Rainbow Sherbet from Baskin-Robbins features a vibrant trio of tangy orange, zesty raspberry, and refreshing lime flavors, swirled together into a smooth, colorful, and creamy frozen treat that's both visually appealing and delightfully refreshing.
Equipments
- Ice cream maker (or commercial batch freezer)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer
- Freezer-safe containers
- Ice cream scoop
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 cup fresh raspberry puree (strained seeds removed)
- 2-3 drops orange food coloring (optional)
- 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
- 2-3 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
Using fresh citrus juices and zests is essential in achieving the authentic tangy flavors of Rainbow Sherbet, so ensure you have ripe oranges, limes, and fresh raspberries on hand. Cornstarch acts as a natural thickener to create the smooth, creamy texture, while light corn syrup helps prevent ice crystals from forming, maintaining the dessert's signature consistency. Vanilla extract adds subtle depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the fruit notes. Measuring ingredients accurately will help you replicate the balanced sweetness and tartness found in the original Baskin-Robbins recipe. Your homemade Rainbow Sherbet copycat menu will shine with vibrant, refreshing flavors closely matching the iconic Baskin-Robbins treat.
Instructions
- Chill the ice cream maker bowl overnight (if required by your machine).
- In a saucepan, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and light corn syrup.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little milk to make a slurry.
- Heat the milk mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a mixing bowl.
- Cool the custard base to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled (at least 4 hours or overnight).
- Divide the chilled ice cream base evenly into three separate bowls.
- To one bowl, add orange juice, orange zest, and orange food coloring (if using); mix well.
- To the second bowl, add lime juice, lime zest, and green food coloring (if using); mix well.
- To the third bowl, add raspberry puree and red or pink food coloring (if using); mix well.
- Churn each flavor separately in the ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Layer or swirl the three churned sherbets in freezer-safe containers, alternating flavors for a rainbow effect.
- Freeze until firm (at least 4 hours, preferably overnight).
- Scoop and serve.
Substitution
This Rainbow Sherbet copycat replicates Baskin-Robbins' iconic mix of orange, raspberry, and lime flavors using fresh juices and zests for vibrant natural tastes. If fresh citrus or berries are unavailable, bottled juice or frozen puree can substitute, though flavor intensity may vary slightly. When using an ice cream maker is not an option, pouring the mixture into freezer-safe containers and stirring every 30 minutes helps achieve a creamy texture. You can adjust the amount of sugar or corn syrup to modify sweetness and prevent crystallization during freezing. Adding food coloring is optional and mainly enhances the visual appeal rather than the taste.
Tips
Ensure the ice cream maker bowl is thoroughly chilled overnight to achieve the proper texture and prevent melting during churning. When heating the milk mixture, avoid boiling to prevent curdling; stir constantly once cornstarch slurry is added to ensure smooth thickening without lumps. Strain the custard base carefully and chill it completely before adding fruit juices to maintain the sherbet's creamy consistency and vibrant flavors. You should churn each flavor separately and layer them immediately to create the signature rainbow effect without colors mixing or melting.
Nutritions
Rainbow Sherbet from Baskin-Robbins offers a frozen treat that balances creamy texture with vibrant fruit flavors, containing whole milk and heavy cream as its base. Each serving provides a moderate amount of fat and protein from dairy, while the fresh juices of orange, lime, and raspberry contribute natural vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants. Granulated sugar and light corn syrup add sweetness, increasing the carbohydrate content, which is important to consider if you monitor your sugar intake. Your enjoyment of this sherbet can be guilt-free if consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
Store Rainbow Sherbet in airtight, freezer-safe containers to maintain its vibrant colors and smooth texture while preventing ice crystal formation. Ensure the containers are sealed tightly to avoid absorption of any odors from your freezer, which can alter the delicate fruity flavors. For best results, keep the sherbet at a consistent freezing temperature below 0degF (-18degC) and consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh fruit juices with concentrate or natural fruit extracts to intensify flavors if fresh ingredients are unavailable. For a dairy-free version, swap whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk and coconut cream, which also adds a subtle tropical note. To create a smoother texture, consider adding a small amount of alcohol like vodka or fruit liqueur to each flavor base before churning. Experiment with layering techniques by gently folding the sherbets together instead of swirling to achieve a marbled effect that enhances visual appeal.
Allergies
Rainbow Sherbet contains dairy ingredients like whole milk and heavy cream, which could trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The citrus components such as orange juice and lime juice may also cause sensitivities in people allergic to citrus fruits. If you have food allergies, carefully check the ingredient list or consult with a healthcare professional before enjoying this frozen treat.
Why this recipe?
Rainbow Sherbet from Baskin-Robbins is popular due to its vibrant blend of tangy and sweet flavors, combining raspberry, orange, and lime sherbets into a refreshing treat. The unique fruity combination offers a palate-pleasing balance that appeals to those who prefer a lighter, dairy-free dessert option. Replicating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy a customizable, cost-effective version without artificial additives. Your homemade Rainbow Sherbet can match the iconic taste while providing freshness and personalization.