Chocolate Strawberry Granita

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Granita
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and halved; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

I love making Chocolate Strawberry Granita as a refreshing treat during the warm months. This dessert combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the light, fruity essence of strawberries, creating a delightful contrast. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, as it relies on just a few quality ingredients and a bit of patience while it freezes. Each spoonful is like a mini-vacation, with a smooth texture that melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting more. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:54:41.950Z

During one hot summer, I experimented with a variety of frozen treats and stumbled upon the delightful combination of chocolate and strawberries. I found that using ripe, in-season strawberries enhances the fruity flavor, making the granita refreshing and indulgent all at once. The key to a perfect granita is to mix the ingredients until smooth before placing them in the freezer.

After several trials, I discovered that scraping the granita after every hour makes it fluffier and prevents icy clumps. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the mixture transform into a slushy delight, and serving it in chilled glasses adds a touch of elegance. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        You'll Love This Granita Because...
        The perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries
A refreshing, icy treat that cools you down in summer
A simple recipe with minimal ingredients that’s easy to make

      

The Role of Ingredients

In this recipe, the combination of ripe strawberries and cocoa powder is essential for achieving a balance of sweetness and richness. The strawberries add natural sweetness and a fruity flavor that lightens the intense chocolate notes. It's crucial to select ripe strawberries for the best flavor, as under-ripe berries can result in a tart granita that overwhelms the chocolate. For an added twist, you can experiment with other berries such as raspberries or blackberries, but adjust the sugar accordingly based on their sweetness.

Cocoa powder is a key player in this recipe. Opting for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder not only enhances the depth of flavor but also ensures a smoother texture. If you want a milkier chocolate note, try substituting part of the cocoa powder with unsweetened cocoa or chocolate syrup, but remember that it may affect the granita's texture and freezing properties.

Granulated sugar is not just for sweetness; it also plays a vital role in the texture of your granita. Sugar lowers the freezing point of water, which helps achieve that light, fluffy consistency. If you're conscious about sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or Stevia, but do check conversion ratios since they can differ significantly from granulated sugar.

Mastering the Freezing Technique

The freezing process is where granita gets its signature snow-like texture, and it's important to follow the timing closely. After the initial freeze, scraping the mixture with a fork every hour is essential. This aeration creates those delightful fluffy crystals; skipping this step can leave you with a solid block of ice. When scraping, focus on the edges where the mixture tends to freeze faster. This will ensure even distribution and a consistent texture throughout the dish.

If you find that your granita is too hard to scrape after freezing, it might need a little extra time outside the freezer to soften. Aim for about 5-10 minutes at room temperature before attempting to fluff it again. On the other hand, if the granita becomes too soft, simply pop it back into the freezer briefly. Consistency is key for that perfect spoonful to melt in your mouth.

For best results, consider using a shallow dish for freezing. This increases surface area, allowing the mixture to freeze more evenly and quicker. A glass or metal dish works well here; metal will chill the mixture faster due to its conductivity, while glass allows you to see the freezing progress, which can be quite satisfying!

Ingredients

For the Granita

2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare Strawberry Mixture

In a blender, combine the strawberries, cocoa powder, sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and fully combined.

First Freeze

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Freeze for 1 hour.

Scrape and Freeze Again

After one hour, use a fork to scrape the mixture to create a fluffy texture. Return to the freezer and repeat scraping every hour for about 3 hours.

Serve

Once the granita is fluffy and frozen, spoon it into serving glasses and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice to the strawberry mixture before blending, and garnish with fresh mint leaves when serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Chocolate Strawberry Granita is an opportunity to elevate its presentation. You can layer it in dessert glasses with whipped cream or serve it alongside fresh strawberries for a beautiful contrast. Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce or balsamic reduction over the top adds a touch of elegance and an extra flavor dimension that pairs wonderfully with both chocolate and strawberry.

For those hot summer days, consider turning your granita into a refreshing cocktail by adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, like vodka or rum, right before serving. This makes for a delightful adult treat perfect for gatherings. If you'd prefer a non-alcoholic option, adding a splash of sparkling water prior to serving can give it a refreshing fizz.

Make your presentation vibrant by garnishing with mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. A sprig of mint not only enhances the visual appeal but provides a refreshing aroma that complements the dessert beautifully.

Storing Your Granita

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Chocolate Strawberry Granita is straightforward. Transfer any uneaten granita to an airtight container, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to a week. Be sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing with the lid to minimize ice crystals from forming, which can affect texture.

When you're ready to serve the stored granita again, simply take it out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This softening period makes it easier to scrape back into a fluffy texture. If you notice it has frozen too solidly, use a fork to break up the mixture before proceeding with scraping.

For make-ahead enthusiasts, granita is an excellent dessert to prepare in advance. Prepare it a day ahead, allowing it to freeze overnight. This not only saves time on the day of serving but also ensures the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in a suitable container, as explained, to maintain its freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh strawberries will provide a brighter flavor.

→ How long can I store the granita?

You can store the granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.

→ Can I make this granita ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just make sure to scrape it before serving to get that perfect fluffy texture.

→ What can I serve with the granita?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.