Have you seen Inside Out yet? Okay, I know it's a kids movie, but had so much fun watching it when I took my daughter. I maaaaaaaayyyyyyyy have shed a couple of tears and had to discretely wipe them away before the mom right behind me noticed. We went because N was going stir crazy without any electricity in the house for four days. Nothing really seemed to help, so I thought a trip to the movies would help take her mind off it. Luckily, after we got out the movies, we found out the power was back, so it was perfect. (Also, that was when gay marriage was legalized, so it was a triply good day!) I love Disney/Pixar movies because they are great to watch as a family because they always leave plenty humor and things adults can relate to without our kids asking too many questions about it. And the story lines are always so good. I highly recommend going out to watch it if you haven't already.
Granitas are a new love for me. I only started eating them last year when it seemed as though everyone and their mom was making granitas. Seriously, I don't know where I've been this whole time. Snow cones are good and all, but granitas blow them out of the water because they are nothing but flavor. And so easy to make.
Since I made a lot of homemade overnight limoncello, I knew I wanted to use some in a frozen treat and I thought a granita would be the perfect way to do that. We happened to have about 5lbs of cherries on our hands, so pairing them together to make a cherry limoncello granita was a natural - and delicious- decision to make.
Cherry Limoncello Granita
Ingredients
- 1lbs pitted and sliced cherries
- ⅔ cup water, divided
- ¼ - ½ cup sugar
- ⅔ cups limoncello
Instructions
- Blend the cherries until they are completely pureed (You may push the cherries through a strainer to remove the skin, but I liked that added texture). Set aside.
- Heat ⅓ of the water and the sugar together and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Stir into the cherry puree along with the limoncello.
- Pour into a 9 x 13 baking dish and place in the freezer. Take out the granita every half and hour to rake the mixture with a fork. Repeat until it is completely frozen - about four hours.
Kim (Feed Me, Seymour) says
I cry just THINKING about Inside Out... I can't go see it in theaters, I know I'll be a blubbery mess! I'll just have to make a giant batch of this granita to console me!
Amanda says
You just have to go see it though! It's so good. I really want to go see it again!
Christie says
I am taking my daughter to see the movie tomorrow. I hope it isn't too sad, she won't like that. I on the other hand, love this granita especially with the limoncello
Amanda says
It's not too sad, but does have its moments. It really touches on the development and acknowledging of your emotions and not being afraid to feel them. My daughter didn't seem as fazed by the sad parts as much as I was!
Kacey @ The Cookie Writer says
I am so excited for that movie! It looks really cute. I have never made (or had) granita, but it looks super easy! Cannot wait to try it!
Julia says
This looks like such a fun summer treat! I love that vibrant color too.
Beeta @ Mon Petit Four says
Great idea, Amanda! Cherry and limoncello sound like a perfect combo. P.S. I love Pixar movies too; you're right, they're always humorous for both kids and adults 😉 Glad your power is back!!
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet says
Booze granita is always a great idea! Love the color too!
Barrett @dirtylaundrykitchen.com says
I love cherry uses and I bet this is great for subprime cherries. Can't wait to try it.
Amanda says
Yes, it is a great way to use up all your cherries. i am sure you will love it!
Sam @ SugarSpunRun says
Ah I've been dying to see that movie!
This granita sounds amazing, I love the flavor combination!
Amy | Club Narwhal says
Granita for the win!!! This looks like the PERFECT treat on a sizzling summer day 🙂 I love that gorgeous color, too!
Amanda says
Thank you! I can't get enough of it. Even though it is really rainy where I am now, it really picks me up when I need it!
Anu-My Ginger Garlic Kitchen says
What a beautiful and vibrant looking cherry granita! Love all the awesome flavors too! 🙂
Joanne Bruno says
I haven't seen it yet, but I SO want to! Especially after your rave review. Think I could sneak some granita in for an adult treat?!