
Sorbet and granita are frozen desserts made from a simple base of fruit juice, puree, or flavored syrup, often sweetened with sugar and sometimes enhanced with a touch of acid like lemon juice. Sorbet is churned for a smooth, fine texture, while granita is frozen and scraped with a fork to create coarse, crystalline flakes. Both are classic, refreshing treats originating from Italy and the broader Mediterranean region.
This base is typically high in carbohydrates from natural fruit sugars and added sweeteners, with negligible fat and protein. A standard serving provides quick energy, along with some vitamins and antioxidants from the fruit, and generally ranges from 100 to 200 calories.
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 28 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 40 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 8 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 10 mg |
| Manganese | 0.1 mg |
| Copper | 0.05 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, these desserts are a brilliant solution for enjoying intense fruit flavors in hot climates, with granita di caffè in Sicily being a beloved breakfast staple. Nutritionally, they offer a lighter, dairy-free alternative to ice cream, allowing the pure taste and nutrients of fruit to shine without added fats.