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Orange Sorbet in Orange Halves Recipe

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This refreshing Orange Sorbet recipe offers a delightful citrusy treat made with fresh navel oranges, simple syrup, lemon juice, orange zest, and rich coconut milk. Perfectly creamy and naturally vibrant, this sorbet is a great dairy-free dessert option that can be made with or without an ice cream maker, and even adapted for the Ninja CREAMi. Served in hollowed-out orange skins, it’s a stunning presentation for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a light, fruity dessert.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fruit and Juice

  • 4 large navel oranges
  • 1 to 2 additional oranges (for extra juice, if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

Syrup and Dairy Alternative

  • ¾ cup simple syrup
  • 13 ounces full-fat coconut milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oranges: Slice the tops off the oranges and carefully scoop out the fruit flesh with a spoon, taking care not to tear the peel. Reserve all the fruit flesh and any juice that escapes during this process. Place the hollowed-out orange skins in the freezer to firm up while you work on the sorbet.
  2. Extract Juice: Press the orange pulp using a juicer or squeeze through cheesecloth to collect about 1 ½ cups of juice. You may need to juice 1 to 2 additional oranges depending on yield.
  3. Combine Sorbet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, simple syrup, lemon juice, orange zest, and full-fat coconut milk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  4. Make Sorbet (Using Ice Cream Maker): Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  5. Make Sorbet (Without Ice Cream Maker): Place the bowl with the orange mixture in the freezer and stir every hour to break up ice crystals until it reaches a soft-serve sorbet texture.
  6. Make Sorbet (Using Ninja CREAMi): Pour the mixture into a Ninja CREAMi pint up to the max fill line. Freeze flat for 24 hours. Spin on the sorbet setting. If the texture is crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice and re-spin. Afterwards, scoop the sorbet into the frozen orange halves.
  7. Fill the Orange Skins: Spoon the sorbet into the chilled and firm orange skins, mounding it slightly above the top for presentation.
  8. Freeze Final Dessert: Freeze the filled orange skins for at least 4 hours or until firm before serving. This ensures the sorbet sets perfectly and is easy to scoop.

Notes

  • Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle tropical flavor; avoid light coconut milk for best texture.
  • If you do not have an ice cream maker, stirring regularly while freezing helps achieve a smooth sorbet texture.
  • The hollowed orange skins make a beautiful natural serving bowl and add to the citrus aroma.
  • Simple syrup can be adjusted for sweetness based on orange sweetness and personal preference.
  • For extra flavor, zest can be added on top as a garnish just before serving.
  • The sorbet can be stored in a covered container in the freezer for up to one week.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Freezing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan