Sherbet

Sherbet is a term with several related meanings, but in North American English it most commonly refers to a frozen dessert made with fruit flavouring and a small amount of dairy.

Sherbet is a term with several related meanings, but in North American English it most commonly refers to a frozen dessert made with fruit flavouring and a small amount of dairy. In other contexts, especially British English, it can refer to a fizzy flavoured powder, and historically it also named a chilled sweet drink. The dessert form is distinct from sorbet because sherbet contains dairy.

Definition and ingredients

Sherbet is a frozen dessert made from water, sugar, flavourings, and a dairy ingredient such as milk or cream. Egg white or gelatin may also be added for texture, and flavourings are often fruit-based.

Regional meanings

The meaning of sherbet varies by region. In British English it commonly refers to a fizzy sweet powder, while in some historical or Middle Eastern contexts it refers to a sweetened drink. In Canada, sherbet is generally understood in the North American sense as a frozen dessert, though the term may still be confused with British meanings in some contexts.

Sherbet vs. sorbet

Sherbet and sorbet are similar frozen desserts, but sherbet contains dairy and sorbet does not. This difference affects flavour and texture, with sherbet generally being slightly creamier.

Regulation in the United States

In the United States, sherbet is defined by its dairy content, which is generally 1% to 2% milk fat. This legal distinction separates it from dairy-free frozen fruit desserts.