All summer long, I want something fresh and cold, and frozen desserts just win every time. Italian ice is a classic dessert that was created in the United States by Italian immigrants but it was likely inspired by Sicilian granita. (This article from Saveur is an amazing deep dive into Sicily’s contributions to the world of ice cream.)
American Italian ice is smoother and thicker than granita, so it’s often more similar to sorbet and ice cream. We’re not talking snow cones here, we’re talking dairy-free, fruit-forward concoctions that just hit the spot. Every. Time.
Ninja CREAMi | Kitchen Towel
This recipe features my trusty Ninja CREAMi (not sponsored, it’s just one of my favorite gadgets). The appliance is one of my kitchen all-starsâit can turn almost anything into a creamy, frozen treat, and it takes almost no active time at all. I’ve made so many things in the CREAMi (like these three concoctions), and they all turn out tasty. The high-powered blades create this amazing texture that goes beyond a frozen drink or granita, it’s just so smooth and rich…you gotta take my word for it and just try it.
Shop the Kitchen
When I was thinking of an Italian ice flavor profile to make, I instantly wanted to do something with coconut and pineapple together. It’s just instant tropics. I combine those into a virgin Piña Colada-inspired mixture with some sweet and tart flavors, and it becomes so refreshing really any time of year, but especially in the summer.
Ice Cream Bowls | Chris’s Shirt (similar) | Chris’s Shorts | Backyard Sources
You only need four ingredients to make this Piña Colada-style Italian ice, and trust me, you’ll want to make a couple batches. So plan ahead and give this recipe a try the next time you want a cooling treat that is fresh, sweet, tart and smooth.
