Peach Sherbet is a creamy, velvety frozen dessert that captures the essence of ripe, juicy peaches. Made with just two ingredients—fresh peaches and sweetened condensed milk—this no-churn recipe is both simple and delightful. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you crave something sweet and refreshing without the need for an ice cream maker. The natural sweetness of the peaches combined with the richness of condensed milk creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

5–6 medium to large ripe peaches
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

Directions

Peel the peaches over a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any juices.
Slice the peaches and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Freeze the peach slices (along with any collected juice) for about 4 hours, or until solid.
Place the frozen peaches and sweetened condensed milk into a high-powered blender.
Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, soft-serve consistency.
Serve immediately for a soft texture, or transfer to an airtight container and freeze for a firmer consistency.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 318 kcal
Total Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 0.3mg
Sodium: 99mg
Total Carbohydrates: 76g
Dietary Fiber: 11g
Sugars: 63g
Protein: 7g
Vitamin A: 2448 IU
Vitamin C: 31mg
Calcium: 33mg
Iron: 3mg

The History and Popularity of Sherbet

Sherbet has been enjoyed for centuries and has evolved into a popular frozen treat around the world. Historically, sherbets were made with fruit, water, and sugar, creating a light and refreshing beverage. Over time, sherbet began to take on a creamier texture by incorporating dairy products, such as milk or cream, which transformed it into the frozen dessert we recognize today.

In the United States, sherbet became widely known in the 19th and early 20th centuries, often served as a palate cleanser during formal meals or as a refreshing dessert for warm-weather gatherings. The appeal of sherbet lies in its balance between the tartness of fruit and the creamy texture that comes from adding milk or cream, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter alternative to heavier ice cream.

Why Peach Sherbet?

Peach sherbet is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that can be made with minimal ingredients and effort. Here are some reasons why peach sherbet stands out:

Simplicity: Unlike ice cream, which requires an ice cream maker and several steps of churning, peach sherbet is incredibly simple to make. All you need are ripe peaches and sweetened condensed milk, along with a blender or food processor to combine the ingredients. This makes peach sherbet an ideal option for those who want a homemade dessert without the complexity of traditional ice cream-making.
Light and Refreshing: Ice cream can sometimes feel heavy, especially during the hot summer months. Peach sherbet, on the other hand, has a lighter, refreshing texture that makes it perfect for warm weather. The fruit-based nature of sherbet gives it a slightly tangy flavor, while the sweetened condensed milk provides just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess.
Natural Ingredients: One of the best aspects of making your own peach sherbet is the ability to control the ingredients. By using fresh peaches and sweetened condensed milk, you avoid artificial flavors and preservatives that are often found in store-bought frozen desserts. The natural sweetness of the peaches shines through, and you can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less condensed milk.
Customization: While the classic peach sherbet recipe is delicious on its own, it’s easy to get creative with it. You can add other fruits, such as berries, to the mix for a twist on the flavor. You could also mix in a touch of vanilla extract or lemon juice to enhance the fruitiness. The beauty of peach sherbet lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it as simple or as complex as you desire.
Healthier Alternative to Ice Cream: While peach sherbet is still a dessert, it can be considered a slightly healthier option compared to traditional ice cream. Since sherbet typically contains less cream than ice cream, it has a lower fat content, making it a good choice for those who want a lighter, lower-fat frozen dessert. Plus, the fresh fruit adds fiber and essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health.

Choosing the Right Peaches

The key to making the perfect peach sherbet is using ripe, high-quality peaches. The sweetness and flavor of the peaches will determine the overall taste of your sherbet. Here are some tips for selecting the best peaches:

Look for ripe, firm peaches: Peaches should be firm but slightly soft to the touch. They should have a sweet fragrance, and their skin should be free of blemishes or wrinkles.
Pick peaches with a deep color: Look for peaches with a rich, golden color. The deeper the color, the sweeter the peach is likely to be.
Fresh is best: If possible, use fresh, in-season peaches for the best flavor. When peaches are in season, they are typically at their sweetest and juiciest, which will enhance the flavor of your sherbet.

If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use frozen peaches, but fresh peaches tend to yield a better texture and flavor for this recipe.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Sherbet

While store-bought sherbet and ice cream are convenient, there are several benefits to making your own frozen treats at home. Here are a few reasons to consider making peach sherbet from scratch:

No Artificial Additives: Many commercial frozen desserts contain artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives. When you make peach sherbet at home, you can control what goes into it, ensuring that it’s made with natural, whole ingredients.
Control Over Sweetness: By using sweetened condensed milk, you can control the level of sweetness in your peach sherbet. Store-bought versions are often overly sweet, but with homemade sherbet, you can adjust the sugar content to suit your preferences.
Customization: As mentioned earlier, making your own peach sherbet allows you to get creative with flavors and add-ins. Whether you want to incorporate other fruits, spices, or extracts, homemade peach sherbet can be tailored to your tastes.
Cost-Effective: Making peach sherbet at home is often more affordable than buying it from the store. With just a few ingredients, you can make a large batch of peach sherbet for a fraction of the cost of pre-packaged versions.

Creative Variations of Peach Sherbet

While the basic peach sherbet recipe is fantastic on its own, you can experiment with different flavors and textures to elevate it even further. Here are some ideas for creative variations:

Peach and Berry Sherbet: Add a mix of strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries to your peach sherbet for a colorful, berry-infused version. The tartness of the berries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches.
Peach-Lime Sherbet: For a zesty twist, try adding a bit of fresh lime juice or zest to the peach mixture. The citrus will enhance the natural peach flavor and give the sherbet a refreshing kick.
Peach-Mango Sherbet: For an exotic flavor combination, blend in some fresh mango along with the peaches. The tropical sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the peaches for a smooth and creamy sherbet.
Peach Ice Cream: If you prefer a richer, creamier texture, you can turn your peach sherbet into peach ice cream by adding heavy cream and churning the mixture in an ice cream maker. This will give the sherbet a denser, ice cream-like consistency.

Serving and Storing Peach Sherbet

Peach sherbet is best served straight from the freezer, but it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. To serve, scoop the sherbet into bowls or cones, and garnish with fresh peach slices or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. It’s also delicious served alongside other summer desserts like fruit tarts or lemon cakes.

Conclusion

Peach sherbet is the ultimate summer dessert: refreshing, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, fruit-packed treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a light dessert after a meal, a cool treat on a hot day, or a special dish for a gathering, peach sherbet is sure to impress. With its natural sweetness, creamy texture, and versatility, it’s a frozen dessert that everyone can enjoy.

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