Apple Cider Granita

Every September we go apple and pumpkin picking in Bucks County, PA. It’s become a family tradition that I look forward to every year. I plan our trip 3 months in advance, that's how much I love it.

This year was even more fun because my son is two, which is definitely the age of exploration. He had a blast last year, but there is something about the way he sees things as a two year old that is very special and exciting. He can communicate verbally in a bigger way this year, and he can also run, jump and explore like a big boy now. It's really a site to behold.

Each year we look forward to enjoying a special frozen treat at the apple orchards-Cider Ice! It’s a super-delicious frosty treat made of frozen Cider. Genius! It may seem strange to sell a frozen treat during the fall, but it was 80 degrees when we went picking this year so, Cider Ice was a perfectly refreshing snack. After we ran around the orchards and picked ‘till our hearts content, my son, sat quietly, on a pumpkin and gleefully slurped down this delicious delight.

My son is a fan of all things frozen, so I knew I had to try and recreate a similar snack at home. I wanted to keep this recipe pure and healthy, using only cider and since I don't own a slushy machine or a Snoopy Snow Cone machine, the first thing that came to mind is Granita (I AM Italian after all!). It's barely a recipe, it's that simple to make. Only 1 ingredient! It's perfect for kids but elegant enough to entertain with (think-refreshingly light Thanksgiving dessert), topped with some fresh cinnamon whipped cream and served in a pretty glass.

This recipe is the perfect use for any cider you might have lying around the house. I give it to my son as an afternoon snack or as a dessert in lieu of ice cream.

Apple Cider Granita
Serves 4-6

Ingredient: (yes. just one!)

3-4 cups apple cider

Preparation:

1.Pour cider into a 9-inch glass deep-dish pie plate or any other freezer friendly, shallow container.

2. Place dish into freezer for 2 hours. Remove plate from the freezer and scrape the frozen cider with a fork (see images above). The idea is to shave the ice away with your fork, creating a snowy texture. Place the plate back into the freezer and continue to freeze for another hour. Repeat the scraping process until all of the frozen cider is scraped away, about 4 hours total. Scoop out the frozen cider and place into serving cups. Serve au naturale or topped with some cinnamon spiked fresh whipped cream.