Chocolate Strawberry Granita

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Granita
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first tried making a granita at home, I was drawn in by the simplicity and the burst of flavors it promised. This Chocolate Strawberry Granita is a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the natural sweetness of strawberries. The process involves blending fresh strawberries, cocoa, and a bit of sweetness, then freezing it to create that refreshing, icy texture. I guarantee this frozen dessert will be a hit on any occasion, especially during warm days!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:02:30.714Z

As I dove into making this Chocolate Strawberry Granita, I was surprised by how easy and satisfying it was to create such a delectable dish. I started by picking ripe strawberries, knowing their sweetness would shine through in the granita. The combination of chocolate and strawberries gives an indulgent touch, making it a perfect dessert after any meal.

One key tip I discovered is to freeze the mixture until it is firm but not rock solid, about four hours, then scrape it with a fork to create those necessary icy flakes. This method worked wonders to achieve the texture I craved!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing blend of chocolate and strawberry flavors
Cool, icy texture perfect for hot summer days
Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients

      

The Magic of Blending

Blending is a pivotal step in making this Chocolate Strawberry Granita. When you combine the strawberries and cocoa powder, the goal is to achieve a smooth consistency. This ensures that every bite delivers a perfectly balanced flavor of chocolate and strawberry. Blend for about 30-45 seconds on high speed, but stop to scrape down the sides if needed. The mixture should be glossy and pourable, not too thick or chunky.

Using fresh strawberries is key to enhancing the flavor of the granita. Look for strawberries that are bright red and slightly firm. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen strawberries, but be mindful that they may yield a slightly thinner texture. If using frozen fruit, reduce the water in the recipe slightly since frozen strawberries often release extra moisture during blending.

Perfect Freezing Techniques

When freezing the mixture, choose a shallow dish to help it freeze evenly and quickly. A glass or metal baking dish is ideal, as it conducts cold better than plastic. Spread the mixture evenly to about half an inch in depth; this allows the granita to freeze faster and makes scraping easier. Aim to freeze it for a minimum of 4 hours, but check it after 2 hours. If it’s already firm, it's ready for scraping. The texture should be light and fluffy, not rock solid.

If you notice that your granita has frozen too hard, don’t fret. Simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scraping with a fork. The goal is to create flaky, icy shavings, not dense blocks. If your granita is too soft, it might need a longer freezing time but keep an eye on it to avoid over-freezing.

Ingredients

Gather these few ingredients to start your Chocolate Strawberry Granita.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

With these ingredients ready, let's proceed to the steps to make your granita.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Granita.

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, cocoa powder, sugar, water, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and well-combined.

Freeze the Mixture

Pour the blended mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Leave it for about 4 hours or until firm.

Scrape and Serve

Once frozen, use a fork to scrape the mixture into icy flakes. Serve immediately in bowls or glasses, garnished with a few fresh strawberries if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Granita!

Pro Tips

For best results, use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness. You can adjust the sugar based on your taste preference or try adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Strawberry Granita is not only delightful on its own but can also be elevated with various toppings. A dollop of whipped cream adds richness, while a sprinkle of finely chopped dark chocolate enhances the chocolate flavor. For a more refined presentation, serve it in elegant glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider pairing the granita with complementary flavors. For instance, a drizzle of balsamic reduction brings out the strawberries' natural sweetness while adding a sophisticated tang. You could also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a beautiful contrast of textures.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This granita is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made ahead of time. Store any leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer. If stored correctly, it should retain its texture and flavor for up to a week. To refresh it before serving, scrape it with a fork again to break up any icy clumps or hard bits.

For those wanting to prep in advance for gatherings, consider making multiple batches. Use different varieties of berries or mix-ins like mint or orange zest to create a colorful dessert display. Just remember to label each container with the flavor, ensuring your guests can choose their favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw them briefly before blending for better consistency.

→ How long will the granita last in the freezer?

The granita can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder with chocolate syrup if you prefer a sweeter option.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are vegan-friendly.