Chocolate Strawberry Granita

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Granita
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups water

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Granita, especially during the warmer months when I crave something refreshing yet indulgent. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy strawberries, creating a dessert that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. I find that this icy treat captures the essence of summer while satisfying my sweet tooth. Plus, it's a fun way to enjoy seasonal fruits, and I look forward to sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:34:35.201Z

When I first tried making granita, I was amazed by how effortless it was. I combined chocolate and strawberries to create a dessert that not only looks stunning but also tastes divine. The key is to choose ripe strawberries for their natural sweetness, which contrasts perfectly with the dark chocolate. I remember the first time I served this; my guests were dazzled.

As you prepare this granita, make sure to stir it every 30 minutes as it freezes. This helps achieve the perfect texture—fluffy and light, not solid ice. The moment you scoop it into a bowl and watch it glisten, you’ll know you’ve made something special. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Refreshing texture that is perfect for hot days
Healthy and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Chocolate Strawberry Granita, the quality of your strawberries will heavily influence the final flavor of the dessert. Opt for ripe, in-season strawberries for the best results. Their natural sweetness will enhance the overall taste, reducing the need for added sugar. I recommend using organic strawberries if possible, as they tend to have a more robust flavor profile, which beautifully balances the earthy chocolate notes.

In addition to strawberries, using high-quality cocoa powder is crucial. Look for unsweetened cocoa powders that are labeled as Dutch-processed; they tend to have a smoother, richer flavor that pairs seamlessly with the tartness of the strawberries. Avoid using sweetened cocoa mixtures, as they can alter the intended sweetness of your granita.

Mastering the Freezing Process

Achieving the perfect texture for your granita relies on stirring the mixture regularly during the freezing process. After the initial 30 minutes, check the mixture for ice crystals; it should have a slushy consistency but not be completely solid. Using a fork to stir breaks down any clumps, ensuring a fluffy final product. If you notice that it isn’t freezing properly, consider adjusting your freezer temperature or spreading the granita into a wider shallow dish to expedite the freezing.

Another key tip is to avoid over-blending the strawberry mixture initially, as this can introduce too much air and result in a denser granita rather than the light, airy texture we want. Aim for a smooth blend without being overly frothy, which can impact the final mouthfeel.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes time to serve your granita, think about garnishing it with something that complements its flavors. Fresh mint leaves can offer a refreshing contrast, while chocolate shavings can add a touch of elegance. You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the top for those who crave extra richness.

For variations, consider introducing other fruits along with strawberries. Raspberries or cherries can provide a delightful twist, and you could even replace half the strawberries with a different berry. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try stirring in a splash of coconut milk right before freezing for a creamier texture, reminiscent of a sorbet.

Ingredients

For the Granita

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups water

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Base

In a blender, combine fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove seeds.

Mix the Chocolate

In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and water until smooth. Gradually whisk in the strawberry mixture until well combined.

Freeze the Mixture

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. After 30 minutes, stir with a fork to break up ice crystals. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, or until the granita is fluffy.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the granita into serving dishes and garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings if desired. Enjoy your refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

Storage Tips

Chocolate Strawberry Granita is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the freezer if needed. To keep it from becoming too icy and hard, transfer the granita to an airtight container after the initial freezing steps but before serving. This helps maintain the texture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply scrape the top with a fork to fluff it up rather than letting it thaw completely, as it may lose its texture.

If you anticipate leftovers, limit the amount of sweetener used in your initial mixture; this allows the granita to retain its playful sweetness even after freezing. After a few days, you might notice the granita becoming slightly more frozen than fluffy, and lightly re-scraping can rejuvenate its texture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up the Chocolate Strawberry Granita recipe is quite simple! Just maintain the same proportions of strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, cocoa powder, and water, ensuring that all ingredients are mixed thoroughly. For larger gatherings, consider making the granita a day in advance—just be sure to stir it periodically as it freezes for optimal texture.

If you prefer to scale down for a quick treat, you can easily halve the recipe. A smaller quantity may freeze faster, so keep an eye on it after the first 20 minutes to check for the right consistency, adjusting stirring times accordingly. This adaptability makes it a fantastic addition to any summer gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them before blending.

→ How long does this granita last in the freezer?

It can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer if stored in an airtight container.

→ Is there a way to make this granita vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses no dairy. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly.

→ What is the best way to scoop granita?

Use a fork to fluff the granita before scooping, which can help achieve a better texture.