Summer is officially here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a sweet and refreshing dessert? Watermelon is one of the most iconic summer fruits, and when paired with creamy cheeses, crunchy nuts, or zesty citrus, it becomes a true showstopper. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 refreshing watermelon dessert recipes that are perfect for hot summer days. From classic fruit salads to creative popsicles and sorbets, these sweet treats will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.
Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive dessert to impress your friends, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of watermelon desserts is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth. So, grab a slice of watermelon and let’s get started!
Watermelon Sorbet
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing watermelon sorbet recipe. Perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and watermelon puree.
4. Chill the mixture to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen and scoopable, transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: None (chills and freezes)
Watermelon Popsicles
Beat the heat with these sweet and refreshing watermelon popsicles! Perfect for a hot summer day or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess pulp and fibers.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the sugar and water until dissolved.
4. Add the sugar mixture to the watermelon puree and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups with sticks.
6. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
7. To unmold, run the popsicles under warm water for a few seconds.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)
Enjoy your refreshing and healthy watermelon popsicles!
Watermelon Fruit Salad
Watermelon Fruit Salad Recipe
A refreshing summer treat that combines sweet and tangy flavors of watermelon with other juicy fruits, perfect for a hot day or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups diced watermelon (seedless)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup diced pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, mixed berries, and pineapple.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the fruit mixture.
3. Drizzle the honey over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, with lime wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Watermelon Granita
Beat the heat with this light and fruity Italian-inspired dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the watermelon puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a metal pan with a flat bottom.
5. Cover and place in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, remove and use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up any forming ice crystals. Repeat for 2-3 hours, or until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves or watermelon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (freezing time)
Watermelon Cheesecake
Beat the heat with this unique and delicious dessert that combines 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
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup watermelon puree (see note)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream, watermelon puree, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Note: To make watermelon puree, blend 2 cups of diced seedless watermelon in a food processor until smooth.
Watermelon Tart
Beat the heat with this sweet and refreshing dessert, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup watermelon cubes (about 2 cups juice)
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange watermelon cubes in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
4. Sprinkle sugar, honey, and salt evenly over the watermelon.
5. Fold the pastry up around the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.
Watermelon Mousse
Beat the heat with this light and airy watermelon mousse, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese until light and fluffy.
3. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream; mix until combined.
4. Fold the watermelon puree into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Watermelon Sorbet Float
Enjoy a refreshing summer treat with this Watermelon Sorbet Float recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup watermelon puree (cooled)
– 1 cup sorbet (watermelon or any other flavor of your choice)
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup club soda
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a large glass.
2. Place 1/2 cup of watermelon puree on top of the ice cream.
3. Add 1/2 cup of sorbet on top of the watermelon puree.
4. Pour 1/2 cup of club soda over the sorbet.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve immediately.
Watermelon Pudding
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing dessert! This sweet treat is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cool and creamy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups watermelon chunks (seedless)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, honey, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the watermelon puree to the cream mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is served chilled, so just refrigerate it for a few hours before enjoying.
Watermelon Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this refreshing and unique ice cream recipe that combines the flavors of juicy watermelon and creamy sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the watermelon puree until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
6. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Churning Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on machine)
Watermelon Smoothie Bowl
Beat the heat with this revitalizing watermelon smoothie bowl recipe! This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: granola, sliced almonds, and fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with your desired toppings (granola, sliced almonds, and fresh mint leaves).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Watermelon Parfait
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer treat! Layers of sweet watermelon, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey granola
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes and lime juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey granola until well combined.
3. To assemble the parfait, start with a layer of watermelon in the bottom of a glass or jar. Top with a dollop of yogurt-granola mixture. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of yogurt-granola on top.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to serve in under 15 minutes.
Enjoy your light and refreshing Watermelon Parfait!
Watermelon Cupcakes
Beat the heat with these sweet and refreshing watermelon cupcakes! Perfect for a summer party or potluck, these moist treats are infused with the essence of fresh watermelon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups watermelon puree (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with watermelon puree, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Watermelon Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for hot summer days when you crave something light, refreshing, and bursting with watermelon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups diced watermelon (about 2 pounds)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. Add watermelon puree and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Watermelon Sushi Rolls
Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls! This sweet and savory recipe combines juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy cream cheese for a summer treat that’s perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
– 1 seedless watermelon, diced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together watermelon, cucumber, and cream cheese until well combined.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of the watermelon mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Roll up the nori tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
4. Slice into desired thickness and serve immediately.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish.
Watermelon Gazpacho
Beat the summer heat with this refreshing twist on the classic Spanish soup, gazpacho. This watermelon gazpacho combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of tomatoes and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine watermelon, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil and vinegar.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Chill soup in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watermelon Sorbet Pie
Sweeten up your summer with this refreshing Watermelon Sorbet Pie! A unique twist on traditional pie, this dessert combines the flavors of watermelon and sorbet for a light and fruity treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup watermelon puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sorbet (your choice of flavor)
– Whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, and salt until well combined.
3. Add watermelon puree and mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought).
5. Top with sorbet, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set.
7. Allow to cool before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Watermelon Mojito Dessert
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this sweet treat combines the flavors of watermelon and mint for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup club soda
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Whipped cream and additional mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture into a large bowl to remove any excess pulp.
3. Stir in club soda and honey until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh mint leaves.
6. Spoon the dessert into individual serving cups or glasses.
7. Top with whipped cream and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Watermelon Sorbet Bars
Beat the heat with these refreshing Watermelon Sorbet Bars! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a summer party or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe watermelon, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine pureed watermelon, sugar, corn syrup, and water. Whisk until sugar is dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water; let soften for 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together softened gelatin and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in the watermelon mixture until well combined.
6. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Cut into bars and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Watermelon Tiramisu
Beat the heat with this unique and delicious dessert, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large watermelon, cubed
– 12 oz mascarpone cheese
– 8 oz whipped cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 cups ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, and granulated sugar. Mix until stiff peaks form.
3. Dip ladyfingers into brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
4. Start building the tiramisu by spreading a layer of the watermelon puree in the bottom of a serving dish. Arrange 2-3 ladyfingers on top.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by another layer of watermelon puree and ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone mixture on top.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including brewing coffee)
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing watermelon dessert recipes! From classic treats like Watermelon Sorbet and Watermelon Fruit Salad to creative twists like Watermelon Cheesecake and Watermelon Sushi Rolls, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try Watermelon Popsicles for a cool treat on-the-go or indulge in Watermelon Tart and Watermelon Granita for a decadent dessert. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for a watermelon-inspired sweet treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to make this summer one to remember!
Leave a Reply