Watermelon Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Watermelon Ice Cream is a refreshing, fruity dessert that captures the juicy sweetness of summer’s favorite fruit. This no-churn recipe is simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients, and delivers a creamy, vibrant treat that’s both kid-friendly and perfect for hot days. Its naturally bright color and subtle melon flavor make it a standout frozen dessert.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

seedless watermelonheavy whipping creamcondensed milklime juicevanilla extractsalt

directions

Cut the watermelon into chunks and remove any seeds if needed.

Puree the watermelon in a blender until smooth, then strain to remove excess pulp for a silky texture.

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

In a separate bowl, mix the watermelon puree, condensed milk, lime juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Gently fold the watermelon mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.

Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container and smooth the top.

Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.

Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesFreezing time: 6 hoursTotal time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Fold in mini chocolate chips to mimic watermelon seeds.

Add chopped mint for a fresh twist.

Swirl in strawberry or raspberry puree for extra berry flavor.

Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store Watermelon Ice Cream in a tightly sealed container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.To soften before serving, let it rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes.No reheating necessary—serve directly from the freezer once slightly softened.

FAQs

Can I use frozen watermelon?

Yes, but thaw it before pureeing to avoid icy texture in the final ice cream.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute coconut cream and dairy-free condensed milk for a vegan version.

Why do I need to strain the puree?

Straining helps remove excess water and pulp, giving you a smoother, creamier ice cream.

Can I churn this in an ice cream maker?

Yes, just skip the whipped cream step and follow your machine’s instructions for a lighter texture.

How long does it take to freeze?

A minimum of 6 hours, but overnight freezing yields the best texture.

Can I sweeten it more?

Yes, taste the mixture before freezing and add sugar or honey if desired.

Does the lime juice change the flavor?

It enhances the watermelon’s sweetness and adds a subtle tang.

Can I make it with other fruits?

Absolutely, this base works well with cantaloupe, honeydew, or berries.

Is it safe for toddlers?

Yes, it’s made with simple ingredients and no artificial additives.

Why is my ice cream icy?

Too much watermelon juice or not whipping the cream enough can lead to iciness—ensure proper consistency for both.

Conclusion

Watermelon Ice Cream is a sweet, summery indulgence that’s incredibly easy to make and wonderfully refreshing to enjoy. With its creamy texture and natural fruit flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at picnics, pool parties, or anytime you crave a frozen treat. Make a batch and keep it in your freezer for a cool bite of sunshine whenever you need it.

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