Italian Ice

First made in the country of its name, Italian ice is a refreshing non-dairy dessert made from water and fruit extracts, syrups or puree. Easy to make at home, Italian ice requires no special appliances, but must be broken up or scraped every few hours until it reaches the desired icy consistency. Since it takes several hours to freeze, plan in advance if you'd like to serve it to guests.

Fast Facts

1. Water ice is the American version of Italian ice
2. Italian ice layered with ice cream is a Parfait
3. Granita is Italian ice from Sicily
4. Similar to snow cones, granita, sorbet
5. Usually made with extracts, syrups or concentrates rather than whole fruit
6. Pair two flavors for a more colorful dessert
7. Other ingredients: Lemon juice, sugar, crushed ice

Italian Ice Flavors

Almost any fruit flavor can be adapted into Italian ice:

1. Raspberry
2. Strawberry
3. Orange
4. Plum
5. Peach
6. Mango
7. Lemon

Sometimes herbs or spices are added to give an accent flavor:

1. Basil
2. Ginger
3. Mint

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