As summer’s sun warms our days, it brings an abundance of juicy watermelons — a favorite treat that often leaves us with more than just sweet flesh. Imagine uncovering a hidden treasure in those often-discarded rinds! I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Watermelon Rind Candy, an unexpected gem that brilliantly transforms what would typically end up in the compost into a chewy, delightful treat. The combination of crunchy rinds simmered in a sweet syrup and infused with warming spices is nothing short of magical.
Every bite of this candy tantalizes the senses, with a perfect balance of sweetness, a touch of ginger warmth, and a hint of refreshing lemon zest. It’s not just a candy; it’s a testament to creativity in the kitchen! Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a unique dessert or simply wanting to reduce waste in your home, this easy-to-make treat embodies everything we love about homemade snacks. Let’s dive into the world of Watermelon Rind Candy and embrace a new way to savor summer’s finest!
Why is Watermelon Rind Candy a Must-Try?
Unique Twist: Transforming watermelon rinds into candy is a delightful way to reduce waste while indulging in something sweet.
Easy Process: With just a few simple ingredients, anyone can make this tasty treat, regardless of cooking expertise.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices like ginger and cloves with refreshing lemon zest creates a wonderfully complex taste.
Seasonal Delight: Perfect for summer gatherings, this candy will impress friends and family with its creativity and charm.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a snack, or mix it into trail mixes for an unexpected twist—it’s sure to be a conversation starter!
Watermelon Rind Candy Ingredients
• Transform your scraps into sweetness!
For the Candy Base
- Watermelon Rind – Use only the white part for the best texture and to minimize bitterness.
- Granulated Sugar – This sweetens and forms the syrupy base; consider sugar alternatives if desired.
- Water – Essential for dissolving the sugar and cooking the rind; no substitutes needed.
For Flavor Enhancement
- Ground Ginger – Adds a delightful warm spice; fresh ginger will provide an even more intense flavor.
- Ground Cloves – Introduces a rich and aromatic depth; optional but enhances flavor complexity.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness with a fragrant aroma; almond extract is a great alternative.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the whole confection; remember to zest before juicing. Lime zest can also be used as a substitute.
- Salt (optional) – Balances the sweetness; use sparingly to enhance overall flavor.
Embrace the beauty of sustainability with this delightful Watermelon Rind Candy, and make your kitchen a haven of creative treats!
How to Make Watermelon Rind Candy
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Prep Watermelon Rind: Begin by peeling and dicing the white part of the watermelon rind into small cubes, aiming for about 4 cups. This step is crucial for ensuring that your candy has the right texture.
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Prepare Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a syrupy base to enrich the rind.
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Add Ingredients: Gently stir the diced watermelon rind, ground ginger, ground cloves, and lemon zest into the syrup. This aromatic blend will create a tantalizing flavor profile that elevates your candy.
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Cook Mixture: Allow the mixture to slowly simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Take care to watch for the rind turning tender and translucent, signaling that it’s nearly ready.
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Cool and Dry: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let the candy cool in the syrup for a few hours. To finish, you may strain and allow it to dry on parchment paper for that perfect chewy texture.
Optional: For a unique twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon before cooking for a warm, comforting flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Watermelon Rind Candy is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time during busy weeks! You can peel and dice the watermelon rind up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crispness. Additionally, the syrup can be prepared ahead of time—just combine the sugar and water, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook the candy. When you’re set to finish your Watermelon Rind Candy, simply simmer the prepared rind in the cold syrup, adding spices and lemon zest as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavor with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Watermelon Rind Candy Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Watermelon Rind Candy—this recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Cinnamon Twist: Substitute ground ginger with ground cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for cooler evenings.
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Coconut Bliss: Mix in shredded coconut towards the end of cooking to infuse tropical vibes into your candy.
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Berry Burst: Introduce dried berries, like cranberries or blueberries, during the cooking process to enhance sweetness and add a chewy bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, before cooling for a satisfying crunch in every sweet piece.
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Tea Infusion: Steep a few bags of your favorite herbal tea, like chamomile or hibiscus, in the syrup to introduce layers of flavor.
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Ginger Zest: Use fresh ginger slices instead of ground ginger, providing a fresher, more intense ginger flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once dried, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the candy for an indulgent chocolate-covered treat.
How to Store and Freeze Watermelon Rind Candy
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Room Temperature: Keep your Watermelon Rind Candy in an airtight container, and it will last for up to a week at room temperature without losing its delightful chewiness.
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Fridge: For longer freshness, store the candy in the refrigerator in a sealed container; it can stay good for up to 2 weeks this way.
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Freezer: If you wish to store it for an extended period, place the candy in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: If using frozen candy, allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying. Reheat gently if you’d like, but it’s delicious served chilled straight from the fridge!
What to Serve with Watermelon Rind Candy?
As the sweet aroma of freshly made candy fills your kitchen, let’s create a delightful meal around this unique treat.
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Tea-infused Lemonade: A refreshing twist that complements the candy’s flavors beautifully. The citrus notes and hints of sweetness make it a perfect pairing.
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Spicy Mixed Nuts: These crunchy bites offer a salty contrast to the sweet candy, enhancing the taste experience with their savory flavors. A great way to elevate your snack table!
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Cheese Platter: Including soft cheeses like brie and sharp cheddar brings a rich creaminess that balances the candy’s sweetness. Serve them alongside fresh fruits for added color and flavor.
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Ginger Ale or Sparkling Water: Mixing these fizzy drinks with slices of fresh lime enhances the playful, refreshing vibe. It’s a bubbly celebration for your taste buds!
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats echo the texture of Watermelon Rind Candy, making for a delightful dessert duo. They pair well in a summery snack spread.
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Frozen Yogurt: A light and creamy finish, drizzled with honey, complements the chewy candy while adding an element of coolness. Perfect for warm days!
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Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruit: The rich bitterness of dark chocolate creates a beautiful counterbalance to the sweetness of the candy. It’s a decadent combination that everyone will love!
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Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh summer fruits brightens up the meal and adds crispness, making for a colorfully vibrant and healthful dessert option.
Expert Tips for Watermelon Rind Candy
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Peeling Perfection: Ensure you thoroughly peel the watermelon rind to remove any bitterness from the green skin that could affect the candy’s taste.
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Avoid Burning: Keep an eye on the simmering mixture, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
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Chewy Texture: If you prefer a chewier Watermelon Rind Candy, allow the mixture to cook a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for unique flavor profiles; just remember to adjust the quantity based on your tastes.
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Proper Cooling: Let the candy cool in the syrup for several hours; this step helps enhance the flavors and achieve the perfect chewy texture.
Watermelon Rind Candy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right watermelon for the rind candy?
Absolutely! The best watermelons for this recipe are those that are ripe and firm. Look for a watermelon with a uniform shape, a shiny skin, and a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. Avoid any with dark spots all over as that indicates overripeness.
How should I store Watermelon Rind Candy?
You can store your Watermelon Rind Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to keep it fresh for longer, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Watermelon Rind Candy?
Certainly! For longer storage, place your cooled candy in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my candy is too sticky?
If you find your Watermelon Rind Candy is too sticky after cooling, it might need a little more drying time. Lay the pieces on parchment paper and let them air dry for several hours. If it’s still sticky after, lightly dust the pieces with granulated sugar to help absorb excess moisture.
Is Watermelon Rind Candy safe for pets?
While watermelon itself is generally safe for dogs, the sugar and spices used in this recipe might not be ideal for their digestive systems. It’s best to keep this sweet treat just for human enjoyment. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your pet any new foods.
Can I make this candy without sugar?
Very! You can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or coconut sugar. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. If using a liquid sweetener, adjust the water content accordingly to ensure the candy sets properly.
Transform Watermelon Rind into Sweet Candy Bliss Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and dicing the white part of the watermelon rind into small cubes, aiming for about 4 cups.
- In a large saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Gently stir the diced watermelon rind, ground ginger, ground cloves, and lemon zest into the syrup.
- Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool in syrup for a few hours before drying on parchment paper.