Homemade Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe for a Refreshing Lime Sorbet
Transport yourself back to cherished childhood memories with this remarkably accurate copycat recipe for Baskin Robbins’ iconic Daiquiri Ice. This homemade version perfectly captures the vibrant, refreshing lime flavor and its uniquely light, sorbet-like texture. Say goodbye to the disappointment of a closed Baskin Robbins or the long drive to the nearest location; now you can effortlessly recreate this beloved mint-green frozen treat right in your own kitchen. Our detailed guide ensures that you achieve that distinctive balance of sweet and tangy citrus, offering a truly nostalgic experience that tastes incredibly close to the original. Prepare to delight your taste buds with this simple yet sensational recipe, perfect for any occasion when a craving for this classic strikes.
For many, the question “What’s your favorite ice cream?” often elicits responses like “chocolate fudge brownie” or “classic vanilla bean.” But for a select few, myself included, the answer has always been unmistakably different: Baskin Robbins’ Daiquiri Ice. This unique, zingy sorbet holds a special place in my heart, a nostalgic flavor that transcends the typical creamy indulgence of ice cream. Its bright, tart lime profile and airy texture set it apart, making it an unforgettable favorite.
My journey to perfecting this copycat Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice recipe began years ago, in 2014, out of a genuine sense of loss. All the Baskin Robbins 31 Flavors locations in the Omaha area had closed their doors, leaving a void where my favorite frozen treat once stood. The sadness was real, and the craving persistent. It was a culinary mission born of necessity – to bring that beloved mint-green delight back into my life. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, unable to find this yummy treat where you live, or simply miss its distinctive taste, you absolutely must try this recipe. After countless trials and adjustments, I can confidently say this homemade version tastes just like the real thing, allowing you to relive those precious memories spoonful after spoonful.
The Allure of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice: A Unique Frozen Treat
For decades, Baskin Robbins’ Daiquiri Ice has held a distinctive place on its iconic 31 Flavors menu. Far from a conventional ice cream, this refreshing dessert captivates with its striking mint-green hue and bold, zesty lime flavor. What truly sets it apart is its unique consistency: a light, icy sorbet rather than the rich, creamy texture typically associated with ice cream. This vibrant concoction offers the perfect equilibrium between sweetness and a delightful tartness, making it an exceptionally invigorating choice, especially during warm summer months. It’s a fantastic alternative for those who lean towards bright, fruity desserts over heavier, dairy-based options, and its non-alcoholic nature means it’s a family-friendly favorite for all ages. Understanding what makes the original so special is the first step to recreating its magic at home.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Daiquiri Ice
Crafting a truly authentic Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice requires a precise combination of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Water: As the primary base for this sorbet, water contributes to its light, refreshing, and dairy-free consistency.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for balancing the tartness of the lime and citric acid, providing the necessary sweetness that makes this a delightful treat. It also helps with the sorbet’s texture, preventing it from becoming too icy.
- Fresh Lime Juice: This is the heart of the Daiquiri Ice flavor. Using fresh-squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable for achieving a bright, vibrant, and natural tartness. Bottled lime juice simply won’t deliver the same authentic punch. Don’t worry if a little pulp gets in; it adds to the natural feel.
- Imitation Rum Extract: This is the secret ingredient that gives Daiquiri Ice its distinctive “daiquiri” essence without any actual alcohol. The extract provides a subtle, warm, and aromatic note that mimics the classic cocktail. If your local supermarket doesn’t stock it, you can easily find quality imitation rum extract online.
- Citric Acid Powder: This ingredient is absolutely instrumental in replicating the distinct tartness of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice that pure lime juice alone cannot fully achieve. It provides a clean, sharp sourness without adding extra liquid, ensuring the perfect balance. Citric acid is also commonly used as a natural preservative, often found in products like Fruit-Fresh. You can easily purchase citric acid powder for baking and preserving.
- Green Food Coloring: To achieve that signature “mint-green” appearance characteristic of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice, green food coloring is essential. Opt for a true green rather than a lime green, adding it gradually, drop by drop, until you achieve the perfect shade that evokes that classic Baskin Robbins feel.
Essential Equipment for Your Daiquiri Ice Copycat
To successfully make this refreshing Daiquiri Ice at home, the most crucial piece of equipment you’ll need is an ice cream maker. While this might seem like an extra investment, these appliances are surprisingly affordable and open up a world of homemade frozen desserts. They are incredibly versatile for making various ice creams, sorbets, and gelatos, offering great value beyond just this recipe. Many modern ice cream makers feature self-freezing compressors or require you to pre-freeze their bowl. For older or simpler models, you’ll also need some rock salt and a bag of ice to create the necessary freezing environment. Always consult your specific ice cream maker’s manual for precise instructions, as some newer models may not require rock salt. Beyond this, a saucepan for heating and a reliable airtight container for storage are all you need.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice at Home
Creating this refreshing Daiquiri Ice at home is a straightforward process, mainly involving combining ingredients and letting your ice cream maker do the churning. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result:
1. Prepare the Simple Syrup Base: Begin by combining the sugar and water in a saucepan on your stove. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring continuously, until all the granulated sugar has completely dissolved. This creates a smooth, sweet base for your sorbet. Once dissolved, remove the pan from the heat.
2. Infuse with Key Flavors: While the syrup is still warm, add the citric acid powder. Stir well until it’s fully dissolved. Allowing the mixture to cool for a few minutes is important before incorporating the rum extract, fresh lime juice, and green food coloring. This prevents the delicate flavors from evaporating due to excessive heat.
3. Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Take a small taste of your mixture. The amount of citric acid needed can vary depending on the natural tartness of your limes. If you desire a more pronounced tang, add more citric acid powder, a half teaspoon at a time, stirring well after each addition until you reach your preferred level of tartness. Remember, the citric acid is key to replicating that signature Baskin Robbins zing.
4. Chill Thoroughly: For the best results, the mixture must be thoroughly chilled before churning. Transfer it to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. A well-chilled base will churn into a smoother, more consistent sorbet.
5. Churn to Perfection: Once chilled, transfer your vibrant green mixture into your ice cream maker’s container. Follow your machine’s instructions for churning. Typically, this process takes around 45 to 60 minutes, or until the sorbet reaches a soft-serve consistency. Many modern ice cream makers will automatically shut off when ready, signaling that your Daiquiri Ice is beautifully churned and aerated.
6. Freeze for Firmness: After churning, the Daiquiri Ice will be soft. To achieve that classic scoopable sorbet texture, transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. Place it in the freezer for at least a few hours – 3 to 4 hours is usually sufficient – before serving. This allows it to firm up perfectly.
7. Storage: Always store your homemade Daiquiri Ice in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents ice crystals from forming and maintains its smooth, refreshing texture for up to a few weeks, though it’s so delicious, it rarely lasts that long!
Love it? Pin it! Share the Joy!
If you’re as thrilled as I am about this incredible Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice Recipe, don’t let it get lost in your bookmarks! Make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. Sharing is caring, and your friends and followers might be missing this classic treat too!
Frequently Asked Questions About This Daiquiri Ice Copycat Recipe
- Does Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice contain alcohol? No, neither the original nor this copycat recipe contains actual alcohol. The “daiquiri” flavor is achieved using imitation rum extract, making it a perfectly suitable and family-friendly treat for individuals of all ages and those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
- What exactly is citric acid powder and why is it used? Citric acid powder is a naturally occurring white, crystalline substance found in citrus fruits like lemons and limes. In culinary applications, it’s primarily used to impart a sharp, sour taste to foods and beverages, as well as acting as a natural preservative (often sold as “Fruit Fresh”). In this Daiquiri Ice recipe, it’s crucial for delivering that signature tangy zest and vibrant sourness that distinguishes Baskin Robbins’ version, which might not be achievable with lime juice alone, especially if your limes aren’t very tart. It also contributes to the overall bright flavor profile without adding extra liquid that could dilute the sorbet.
- Can I make this without an ice cream maker? While possible, achieving the smooth, light, and perfectly textured sorbet of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice is significantly easier and more consistent with an ice cream maker. Without one, you would need to freeze the mixture in a shallow pan and scrape it every 30-60 minutes with a fork to break up ice crystals, which is more labor-intensive and may result in a coarser texture.
- How long does homemade Daiquiri Ice last in the freezer? When stored in an airtight container, your homemade Daiquiri Ice can last for up to 2-3 weeks in the freezer. Beyond that, its texture may become overly icy, and the flavors might start to diminish.
More Reasons to Own an Ice Cream Maker: Endless Frozen Delights!
Beyond this fantastic Daiquiri Ice recipe, owning an ice cream maker opens up a world of culinary creativity for frozen treats. It’s a versatile appliance that can transform simple ingredients into delicious desserts. Here are just a few more irresistible recipes you can whip up:
- Lemon Ice Cream (pictured above) – A bright and zesty classic perfect for summer.
- Coconut Sorbet – Creamy without the dairy, a tropical escape.
- Grape Nut Ice Cream – Experience this unique, beloved Jamaican delicacy.
- Pineapple Dole Whip – Bring the magic of Disney’s iconic treat to your home!
- Coffee Ice Cream – A rich and invigorating choice for coffee lovers.
- Cinnamon Vanilla Ice Cream – A warm and comforting twist on a classic.
- White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Ice Cream – An elegant and decadent dessert.
But honestly, even if the only thing you ever make with your ice cream maker is this incredibly authentic Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice, you’ll find immense satisfaction. Especially if, like me, it’s your absolute favorite and has become increasingly difficult to find, the ability to conjure it up anytime is truly priceless!
This homemade Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice recipe empowers you to easily recreate a beloved classic whenever the craving for its unique lime flavor strikes. With its perfect harmony of tangy lime and balanced sweetness, presented in a refreshingly light, sorbet-like texture, this copycat version authentically captures the essence that makes the original so special. Whether your motivation is to save money, a nearby Baskin Robbins has closed, or you simply cherish the satisfaction of crafting your favorite treats from scratch, this recipe promises to deliver that iconic, nostalgic citrus experience that has captivated frozen dessert lovers for generations. So grab your ingredients, prepare your ice cream maker, and get ready to enjoy a taste of pure delight – a true celebration of flavor in every scoop!
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Print Recipe
Copycat Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice Recipe
Equipment
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Ice Cream Scoop with Comfortable Handle
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Hamilton Beach 68330N Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 4 Quart, White
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Cuisinart ICE-30BC Pure Indulgence 2-Quart Automatic Ice Cream Maker
Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 3 cup sugar
- 3 limes, juiced fresh squeezed, pulp is fine
- 3 teaspoons imitation rum extract
- 2-4 teaspoons citric acid powder or Fruit-Fresh
- 3 drops green food coloring
Instructions
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In a pan on the stove, heat sugar and water just until sugar melts.
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Remove from heat and add 1 1/2 teaspoons citric acid. Stir until dissolved.
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Let mixture cool for a few minutes and add rum extract, lime juice and food coloring.
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Taste, and add more citric acid powder as needed, a 1/2 teaspoon at a time. The citric acid will be what gives this recipe it’s tartness. The amount you will need will vary based also on the tartness of your limes. Mine weren’t very tart at all, and I ended up using another 4 teaspoons to get it to where I was happy about the flavor.
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Refrigerate until chilled.
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Move and an ice cream maker. Churn in machine for about 55 minutes or until yours says it’s ready (mine shuts off on it’s own).
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Move to the freezer for a few hours before serving.
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Makes about 8 cups
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on June 11, 2014. It has been meticulously updated to improve the user experience and reshared on April 22, 2025. While the cherished recipe itself remains unchanged, the presentation and photos have been refreshed to offer an even more appealing guide to your favorite frozen treat.
