Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This watermelon pie is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of summer flavors. The watermelon-flavored Jell-O gives the pie its vibrant color and a refreshing taste, while the whipped topping adds creaminess and smooth texture. It’s a no-bake dessert that comes together in just a few minutes, then simply needs time to chill in the fridge. With its cool, fruity flavor and light texture, it’s the perfect dessert to enjoy on a hot day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 (3 ounce) package watermelon-flavored Jell-O
- ¼ cup hot water
- 1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups diced watermelon
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the Jell-O and hot water. Stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Once cooled, fold the thawed whipped topping and diced watermelon into the gelatin mixture, ensuring it’s well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust.
- Refrigerate the pie for about 3 to 4 hours, or until set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Additional Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (chilling)
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Use other fruit: While watermelon is traditional, you can try adding other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a colorful twist.
- Try a different crust: If you’re not a fan of graham cracker crust, a cookie crust (such as from chocolate cookies or vanilla wafers) can give a different flavor to complement the pie.
- Add a topping: For extra texture, you can sprinkle crushed graham crackers, coconut, or a few extra fresh watermelon chunks on top before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep it tightly covered to maintain its freshness.
- Reheating: This is a no-bake pie, so it should always be served chilled. Do not reheat.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is perfect for making ahead. Just refrigerate it for 3 to 4 hours (or longer) until set.
2. Can I use fresh watermelon instead of diced watermelon?
Yes, fresh watermelon works great for this recipe. Just make sure to dice it into small pieces so it mixes well into the gelatin.
3. Can I make this pie without a graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can use any prepared pie crust you prefer, such as a cookie crust or a shortbread crust.
4. Can I use sugar-free Jell-O?
Yes, you can substitute the watermelon-flavored Jell-O with a sugar-free version if you prefer.
5. Is this pie gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free graham cracker crust, this pie can easily be made gluten-free.
6. Can I substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. You may need to stabilize it with a little bit of gelatin or cornstarch to achieve the same consistency.
7. How can I make the pie firmer?
If you want the pie to be firmer, you can add a little more Jell-O or reduce the amount of whipped topping to adjust the texture.
8. Can I freeze this pie?
While this pie can be frozen, it’s best served fresh after chilling in the refrigerator to maintain the creamy texture.
9. Can I add a layer of fruit at the bottom of the crust?
Yes, you can layer sliced watermelon or any other fruit at the bottom of the crust before pouring the Jell-O mixture over it for an added fruity bite.
10. Can I make this pie without a crust?
Yes, you can skip the crust altogether and turn this into a parfait by layering the mixture in serving glasses for an elegant, crustless version.
Conclusion
This watermelon pie is a simple yet stunning dessert that brings the refreshing flavors of summer right to your table. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving something light and sweet. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this dessert is a crowd-pleasing treat that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Watermelon Pie Recipe
This Watermelon Pie is a refreshing, no-bake summer dessert with watermelon-flavored Jell-O, whipped topping, and fresh watermelon, all in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s quick to make and perfect for hot weather.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 (3 ounce) package watermelon-flavored Jell-O
¼ cup hot water
1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
2 cups diced watermelon
1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the Jell-O and hot water. Stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Once cooled, fold the thawed whipped topping and diced watermelon into the gelatin mixture, ensuring it’s well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust.
- Refrigerate the pie for about 3 to 4 hours, or until set.
Notes
For a fruity twist, try adding other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches.
If you’re not a fan of graham cracker crust, use a cookie crust or shortbread crust for a different flavor.
For added texture, top the pie with crushed graham crackers or extra fresh watermelon chunks before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg