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Summer days are made for making memories, and nothing says “summer fun” quite like homemade Watermelon Ice Cream. I’ll never forget the first time we made it. My kids had just wrapped up a long, hot afternoon of outdoor play, and the sun was still beating down.
My son asked for ice cream, but instead of running to the store, we got creative and turned the watermelon on our counter into something amazing. We were instantly hooked! Each scoop felt like a refreshing summer splash, and the best part? We got to share the whole experience together.
With just a few simple ingredients you probably already have, this Watermelon Ice Cream is as easy as it is delicious. As a busy mom, I love recipes that make my life easier without skimping on flavor or fun. Trust me, once you taste this, it’ll become your new go-to summer treat—turning every scoop into a moment worth savoring.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Watermelon Ice Cream Recipe?
Ever stare down a half-eaten watermelon and think, “What now?” Well, turning it into Watermelon Ice Cream is the ultimate game-changer. This recipe is spot-on for busy families who want to keep mealtime fun and sweet!—literally!
It’s the perfect way to capture that summer vibe and turn your kitchen into a fun, refreshing hangout spot. I love making this in the late afternoon; by dinnertime, it’s ready to cool everyone off after a hot day. This recipe is also awesome because it lets the watermelon’s natural sweetness shine, so you can cut back on sugar without sacrificing flavor.
And let’s be real, watermelons are super versatile—use up the rest for fruit salads, smoothies, or a hydrating snack while you’re at it! It’s quick, practical, and a great way to make memories with the fam.
How to Make Watermelon Ice Cream?
Alright, folks, if you’re lookin’ to chill out with a treat that screams summer, you gotta try this watermelon ice cream! It’s the perfect mix of juicy, sweet watermelon and creamy goodness; trust me, it will hit differently.
No fancy ice cream machine needed—just a few simple steps and you’ve got yourself a homemade ice cream that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Let’s dive in and make this happen! 😎🍧
Step 1: Prep Your Watermelon
First things first—grab that half watermelon and get ready for some fun! Cut the watermelon in half and scoop out all the juicy fruit from the inside. Make sure to get every last bit, and don’t worry if things get a little messy—it’s all part of the experience.
Once you’ve got all the fruit out, it’s time to juice it. Squeeze out all that sweet goodness until you’ve got a nice amount of watermelon juice ready to go.
Step 2: Boil the Watermelon Juice
Pour the fresh watermelon juice into a saucepan and crank up the heat to medium until it starts to boil. Let it bubble away for a few minutes to concentrate the flavor, making it even more delicious.
After it’s boiled, set the pan aside to let the juice cool down completely. This step is crucial—it’s what will give your ice cream that punchy watermelon taste.
Step 3: Whip the Cream to Perfection
In a large mixing bowl, toss in 700 ml of heavy cream and 8 g of vanilla sugar. Now, it’s time to whip it—literally! Use an electric mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk and whip until the cream gets thick and forms soft peaks. You want it light and fluffy but not too stiff. This creamy base is what dreams are made of!
Step 4: Mix in the Watermelon Magic
After the watermelon juice has cooled, slowly drizzle it into the whipped cream, keeping that whisk moving the whole time. Go slow here—you want everything to blend perfectly. The creamy texture mixed with the fruity juice will make your ice cream base super smooth and flavorful.
Step 5: Get Creative with the Watermelon Peel
Take one-half of the empty watermelon peel and turn it into your natural, eco-friendly ice cream bowl. How cool is that? Pour the ice cream mixture into the peel, spreading it evenly so it fills up nicely. Not only does this look awesome, but it also makes serving a breeze.
Step 6: Chill Out and Freeze
Place your filled watermelon peel into the freezer. Let it chill for about 2-3 hours or until the ice cream is fully set. The waiting game might be tough, but trust me, it’ll be so worth it!
Step 7: Scoop and Serve
When the ice cream is firm and ready, scoop it out and serve it up. Whether you’re dishing it into cones or bowls, this watermelon ice cream is sure to be a hit. It’s creamy, fruity, and the perfect way to cool down on a hot day!
Ingredients
Here’s a quick look at the simple ingredients you’ll need to whip up this refreshing Watermelon Ice Cream:
- 1/2 medium watermelon
- 700 ml heavy cream
- 8 g vanilla sugar
These are everyday items that you might have in your pantry or can easily find at the grocery store.
How to Serve Watermelon Ice Cream?
Once your Watermelon Ice Cream has reached that perfect, fluffy-yet-firm consistency, it’s time to get served! For a fun and Insta-worthy presentation, scoop it into cute bowls, or go classic with a crispy sugar cone.
If you’re feeling extra, sprinkle a little sea salt on top to bring out that sweet watermelon flavor and finish it off with a sprig of mint for a fresh vibe and a burst of color.
This watermelon frozen dessert is perfect for all kinds of occasions—from casual backyard BBQs to chill evenings on the porch. Serve it with a juicy slice of watermelon for a double dose of summer goodness or pair it with rich, fudgy brownies for a next-level dessert combo. Trust me, your guests will be totally blown away by your creativity and the flavor mash-up!
How to Store Watermelon Ice Cream?
If you find yourself with some leftovers (which is rare, I can attest!), storing your Watermelon Ice Cream is simple. Keep it in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain that creamy texture.
It’s best consumed within a week or two, but it should hold up nicely if stored correctly. You can also scoop some out and use it on top of cold drinks or smoothies for an extra cool treat!
Tips to Make Watermelon Ice Cream
Wanna make sure your Watermelon Ice Cream comes out next-level every time? Here are some awesome tips that will have you serving up the creamiest, freshest, and most flavorful watermelon ice cream on the block!
- Pick the Sweetest Watermelon: For the best watermelon ice cream, you gotta start with a sweet, ripe watermelon. The riper the melon, the sweeter the flavor—it’s like the base for the perfect ice cream! Make sure to pick one with a vibrant red color and no soft spots. A good melon will make all the difference in your frozen treat.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Watermelon is naturally sweet, so don’t go crazy with the sugar. Start with about ¼ cup of sugar and taste-test. If you like your ice cream a bit sweeter, add more little by little until it’s just right for you. Pro tip: If your watermelon isn’t as sweet as you hoped, you can use a bit more sugar to balance it out.
- Add Zesty or Unique Flavors: Take your watermelon frozen dessert to the next level with a burst of other flavors! A little splash of lemon juice gives it a zesty kick that balances the sweetness. Or, toss in a bit of vanilla extract for a warm, cozy vibe. You could even try a dash of mint for a cool, refreshing twist. Experimenting with these flavors makes your ice cream feel like it’s from a gourmet shop!
- Chill the Mix Before Freezing: Want your ice cream to be extra creamy? Let your watermelon ice cream mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before you pop it in the ice cream maker. This allows the flavors to blend and helps the ice cream firm up more evenly as it freezes.
- Strain the Watermelon Juice: To make your ice cream extra smooth and creamy, strain the watermelon juice before adding it to your cream mixture. This step helps remove the pulp and seeds, leaving you with a silky-smooth texture. A mesh strainer or cheesecloth works best for this!
- Use Full-Fat Cream for Richness: When making this ice cream and watermelon combo, use heavy cream with a high-fat content (at least 33%). This will give your watermelon ice cream a smooth and rich texture that makes every bite feel luxurious. Don’t skimp on the fat here—it’s key to that perfect creamy consistency!
- Freeze Your Ice Cream in Layers: To get that nice, soft-serve texture, freeze your ice cream in layers. After each round of churning, transfer the ice cream into a container, smooth it out, and pop it back into the freezer. This helps maintain that creamy texture while giving it time to firm up without freezing solid.
- Top It Off with a Crunch: Want to add a little extra oomph to your watermelon ice cream? Top it with some crunchy elements like chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios are a great match) or crumbled cookies. The crunch adds a fun contrast to the creamy, soft ice cream, making every bite a new experience.
- Make It a Family Fun Event: Not only is making watermelon ice cream a blast, but it’s also a great way to get the whole family involved! Have kids help scoop out the melon or mix the ingredients. It’s a perfect way to make memories while enjoying a cool treat together. This summer, make it a tradition to whip up this delicious ice cream and get everyone in on the action!
And remember, this isn’t just for enjoying on hot days. Make it a family event, and get everyone involved in the process—this isn’t just food; it’s a summer adventure!
Customizing Your Watermelon Ice Cream 🍉🍦
Looking for ways to make this watermelon ice cream fit your dietary needs? You’re in luck—this recipe is super versatile! If you’re sticking to a gluten-free lifestyle, you’re already in the clear. All the ingredients in this watermelon ice cream are naturally gluten-free, so no substitutions needed there.
But if you’re going for a vegan version, no worries! Just ditch the heavy cream and go for coconut cream instead! The coconut flavor pairs perfectly with the fresh watermelon, giving you a creamy, tropical ice cream that’ll make everyone do a double-take. It’s the perfect way to turn this frozen treat into a dreamy dessert that works for just about any diet. 🌱✨
Perfect Pairings for Watermelon Ice Cream 🍉🍫
Wondering what to pair with your watermelon ice cream to really elevate the experience? For a full-on summer meal, serve this ice cream alongside some grilled meats or a light, refreshing, cold pasta salad. The contrast between the savory dishes and the sweetness of the ice cream is a match made in heaven.
If you’re heading out for a picnic, bring along your watermelon ice cream—it’s bound to steal the show. Serve it with some homemade iced tea or a big pitcher of watermelon lemonade for the ultimate refreshing combo.
Now, let’s talk indulgent pairings. If you really want to go all out, why not serve your watermelon ice cream with a slice of decadent chocolate cake or some fudgy brownies? The rich, chocolatey flavors complement the fruity sweetness of the watermelon perfectly, creating a dessert experience that’s off the charts.
No doubt, you can’t go wrong with ice cream and watermelon paired with your favorite treats—it’s a match made in dessert heaven. 🍫🍰
Time to Get Your Scoop On!
Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to get that watermelon ice cream poppin’! 🧊🍉 Whether you’re chillin’ in the backyard or throwin’ a last-minute summer party, this treat is gonna be the star of the show. So grab your melon, get your scoop on, and make some memories that’ll stick around long after the ice cream’s gone.
And hey, don’t just take my word for it—give this a try and let me know how it turned out! Tag me on IG with your epic watermelon ice cream pics, or drop a comment below. You got it! I’m really excited to see how it turns out!😎🍦 Let me know if you need any more tweaks.👇✨
FAQs for Watermelon Ice Cream
Got some burning questions about making this bomb Watermelon Ice Cream? No worries, we’ve got the answers! We’ve got you covered on everything from ingredient swaps to how long this frozen treat lasts, so you can crush this ice cream recipe like a boss!
Do I need an ice cream maker to make Watermelon Ice Cream?
Nope, you don’t need one! This watermelon ice cream recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker at all. Simply pour the watermelon mix into a shallow container, pop it in the freezer, and stir it every 30-60 minutes. This helps keep those ice crystals from taking over and gives you that smooth, creamy texture. Keep it up until it’s nice and firm—super simple!
How long does Watermelon Ice Cream last in the freezer?
When stored in an airtight container, your watermelon frozen dessert will stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. Just be sure to seal it tight to avoid freezer burn so your ice cream stays smooth and tasty!
Can I use any type of watermelon?
Yep, you can use any kind of watermelon you like! While seedless watermelons are more convenient, a seeded watermelon will work just fine. Just be sure to remove those seeds so you get that perfect, creamy texture we all love in ice cream.
Can I use something other than heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or yogurt, though the texture might be a little different. For a vegan-friendly version, coconut cream is a killer substitute. It adds a rich, tropical vibe that blends beautifully with the watermelon!
Can I add other fruits to my watermelon ice cream?
Definitely! Watermelon pairs well with a bunch of fruits, so feel free to throw in a handful of berries, mango, or even a splash of citrus. This gives you endless flavor combos to play around with and make the dessert your own!
How can I make my Watermelon Ice Cream less icy?
The secret to creamy ice cream is making sure you’re stirring the mixture often as it freezes. The more you stir, the fewer ice crystals form, giving you that perfect creamy texture. If you want an even smoother texture, you can also add a little bit of alcohol (like a splash of vodka or rum) to lower the freezing point, but don’t overdo it!
Can I make this recipe without added sugar?
Yes, if you prefer a no-sugar version, you can skip the added sugar and rely on the natural sweetness of the watermelon. Just keep in mind, the texture might be slightly different, but it’ll still taste refreshing and delicious!
Recipe Card – Watermelon Ice Cream
3-Ingredient No-Machine Watermelon Ice Cream: Simple & Delicious!
Make creamy watermelon ice cream at home! This quick, 3-ingredient recipe is healthy, delicious, perfect for summer, and requires no ice cream maker!
6
servings10
minutes5
minutes300
kcal2
hours15
minutesKeep your screen On! You don't want to miss anything
Ingredients You’ll Need!
1/2 medium watermelon
700 ml heavy cream
8 g vanilla sugar
Recommended Products
Cuisinart Professional Stainless Saucepan with CoverGood Quality!
Hand MixerI love it! Super Handy
Ice Cream ScoopBest ice cream scoop I’ve ever used!
OXO Good Grips Mixing Bowl SetBest for brining and marinating!
Freezer-friendly ice cream containerPerfect for Home Made Ice Cream!
Organic Heavy CreamAlways a favorite!
Organic Vanilla Bean SugarDelicious!
Steps to Follow!
- Cut the watermelon in half.
- Remove all the fruit from the inside.
- Squeeze the fruit to extract the juice.
- Boil the juice, then let it cool down.
- In a separate bowl, toss in the heavy cream and vanilla sugar, and whip the mixture until it is thick and creamy.
- Slowly mix in the cooled watermelon syrup while continuing to whisk.
- Take the watermelon peel and pour the ice cream mixture into it.
- Let it freeze.
- Scoop it out and serve!
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