Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with these 20 delightful watermelon dessert recipes! As the temperatures soar, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a cool and creamy treat that incorporates the sweet and refreshing flavors of watermelon. From classic desserts like sorbet and popsicles, to unique twists like grilled watermelon and watermelon tart, we’ve got you covered with a variety of recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re looking for a light and fruity snack or a decadent dessert to impress your friends, these watermelon dessert recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all perfect for hot summer days spent lounging by the pool, having backyard BBQs, or just enjoying the great outdoors.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in these refreshing treats that will make your taste buds do the happy dance!
Watermelon Sorbet with Mint
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing sorbet, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the watermelon puree, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped mint leaves.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating time), 30-40 minutes (churning time)
Grilled Watermelon with Honey and Lime
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unique and flavorful twist on traditional watermelon. Grilling the melon brings out its natural sweetness, while a drizzle of honey and squeeze of lime juice adds a tangy and refreshing touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the watermelon slices with a little water.
3. Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Once grilled, transfer the melon to a serving platter.
5. Drizzle the honey over the melon, followed by a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Season with salt to taste (if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Watermelon Popsicles with Coconut Milk
Cool down with a refreshing treat that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the creaminess of coconut milk – Watermelon Popsicles with Coconut Milk!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess pulp and fibers.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and honey until well combined.
4. Add the coconut milk mixture to the watermelon puree and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
6. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold or cup.
7. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Watermelon and Feta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer salad combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze (see below) over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Balsamic Glaze:
1. Combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp honey in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
3. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 15 minutes)
Watermelon Granita with Basil
This granita is a unique twist on the classic watermelon treat, adding the brightness of basil to create a perfect summer dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the sugar and lime juice to the watermelon juice. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, stir in the chopped basil leaves.
6. Pour the granita into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place it in the freezer and every 30 minutes, scrape the mixture with a fork to form crystals. This process should take about 2-3 hours.
7. Serve the watermelon granita chilled, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Watermelon Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
Experience the refreshing taste of summer with this unique and delicious watermelon cake recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup watermelon puree (canned or fresh)
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– Whipped cream frosting ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter and watermelon puree. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. For whipped cream frosting, beat heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Assemble cake by spreading frosting on top of one layer, then place the second layer on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Watermelon Smoothie Bowl with Fresh Berries
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer treat! This Watermelon Smoothie Bowl is perfect for a quick and healthy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries of your choice (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Top with fresh berries of your choice.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Watermelon and Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing gazpacho, perfect for a summer’s day. This refreshing soup combines the sweetness of watermelon with the coolness of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about half of a small melon)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine watermelon, cucumber, mint, and broth.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more broth if needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
6. Offer crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Cooking Time: None needed! This gazpacho is ready to serve after chilling.
Watermelon Tart with Vanilla Custard
Beat the heat with this sweet and refreshing dessert! This watermelon tart combines the natural sweetness of ripe watermelon with a creamy vanilla custard, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Arrange watermelon slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract. Pour mixture over watermelon.
4. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Watermelon Jelly with Lemon Zest
A refreshing twist on traditional jelly, this recipe combines the sweetness of watermelon with a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups watermelon puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine watermelon puree, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in lemon juice and grated lemon zest.
4. In a small bowl, mix powdered pectin with a little water (about 1 tablespoon) until smooth. Add the pectin mixture to the saucepan and stir well.
5. Continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes or until the jelly has thickened to your liking.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Watermelon and Strawberry Parfait
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing dessert that combines sweet watermelon and juicy strawberries. Perfect for a warm-weather treat or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and sliced strawberries.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture over the fruit in the large bowl.
4. Sprinkle with granola and repeat the layers one more time, finishing with the remaining yogurt on top.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Watermelon Ice Cream Sandwiches
Beat the heat with these refreshing watermelon ice cream sandwiches! A twist on the classic ice cream sandwich, this recipe combines creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet and tangy watermelon puree, and crunchy cookies for a unique summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe watermelon, diced
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream, softened
– 12-15 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g. Oreos)
– Honey or sugar, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the diced watermelon until smooth.
2. Fold the watermelon puree into the softened ice cream until well combined.
3. Place a scoop of the watermelon ice cream between two chocolate sandwich cookies.
4. Drizzle with honey or sugar to balance the flavors (optional).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Watermelon Mojito Sorbet
Watermelon Mojito Sorbet Recipe
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail!
Ingredients:
• 2 cups watermelon puree (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup club soda
• Ice
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon puree and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in lime juice and chopped mint leaves.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the sorbet has reached desired consistency, stir in club soda.
5. Transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)
Note: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish and freeze for about 4-6 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
Watermelon and Pineapple Fruit Salad
This sweet and tangy fruit salad is perfect for hot summer days. With its refreshing combination of watermelon, pineapple, and a hint of citrus, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced watermelon
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and pineapple.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the fruit mixture.
3. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Watermelon Pudding with Chia Seeds
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing dessert, perfect for warm weather. This unique pudding combines the sweetness of watermelon with the nutty flavor of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chia seeds and honey. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the yogurt, salt, and chia seed mixture. Whisk until well combined.
4. Add the watermelon puree to the yogurt mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Watermelon and Coconut Macaroons
Experience the refreshing combination of juicy watermelon and creamy coconut in these chewy macaroon cookies, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup unsweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup watermelon puree (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, condensed milk, watermelon puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
5. Allow macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Watermelon Margarita Popsicles
Beat the heat with these sweet and tangy popsicles that combine the flavors of watermelon, lime, and tequila.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup tequila ( silver or reposado)
– 1 cup water
– Ice pop molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add tequila and blend until well combined.
3. Stir in water to thin the mixture to your desired consistency.
4. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
5. Freeze popsicles for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Tips:
– Use a ripe and sweet watermelon for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of tequila to your taste.
– These popsicles are perfect for hot summer days, outdoor gatherings, or as a fun treat any time of the year!
Watermelon and Mango Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the natural sweetness of watermelon and mango with a hint of spice, making it perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine watermelon, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time: 10 minutes, chill time: 5 minutes)
Enjoy your sweet and savory Watermelon and Mango Salsa!
Watermelon Cheesecake Bites
Perfect for hot summer days, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of watermelon with the creaminess of cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup watermelon puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
3. Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in watermelon puree and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crusts. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Watermelon and Kiwi Smoothie
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy smoothie, perfect for a summer treat. This refreshing blend combines the juiciness of watermelon with the sweetness of kiwi.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed watermelon
– 1 medium kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, kiwi, and yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until crushed and frosty.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing watermelon dessert recipes! From classic treats like sorbet and popsicles, to innovative creations like watermelon cake and tart, there’s something for everyone. Try combining watermelon with mint, honey, and lime for a sweet and tangy treat. Or, take it up a notch with coconut milk-based popsicles or chia seed pudding. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will have you sipping on summer in no time!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
