices for extra zing. It’s simple, icy, and doesn’t require fancy equipment.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Freezer-safe container
- Measuring cups
- Zester or grater
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar can adjust sweetness later
- 1 cup water room temperature works fine
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice about 3-4 lemons, but depends on size
- 1 tbsp lemon zest optional but adds nice punch
- 2 tbsp limoncello optional, adds boozy lemon flavor
- a few slices fresh lemon slices for garnish or stirring in
Instructions
- Combine sugar and water in a bowl. Whisk until sugar is mostly dissolved but it’s okay if some grains remain.
- Add lemon juice and lemon zest to the sugar water. Stir well. This part smells so fresh, sometimes I end up just sniffing the bowl for a minute.
- Stir in limoncello if you’re using it. It’s not necessary but gives a little something extra that’s nice for grown-up versions.
- Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container. Pop it in the freezer.
- Every 30 minutes, scrape the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals. Repeat this 3-4 times until it’s all fluffy and icy. If you forget, it still turns out okay but scraping helps texture.
- Serve with lemon slices on top or stirred in. It’s a nice touch and looks pretty casual.
Notes
If you want more lemon punch, add extra zest or a splash more juice but keep an eye on sweetness. Also, limoncello can be swapped with a little lemon extract if that’s what’s around. Store leftovers covered in the freezer and it keeps well for a few days but best fresh.