1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet

1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 11 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

The 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet is a refreshing and delightful dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh blackberries with the creamy texture of buttermilk. This simple yet sophisticated recipe is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day or adding an elegant touch to any meal. With its vibrant color and irresistible flavor, this sherbet is sure to impress both family and friends.

History

The tradition of making sherbet, which can be traced back to the Middle East in the early centuries, has evolved over time. Originally a sweetened fruit drink, it has transformed into the frozen dessert we know today. The 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet recipe is a modern take on this ancient delicacy, combining traditional techniques with contemporary flavors. Blackberries, with their rich history of use in food and medicine, add a depth of flavor and color to the sherbet, making it a unique and enjoyable treat.

Ingredients

4 cups of fresh blackberries
2 cups of sugar
2 cups of buttermilk
Garnish: fresh blackberries

How to prepare

In a bowl, stir together 4 cups of blackberries and sugar. Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes.
Using a food processor or blender, process the blackberry mixture until smooth, making sure to scrape down the sides.
Pour the mixture through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a 9-inch square pan, discarding any solids. Stir in the buttermilk.
Cover the pan and freeze it for 8 hours.
Break the frozen mixture into chunks and place them in a bowl. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth.
Return the mixture to the pan, cover it, and freeze for an additional 3 hours or until firm.
Garnish, if desired.
If fresh blackberries are not available, you can use 2 (14 oz / 397 g) packages of thawed frozen blackberries as a substitute.

Kitchen Express

Double the ingredient amounts and combine the blackberry juice and buttermilk in the freezer container of a 4 qt (3.78 liter) electric freezer.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to freeze the mixture.
Pack the freezer with additional ice and rock salt, and let it stand for 1 hour before serving.

Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with coconut milk or almond milk yogurt. To reduce the sugar content, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the sherbet's flavor, providing a nice balance to the sweetness of the blackberries.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with coconut milk or almond milk. To reduce the sugar content, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the blackberries' tartness, providing a more complex flavor profile.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with coconut milk or almond milk. To reduce the sugar content, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Adding a splash of lemon juice or zest can enhance the sherbet's flavor, providing a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the blackberries.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best texture and flavor for your 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet, use ripe, fresh blackberries. If you're using frozen blackberries, make sure they are thoroughly thawed before processing. For a smoother sherbet, press the pureed blackberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds. To prevent ice crystals from forming, make sure to cover the sherbet tightly while it freezes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet in chilled bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh blackberries and a sprig of mint for a touch of color and freshness. This sherbet is perfect as a standalone dessert or can be paired with light cakes or cookies for a more indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to achieving the perfect texture for your sherbet is the freezing process. Freezing the mixture in stages and breaking it up before the final freeze helps create a smooth, creamy consistency. Using a food processor or blender to puree the blackberries ensures a uniform texture and color.

Ingredient Substitutions

If blackberries are not available, raspberries or strawberries make excellent substitutes. For a sugar-free version, consider using a sugar substitute that is suitable for freezing. If buttermilk is not on hand, yogurt thinned with a little milk can be used as an alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet can be made up to a week in advance. After the final freeze, transfer the sherbet to an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture. Let the sherbet sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make scooping easier.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the sherbet in wine glasses or dessert bowls. Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers. Drizzle with a berry coulis or honey for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

The tangy and sweet flavors of the 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet pair beautifully with sparkling wines or champagne, making it an excellent choice for special occasions. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a sparkling water infused with fresh berries and mint.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the sherbet in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. There is no need to reheat the sherbet, but if it becomes too hard in the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet contains approximately 200 calories. The majority of these calories come from the sugars, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a dessert. Enjoying this sherbet in moderation can fit into a balanced diet without compromising your health goals.

Carbohydrates

A serving of 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the natural sugars in the blackberries and the added sugar. This dessert is a source of quick energy, making it a sweet treat that can also give you a little boost.

Fats

This blackberry sherbet is low in fats, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of fat. The minimal fat content comes from the buttermilk, which adds a creamy texture without significantly increasing the fat content. This makes the sherbet a lighter alternative to traditional ice cream.

Proteins

Each serving of the 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet contains about 2 grams of protein. The protein in this dessert comes primarily from the buttermilk. While not a high-protein food, this sherbet can be a part of a balanced diet, providing a refreshing option for dessert.

Vitamins and minerals

Blackberries are a rich source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and manganese. A serving of this sherbet can provide a good amount of these nutrients, contributing to your daily dietary needs. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports the immune system, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in this recipe is dairy, due to the use of buttermilk. Individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance should exercise caution. The recipe is free from nuts, eggs, and gluten, making it suitable for those with these common allergies.

Summary

The 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet is a delightful dessert that offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy texture. It is low in fats and calories, making it a lighter alternative to many other desserts. Rich in vitamins and minerals from the blackberries, it provides nutritional benefits while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Summary

The 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of blackberries with the creamy texture of buttermilk. Easy to make and versatile, this sherbet is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners. With its low fat and calorie content, it offers a guilt-free indulgence that can be enjoyed by everyone.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I had invited my dear friend Margaret over for afternoon tea. As we sat in my cozy kitchen sipping on some iced tea, Margaret pulled out a small, weathered notebook from her bag.

"I have a special treat for you today, my dear," Margaret said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "I recently came across a recipe for 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet that I think you will absolutely love."

I leaned in closer, curiosity piqued. Margaret had always been a fantastic cook, and I knew that anything she recommended was sure to be delicious. She opened the notebook and began to read out the ingredients and instructions for the sherbet.

"First, you will need one cup of fresh blackberries, two cups of sugar, and three cups of heavy cream," Margaret recited. "Simply blend the blackberries and sugar together until smooth, then mix in the heavy cream. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for a few hours until firm. It's as easy as 1-2-3!"

I was amazed by the simplicity of the recipe. It sounded so decadent and refreshing, perfect for a hot summer day. Margaret must have noticed the excitement in my eyes because she immediately suggested we make it together.

And so, we set to work in my kitchen, gathering the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. The scent of ripe blackberries filled the air as we blended them with sugar, creating a vibrant purple puree. The addition of the velvety cream transformed the mixture into a luscious sherbet base that promised to be incredibly indulgent.

As we poured the mixture into a dish and popped it into the freezer, Margaret regaled me with the story of how she had stumbled upon the recipe. She had been visiting a quaint little farmer's market in the countryside when an elderly lady selling fresh produce had handed her a tattered recipe card.

"It was written in beautiful cursive handwriting, with detailed instructions on how to make the most delicious blackberry sherbet," Margaret reminisced. "I knew I had to try it, and I'm so glad I did. It has become a staple in my summer dessert repertoire."

We eagerly anticipated the sherbet's completion, checking on it every so often to see if it had set. Finally, after a few hours of anticipation, we scooped out generous portions of the creamy, fruity dessert into chilled bowls.

The first bite was pure bliss. The blackberries were sweet and tangy, bursting with flavor, perfectly complemented by the richness of the cream. The sherbet was light and refreshing, a true delight for the senses. Margaret and I shared a moment of pure joy as we savored each spoonful, marveling at the magic of such a simple recipe.

From that day on, 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet became a beloved recipe in my collection. I made it countless times for family gatherings, picnics, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from all who tried it. It was a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that memorable day with Margaret and the discovery of this delightful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures and friendships that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express love and creativity, and this recipe embodies everything I cherish about the art of food.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a quick and delicious dessert that will impress your guests and warm your heart, look no further than 1-2-3 Blackberry Sherbet. It may be just three simple ingredients, but the joy it brings is immeasurable. Cheers to good food, good friends, and the simple pleasures that make life so sweet.