Recreate the Iconic Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice at Home: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe

For decades, Baskin Robbins’ Daiquiri Ice has captivated taste buds with its vibrant mint-green hue and a unique, exhilarating burst of lime flavor. This isn’t your average creamy dessert; it’s a refreshing, sorbet-like experience that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and intensely tangy citrus. If you’ve ever found yourself craving this distinctive frozen treat, perhaps lamenting the absence of a nearby Baskin Robbins, or simply enjoying the challenge and satisfaction of crafting beloved desserts from scratch, then you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will empower you to recreate the magic of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice right in your own kitchen with an incredibly accurate copycat recipe that tastes remarkably like the original.

Many dessert enthusiasts have a soft spot for classic ice cream flavors like chocolate chip or vanilla. However, there’s a special category of frozen delights that transcends traditional expectations, and for me, Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice has always been at the top of that list. Its distinctive sharp, clean lime flavor combined with a light, icy texture is truly unparalleled. The very thought of it brings back cherished memories of hot summer days and refreshing scoops.

Back in 2014, when Baskin Robbins locations in areas like Omaha started closing their doors, a wave of sadness swept over dedicated fans of their 31 Flavors. For many, including myself, this meant losing access to that beloved Daiquiri Ice. The quest began to find a way to replicate this unique dessert at home, ensuring that the nostalgic flavor could be enjoyed whenever the craving struck, regardless of proximity to a physical store. This meticulously developed copycat recipe is the culmination of that quest, delivering an authentic taste and texture that truly mirrors the original. It’s a game-changer for anyone who misses this iconic treat.

The Essence of Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice

Baskin Robbins’ Daiquiri Ice has carved out a special niche in the world of frozen desserts. Unlike creamy ice creams, this delightful treat boasts a lighter, sorbet-like consistency, making it incredibly refreshing. Its hallmark is the vibrant, tangy lime flavor, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. This delightful interplay of flavors is what makes it a perennial favorite, especially during warm weather. The bright mint-green color is also instantly recognizable, hinting at the zesty experience to come. It’s a treat that appeals to those who prefer fruity, invigorating flavors over richer, heavier cream-based options, offering a palate-cleansing finish to any meal or a delightful pick-me-up on a scorching day.

Key Ingredients for Your Homemade Daiquiri Ice

Creating this spot-on copycat Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice requires a few essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature flavor and texture:

• Water: The base of our sorbet, providing the necessary liquid for the icy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: This provides the sweetness that perfectly balances the intense tartness of the lime. Don’t skimp, as sugar also contributes to the sorbet’s smooth texture by preventing it from freezing too hard.
• Fresh Lime Juice: This is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Use freshly squeezed limes to get that bright, zesty, and natural tartness that defines Daiquiri Ice. Bottled lime juice simply won’t yield the same vibrant taste.
• Imitation Rum Extract: This secret ingredient is key to the unique “daiquiri” profile without adding alcohol. It imparts a distinct aromatic depth that elevates the lime. If you struggle to find it in your local supermarket, specialty baking stores or online retailers (like this option) often carry it.
• Citric Acid Powder: This ingredient is absolutely essential for replicating the authentic Baskin Robbins tartness. While fresh lime juice provides some tang, citric acid powder (often found with canning supplies or baking ingredients, or online) gives it that specific, sharp sourness without diluting the mixture. It’s crucial for the intense lime punch.
• Green Food Coloring: To achieve that iconic mint-green shade, you’ll need green food coloring. Opt for a true green rather than a yellow-green or lime green to get the most accurate color. Add it sparingly, drop by drop, until you achieve the desired soft mint-green shade.

Essential Equipment for Making Daiquiri Ice

To successfully make this fantastic Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice copycat, an ice cream maker is an indispensable tool. While it might seem like a single-purpose appliance, modern ice cream makers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide array of frozen desserts, making them a worthwhile investment for any home cook. There are various types available, from traditional rock salt and ice machines to more modern models with self-refrigerating compressors or freezer bowls. Here’s what you’ll generally need:

• Ice Cream Maker: This is the most crucial piece of equipment. Don’t be deterred if you don’t own one; they are surprisingly affordable, and the joy of homemade frozen treats will quickly justify the purchase. You can find excellent options like traditional electric models that use ice and rock salt, or more convenient models with freezer bowls that need to be pre-chilled.
• Rock Salt and Ice (for some models): If you have a traditional bucket-style ice cream maker, you’ll need a good supply of ice and rock salt to create the freezing environment. Always follow your specific ice cream maker’s instructions.
• Saucepan: For heating the water and sugar mixture.
• Whisk or Spoon: For stirring ingredients.
• Airtight Container: Essential for storing your finished Daiquiri Ice in the freezer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice

Crafting this delightful Daiquiri Ice is simpler than you might imagine. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect results every time:

1. Prepare the Simple Syrup Base: In a medium saucepan on your stovetop, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, just until all the sugar has completely dissolved. It’s important not to boil the mixture excessively, as we are simply dissolving the sugar to create a syrup.
2. Introduce Citric Acid: Once the sugar has fully dissolved, remove the pan from the heat. Immediately add 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid powder to the warm sugar syrup. Stir thoroughly until the citric acid is completely dissolved. This initial addition lays the groundwork for that signature tang.
3. Cool and Infuse Flavors: Allow the mixture to cool down for a few minutes. It doesn’t need to be completely cold, but it shouldn’t be piping hot when you add the delicate flavorings. Once slightly cooled, stir in the imitation rum extract, freshly squeezed lime juice, and a few drops of green food coloring. Start with 3 drops of food coloring and add more if needed to reach your desired mint-green shade.
4. Taste and Adjust Tartness: Now comes the crucial step: taste the mixture. The amount of citric acid you’ll need can vary depending on the natural tartness of your limes. If you desire more tang, add additional citric acid powder, a 1/2 teaspoon at a time, stirring well after each addition and tasting again. My limes weren’t extremely tart, so I found myself adding up to an additional 4 teaspoons to achieve the perfect flavor balance. This iterative tasting process ensures you get the exact tartness you remember from Baskin Robbins.
5. Chill Thoroughly: Once the flavor profile is perfect, cover the mixture and refrigerate it until it is thoroughly chilled. This is a critical step, as a well-chilled base will churn more efficiently and result in a smoother, finer-textured sorbet. Allow at least 1-2 hours for chilling, or even longer if possible.

6. Churn in the Ice Cream Maker: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker’s pre-chilled bowl or container. Churn according to your machine’s instructions. This usually takes about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency. Some machines will automatically shut off when ready. The churning process introduces air and breaks down ice crystals, resulting in that delightful sorbet-like texture.
7. Firm Up in the Freezer: Once churned, the Daiquiri Ice will be soft. Transfer it to an airtight container and move it to the freezer for at least a few hours to firm up. For optimal scoopability and that true Baskin Robbins texture, freezing for 3-4 hours is ideal.

Serve your homemade Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice whenever the craving strikes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its freshness and prevent ice crystal formation. This recipe yields approximately 8 cups of delicious Daiquiri Ice.

Love it? Pin it! Share the Delight!

If you’re as thrilled as we are with this incredible **Copycat Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice recipe**, don’t let it slip away! Be sure to save it for later by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. Sharing is caring, and your friends and followers will thank you for introducing them to this refreshing homemade treat! Pin this recipe today and easily revisit it whenever you’re ready to whip up a batch of this vibrant, tangy sorbet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Daiquiri Ice

Here are some common questions about making this fantastic Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice copycat:

• Does Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice contain alcohol? No, the original Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice does not contain alcohol, and neither does this copycat recipe. It uses imitation rum extract, which provides a distinct flavor without any alcoholic content. This makes it a perfectly suitable and enjoyable treat for people of all ages, including children and those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
• What exactly is citric acid powder and why is it used? Citric acid powder is a naturally occurring white, crystalline substance found abundantly in citrus fruits like lemons and limes. It’s renowned for its ability to impart a sharp, sour taste to foods and beverages. Beyond flavor, it also acts as a natural preservative, sometimes sold as “Fruit Fresh.” In recipes like our Daiquiri Ice, citric acid powder is instrumental in delivering that potent, tangy kick characteristic of the original, without adding additional liquid that could affect the sorbet’s texture. It allows for precise control over the tartness.
• How long can I store homemade Daiquiri Ice? When stored in an airtight container in the freezer, your homemade Daiquiri Ice will retain its best quality for up to 2-3 weeks. Beyond that, while still safe to eat, its texture may become harder or develop larger ice crystals.
• Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker? While possible, achieving the smooth, sorbet-like texture will be much more challenging without an ice cream maker. You could try the “no-churn” method by freezing the mixture in a shallow pan and stirring it vigorously every 30-60 minutes for several hours to break up ice crystals. However, an ice cream maker is highly recommended for the best results.
• What if my Daiquiri Ice is too hard? If your sorbet freezes too hard, it likely has too much sugar, or wasn’t churned long enough. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly. For future batches, ensure accurate measurements of sugar and proper churning time.

More Reasons to Own an Ice Cream Maker: Unlock a World of Frozen Delights!

As you embark on your journey to create the perfect Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice, you’ll quickly realize the immense value of owning an ice cream maker. This versatile appliance opens up a world of homemade frozen desserts far beyond just sorbets. Here are just a few more irresistible reasons to keep that ice cream maker churning:

• Lemon Ice Cream: (pictured above) A classic, refreshing, and creamy treat that perfectly balances sweet and tart.
• Coconut Sorbet: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this light, dairy-free, and incredibly flavorful sorbet.
• Grape Nut Ice Cream: Experience a unique Caribbean-inspired flavor, just like the authentic Jamaican favorite.
• Pineapple Dole Whip: Recreate the iconic Disney theme park treat, a creamy, tangy, and unforgettable pineapple soft-serve.
• Coffee Ice Cream: Indulge in the rich, bold flavors of coffee in a smooth, luxurious ice cream.
• Cinnamon Vanilla Ice Cream: A warm and comforting twist on a classic, perfect for pairing with apple pie or enjoying on its own.
• White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Ice Cream: For those special occasions, a gourmet blend of sweet white chocolate and tart raspberries.

Honestly, even if this Daiquiri Ice copycat is the only recipe you ever make in your ice cream maker, you’ll still be incredibly pleased with the investment. The sheer joy of recreating your favorite discontinued or hard-to-find treats at home is immeasurable, especially when the result is as spectacularly accurate as this one.

This homemade Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice recipe truly empowers you to capture the beloved mint-green treat’s essence whenever a craving strikes. With its perfect balance of tangy lime and just the right touch of sweetness, combined with a refreshingly light, sorbet-like texture, this copycat version encapsulates everything that makes the original so special. Whether your motivation is to save money, the nearest Baskin Robbins is a distant memory, or you simply revel in the satisfaction of crafting your favorite treats from scratch, this recipe delivers that authentic, nostalgic citrus experience that has charmed frozen dessert aficionados for generations. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family with this incredible, vibrant creation. Enjoy every invigorating scoop!

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Copycat Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice Recipe

If you’re like me and can’t get Baskin Robbin’s Daiquiri Ice in your town anymore, make it at home! This copycat recipe tastes JUST like the real thing!

Prep Time1 hour hr

Cook Time5 minutes mins

Additional Time3 hours hrs

Total Time4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course: Ice Cream & Frozen Treats

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice, Baskin Robbins, Copycat recipe, Daiquiri Ice

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 300kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

• Ice Cream Scoop with Comfortable Handle
• Hamilton Beach 68330N Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 4 Quart, White
• 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

1. In a pan on the stove, heat sugar and water just until sugar melts.
2. Remove from heat and add 1 1/2 teaspoons citric acid. Stir until dissolved.
3. Let mixture cool for a few minutes and add rum extract, lime juice and food coloring.
4. 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 its 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.
5. Refrigerate until chilled.
6. Move to an ice cream maker. Churn in machine for about 55 minutes or until yours says it’s ready (mine shuts off on its own).
7. Move to the freezer for a few hours before serving.
8. Makes about 8 cups.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 |
Calories: 300kcal |
Carbohydrates: 77g |
Protein: 0.2g |
Fat: 0.3g |
Saturated Fat: 0.01g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g |
Sodium: 10mg |
Potassium: 27mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 75g |
Vitamin A: 13IU |
Vitamin C: 7mg |
Calcium: 14mg |
Iron: 0.2mg

This recipe was originally published on June 11, 2014, and has been thoughtfully updated to enhance the user experience and ensure its continued relevance. The content and core recipe remain true to the original, with improvements made to readability, additional tips, and refreshed imagery. It was reshared on April 22, 2025.