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– 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1. **Prepare the Strawberries:**
– Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and hulls, then halve the strawberries.
2. **Macerate the Strawberries:**
– Place the halved strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle them with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Toss gently to coat the strawberries in sugar. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to macerate. This process will draw out the juices from the strawberries and enhance their flavor.
3. **Puree the Strawberries:**
– After macerating, transfer the strawberries along with any juices to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
4. **Make the Strawberry Base:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the pureed strawberries with the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
5. **Add Milk, Cream, and Vanilla:**
– Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract into the strawberry mixture. Mix until well combined.
6. **Chill the Mixture:**
– Cover the bowl and refrigerate the strawberry mixture for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. Chilling the mixture will help it freeze properly in the ice cream maker.
7. **Churn the Sherbet:**
– Once chilled, pour the strawberry mixture into the bowl of an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, or until the sherbet reaches a thick and creamy consistency.
8. **Transfer and Freeze:**
– Transfer the churned strawberry sherbet into a freezer-safe container. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, ensuring it’s airtight, and place it in the freezer to firm up for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely frozen.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the strawberry sherbet is frozen, scoop it into bowls or cones and serve it immediately as a refreshing treat on its own. You can also garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves if desired.
Enjoy the vibrant and fruity flavor of this homemade Strawberry Sherbet, perfect for cooling down on a hot day or as a delightful dessert option!