The summer heat has a way of slowing everything down except the craving for something icy and naturally sweet. This Watermelon Granita has become one of my favorite warm-weather habits.
It’s not just a pretty, ruby-red dessert; it’s a cool, spoonable treat that’s low in calories, hydrating, and perfect for those watching their sugar intake without missing out on flavor. What makes this granita really shine is how incredibly simple and refreshing it is.
With just three ingredients juicy watermelon, a hint of citrus from orange juice, and a sprinkle of sugar it delivers bright, clean flavor in every icy bite. The texture is light and fluffy, almost like flavored snow, and it melts beautifully on your tongue without being overly sweet.
And the best part? It takes almost no effort to make, but looks and tastes like a thoughtful, handcrafted dessert. Pair it with Homemade Strawberry Yogurt for a creamy contrast or enjoy it next to a chilled glass of Watermelon Lemonade for an all-out fruit-forward fiesta.
Tried it your way? I’d love to know share your favorite twists in the comments below!
My Favorite Things About This Recipe!
- It saved my summer sanity: I first made this during a brutal heatwave, and honestly, it felt like a little miracle in a bowl. No stove, no sweat just pure, cooling bliss. It instantly made me feel like I was treating myself, without any effort.
- It fits perfectly into my healthy-eating lifestyle: This granita is naturally sweet, low in calories, and made with just three wholesome ingredients. It satisfies my sugar cravings without wrecking my wellness goals and that’s a rare win.
- It’s easy to customize and never gets boring: Over time, I’ve tossed in a few mint leaves, a squeeze of lime, or even a sprinkle of chili salt. Every version brings a new twist, and every one is a hit.
- It’s my go-to party trick: At summer dinners, it steals the show. Guests assume it’s some fancy sorbet—but really, it’s just frozen watermelon and a little citrus magic.
- It hydrates while it delights: Watermelon is over 90% water and packed with antioxidants, so this dish cools you down and gives your body a boost. Dessert that does more? Yes, please.
Watermelon Granita Recipe
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Fine Mesh Strainer (optional)
- Shallow freezer-safe dish (like a baking tray)
- Fork (for scraping granita)
- Spoon for serving
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1.3 kg watermelon
- ⅓ cup Sugar
- 1 orange
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon into chunks and remove any seeds.
- Blend the watermelon until smooth.
- Add orange juice and sugar to the blender; blend again.
- (Optional) Strain the mixture for a smoother texture.
- Pour into a shallow dish and freeze for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the icy edges.
- Repeat scraping every 30–60 minutes for 3–4 hours.
- Serve once the texture is fluffy and fully frozen.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 118kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sugar | 27g |
| Sodium | 2mg |
Time For Tips!
- Use overripe watermelon – If your watermelon is slightly mushy or super sweet, it’s perfect for granita. The natural sugars are more concentrated, which boosts flavor and texture.
- Add a tiny pinch of salt – It won’t make it salty, but just a pinch brings out the watermelon’s natural sweetness and gives the flavor more depth.
- Scrape with care, not force – When freezing, don’t just chip at the surface. Use a gentle raking motion with a fork to create soft, fluffy flakes. Think snow, not ice chunks.
- Chill your dish beforehand – Pop your tray or container into the freezer 15–20 minutes before pouring in the mixture. This helps it freeze evenly from the start.
- Strain only if needed – If you love a little texture, skip the straining step. But if you’re going for a silky, sorbet-like finish, strain it right after blending.
- Zest the orange before juicing – A touch of orange zest added to the mix gives the granita an unexpected citrusy lift without changing the base flavor.
Quick Questions?
Q. Can I make Watermelon Granita without sugar?
Ans: Yes! If your watermelon is sweet enough, feel free to skip the sugar or replace it with honey, maple syrup, or stevia.
Q. How long does Watermelon Granita last in the freezer?
Ans: It stays good for about a week. Just scrape it again before serving to refresh the texture.
Q. Can I use frozen watermelon chunks?
Ans: You can, but thaw them slightly before blending for a smoother mixture. It may freeze a bit faster too.
Q. What if my granita freezes solid?
Ans: No worries! Let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes, then gently scrape it with a fork to fluff it back up.
Q. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Ans: Absolutely! It’s sweet, fun to eat, and has no artificial ingredients kids love it.
Q. Can I add alcohol to it?
Ans: Yes! A splash of vodka or rum turns this into a refreshing adult slushie. Just don’t add too much or it won’t freeze properly.
