
This bright chili lime mango sorbet is what I reach for when the weather turns sweltering and I want something sweet with a kick. It comes together fast using frozen mango and a few fresh ingredients and delivers a creamy sorbet with zingy lime and just enough heat to keep it interesting.
I started making this for summer family barbecues and it is now the most requested dessert from both kids and adults. Once you taste the sweet mango with that hint of heat you will see why this sorbet wins hearts and disappears quickly.
Ingredients
- Frozen mango: Gives the sorbet its creamy sweetness and bright color. Choose ripe frozen mango chunks for best flavor
- Canned full fat coconut milk: Makes everything extra creamy and adds richness. Use high quality coconut milk for the smoothest texture
- Lime juice and zest: Add bold citrusy punch. Pick a fresh and heavy lime for juiciness and the tastiest zest
- Maple syrup: Sweetens things naturally while keeping it vegan. Look for real maple syrup with good amber color
- Chili lime seasoning: Provides a tangy spicy finish. Taste and adjust depending on your heat preference. I love Tajin for its well balanced kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Gather your mango straight from the freezer and zest and juice your lime right before blending to keep the flavors lively
- Blend it All:
- Combine the frozen mango coconut milk lime juice and zest maple syrup and chili lime seasoning in a high speed blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is completely silky and smooth. This may take a few minutes and you might need to pause and scrape down the sides. If using a tamper gently press the fruit toward the blades to help everything combine evenly
- Pour and Smooth:
- Spoon or pour the finished sorbet into a chilled loaf pan or freezer safe dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for even freezing
- Top and Freeze:
- Sprinkle extra chili lime seasoning and coconut flakes if you like then cover tightly with foil. Place in the freezer for at least one hour to firm up or serve immediately for a softer sorbet
- Scoop and Enjoy:
- Use a warm scoop to serve the chilled sorbet straight from the pan. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and a dusting of more chili lime seasoning for that vibrant finish

My favorite part of this recipe is testing different chili lime blends Each gives its own special flavor I remember the first time I tried the Tajin version it was during a family picnic Everybody wanted seconds and we ran out before the burgers were done
Storage Tips
Store the sorbet tightly covered in the freezer to prevent ice crystals Press a piece of parchment or wax paper against the surface before sealing with foil or a lid This helps the texture stay perfectly scoopable If your sorbet gets very hard just let it sit on the counter for ten minutes before scooping
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of maple syrup agave or honey also work well For a different fruit base try frozen pineapple or papaya with the mango for extra tropical flavor You can also make it less spicy by using regular lime zest with a pinch of cayenne instead of chili lime seasoning
Serving Suggestions
I love scooping this sorbet into cups and topping with coconut flakes and extra chili lime seasoning For a party try serving small scoops in tiny glasses with a drizzle of coconut milk over the top Kids like this with rainbow sprinkles and a few fresh mango slices
Cultural Context
This recipe was inspired by traditional Mexican paletas and street snacks that pair juicy fruit with lime and chili powder The combination is popular for a reason The sweet spicy tangy flavors make for the most refreshing treat

Taste your mango before starting and pick limes that feel heavy and juicy for the best flavor in every scoop.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I achieve a smooth sorbet texture?
Use a high-speed blender or food processor and blend the frozen mango with coconut milk and lime until no chunks remain. Serve immediately for a soft texture or freeze for a firmer scoop.
- → Can I use fresh mango instead of frozen?
Fresh mango can be used, but freeze the chunks beforehand for best results. Blending room temperature mango will make the sorbet less thick and icy.
- → What does chili lime seasoning add to the dessert?
Chili lime seasoning introduces a subtle tang and mild heat that balances the mango's sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Transfer the sorbet to a covered container and freeze. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to soften slightly.
- → Is the coconut milk necessary?
Coconut milk delivers a creamy texture and rich flavor. You can substitute with other plant-based milks, though the consistency may vary.