DessertsEasy

Mexican Lime Sorbet

Name: Mexican Lime Sorbet
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 10 Mexican limes; 200 g Sugar; 500 ml Water; 1 pinch Salt

15 min (15 prep + 0 cook) Easy 6 servings Nacional

Edmond Bojalil

Recetas Mexas

Published: 24 Mar 2026 · Updated: 28 Apr 2026

Traditional Mexican lime sorbet, the most popular flavour in nieverias.

About this recipe

Mexican lime sorbet is a traditional frozen treat made with fresh lime juice, sugar and water. Its texture is creamy and refreshing, with a perfect balance between tart and sweet.

History & Origin

The tradition of nieves (ices) in Mexico dates back to the 16th century, when snow was brought from the Popocatepetl and other volcanoes to prepare cold drinks. In Oaxaca, garrafa nieves are Cultural Heritage. Lime is the original and most popular flavour.

Estimated cost

£3.40

Total cost

£0.57

Per serving

* Approximate prices based on UK supermarkets

Nutritional information per serving

120

Calories

0.2g

Protein

30g

Carbohydrates

0.1g

Fat

0.2g

Fibre

2mg

Sodium

* Approximate values. May vary depending on ingredients used.

Method

1
Make a syrup: boil the water with sugar and a pinch of salt until the sugar dissolves completely. Leave to cool.
2
Squeeze the limes to obtain approximately 250ml of juice. Strain to remove seeds and pulp.
3
Mix the cooled syrup with the lime juice. Taste and adjust sweetness.
4
Pour the mixture into a wide container and freeze. Every 45 minutes, remove and scrape with a fork to break up the ice crystals. Repeat 3-4 times until you have a creamy sorbet texture.
5
Serve in cones or cups. The sorbet should be firm but not hard, with a granita-like yet creamy texture.