2-ingredient Watermelon Gelato Recipe

There’s something magical about the refreshing sweetness of watermelon on a hot summer day. When you turn that juicy fruit into a creamy gelato with just two simple ingredients, you get a dessert that feels both indulgent and effortless.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe one scorching afternoon when my kids begged for ice cream, and the freezer was nearly empty. With only a ripe watermelon and a can of sweetened condensed milk on hand, a new family favorite was born. Now it’s our go-to treat whenever the temperatures rise.

Why You'll Love This 2-Ingredient Watermelon Gelato

Get ready to fall head over heels for this incredibly simple and satisfying frozen treat. This 2-Ingredient Watermelon Gelato will become your summertime staple for several reasons.

First, it's unbelievably easy to make. With no need for an ice cream maker or complicated steps, you can have this ready for the freezer in under 10 minutes. Just blend, pour, and freeze—perfect for even the busiest schedules.

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Watermelon is often one of the most affordable fruits during its peak season, and sweetened condensed milk is a pantry staple. You can whip up a whole batch for just a few dollars, making it a great option for families or gatherings.

Another huge plus is how kid-friendly it is. Because it contains no added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, parents can feel good about serving it to little ones. My kids love helping blend the ingredients, making it a fun and tasty kitchen activity.

Finally, this gelato is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for dairy-free or vegan diets with simple swaps, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this gelato’s creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor lies in the careful balance of its two simple ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each one shine.

The star of the show is fresh watermelon. Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best results. A perfectly ripe watermelon will be heavy for its size, with a deep hollow sound when tapped. The flesh should be vibrant and juicy, providing the ideal natural sweetness and bright color for your gelato.

The supporting player is sweetened condensed milk. This thick, rich ingredient adds creaminess and sweetness while preventing ice crystals from forming, giving your gelato a smooth, scoopable texture straight from the freezer. If you prefer a slightly lighter sweetness, you can adjust the amount to taste.

No fancy equipment is required for this recipe. All you need is a good blender or food processor to puree the ingredients until silky smooth, and a freezer-safe container to store and freeze the gelato.

How To Make This 2-Ingredient Watermelon Gelato

Creating this luscious gelato couldn’t be simpler, and the process is surprisingly fun.

Start by cutting your watermelon into chunks, removing any stray seeds. Measure out about four cups of cubed watermelon, which will provide the perfect ratio of fruit to condensed milk.

Next, place the watermelon cubes into your blender or food processor. Blend on high speed until the fruit is completely pureed. You’re looking for a smooth, liquid consistency with no remaining chunks.

Once the watermelon is pureed, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Blend the mixture again for about 30 seconds to fully incorporate the two ingredients. You should end up with a creamy, homogenous mixture that’s slightly thick and beautifully pink.

Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing out the top with a spatula to ensure an even freeze. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Place the container in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results. When ready to serve, let the gelato sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop.

Storage Options

This watermelon gelato stores beautifully in the freezer for up to two weeks. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its smooth texture and prevent freezer burn.

For longer storage, you can press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the gelato before sealing the container. This extra step helps prevent the formation of ice crystals.

If you find the gelato becomes too hard after extended freezing, simply allow it to sit on the counter for 5-10 minutes before scooping. The creamy texture will return as it softens slightly.

Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing, as this can cause the gelato to become icy and lose its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

For a dairy-free or vegan version, simply substitute the sweetened condensed milk with sweetened condensed coconut milk. It provides a similar creamy texture with a hint of coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with watermelon.

You can also experiment with adding flavor boosters like a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice or a handful of fresh mint leaves blended into the mixture. Both add a refreshing twist that enhances the watermelon’s natural sweetness.

If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly, or replace part of it with full-fat coconut milk for a lighter texture.

For a fun adult twist, try blending in a splash of vodka or rum before freezing. The alcohol not only adds a bit of grown-up flair but also helps keep the gelato slightly softer and easier to scoop.

Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your preferences. With such a simple base, the possibilities are endless, and each variation adds its own unique charm to this summertime favorite.

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