Why You’ll Love Two Ingredient Watermelon Ice Cream Recipe
I love this recipe because it is incredibly simple and requires just two main ingredients. I don’t need an ice cream maker, and I can still get a smooth and creamy texture. It is naturally lower in calories, refreshing, and perfect for hot days. I also like how flexible it is since I can adjust the second ingredient depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
3 cups watermelon
1/2 cup lite canned coconut milk (or yogurt or sweetened condensed milk)
Directions
I start by cutting the watermelon into cubes and placing them in a single layer on parchment paper or foil. I freeze them for at least 3 to 4 hours until they are completely solid.
When I am ready to make the ice cream, I add half of the frozen watermelon to a food processor and blend until smooth.
I scrape down the sides, then add the coconut milk, yogurt, or sweetened condensed milk, depending on what I am using.
I add the remaining frozen watermelon and blend everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
I can enjoy it immediately for a soft-serve texture, or I freeze it for another 2 to 3 hours if I want it firmer.
If I freeze it longer, I let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving so it softens and becomes creamy again.
Servings and Timing
I get about 4 servings from this recipe. The prep time is around 10 minutes, and the freezing time is about 4 hours, making the total time approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes.
Variations
I like to swap the coconut milk with yogurt when I want a tangier flavor, or I use sweetened condensed milk for a richer and sweeter version.
I sometimes add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavor and make it even more refreshing.
For a slightly more complex taste, I blend in a few fresh mint leaves or a handful of strawberries along with the watermelon.
When I want a creamier dessert, I increase the amount of coconut milk slightly for a smoother texture.
Storage/Reheating
I store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
When it becomes too firm, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before scooping.
I do not reheat this recipe since it is meant to be served frozen.
FAQs
Can I use fresh watermelon without freezing it first?
I cannot skip freezing because it is essential for creating the ice cream texture. Fresh watermelon alone would turn into a juice instead.
What can I use instead of coconut milk?
I can use yogurt or sweetened condensed milk as alternatives. Each option gives a slightly different flavor and texture.
Do I need an ice cream maker?
I do not need an ice cream maker. A food processor or high-powered blender works perfectly.
Why is my ice cream not creamy?
If my ice cream is not creamy, it may be because the watermelon was not fully frozen or I did not blend it long enough.
Can I make this dairy-free?
I can keep it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of yogurt or condensed milk.
How long can I store it?
I usually store it for up to a week, but I find it tastes best within the first few days.
Can I add sweetener?
I can add a little honey or sugar if the watermelon is not sweet enough, but I usually find it naturally sweet.
What texture should I expect?
I get a soft-serve texture when eaten immediately and a firmer scoopable texture after additional freezing.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
I can use a high-powered blender, but I may need to stop and stir more often to get everything blended smoothly.
How do I make it smoother after freezing?
I let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving so it softens and becomes creamy again.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this Two Ingredient Watermelon Ice Cream because it is simple, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. I love how it transforms frozen fruit into a creamy dessert with minimal effort. It is a perfect healthy treat that I can make anytime I want something cool and naturally sweet.
A refreshing and naturally sweet watermelon ice cream made with just two simple ingredients. This light and creamy frozen treat is perfect for hot days and requires no ice cream maker.
Author:Amy
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:4 hours 10 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Blending
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Calorie
Ingredients
3 cups watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup lite canned coconut milk (or yogurt or sweetened condensed milk)
Instructions
Cut watermelon into cubes and arrange in a single layer on parchment or foil. Freeze for 3 to 4 hours until solid.
Add half of the frozen watermelon to a food processor and blend until smooth.
Scrape down the sides and add the coconut milk, yogurt, or sweetened condensed milk.
Add the remaining frozen watermelon and blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture or freeze for 2 to 3 more hours for a firmer consistency.
If frozen longer, let sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before serving to soften.
Notes
Use yogurt for a tangier flavor or sweetened condensed milk for a richer, sweeter result.
Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
Blend in mint leaves or strawberries for flavor variations.
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Let soften before scooping if it becomes too firm.