Description
This Summer Refreshing Watermelon Cake is a dazzling, no-bake dessert perfect for warm weather celebrations. With its vibrant layers of juicy watermelon, tangy sweetened Greek yogurt, and a colorful medley of fresh berries and kiwi, this cake delivers a light, naturally sweet treat that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- Watermelon:
- 1 medium seedless round watermelon (approximately 6–8 lbs)
- Creamy Filling:
- 2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fruit Layer & Garnish:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), divided
- 1 kiwi, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- A handful (about 10–12) fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon:
- Wash the watermelon thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice off a thin, level piece from the bottom so the watermelon sits flat.
- Carefully cut off the top (about 1–1.5 inches) to create a “lid.”
- Using a melon baller or spoon, scoop out most of the red flesh, leaving about a 1-inch thick border all around and a small base at the bottom. Reserve the scooped-out watermelon in a bowl.
Prepare the Creamy Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.
Assemble the Cake:
(Optional) For an extra fruity layer, stir half of the mixed berries into the reserved watermelon flesh and gently spoon a thin layer of this mixture onto the bottom of the hollowed-out watermelon.
- Evenly fill the hollowed center of the watermelon with the sweetened yogurt mixture.
- Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
Garnish:
- Arrange the remaining fresh berries and kiwi slices artfully on top of the yogurt layer.
- Drizzle the fresh lime juice over the garnish.
- Sprinkle the mint leaves over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Chill & Serve:
- Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- When ready to serve, slice the watermelon cake into wedges, ensuring each piece includes a bit of the crispy watermelon rind along with the creamy center and fresh fruit topping.
Notes
- Variations: For a dairy-free version, substitute full-fat Greek yogurt with a thick coconut cream (whipped and lightly sweetened). You can also experiment with different fruit combinations based on seasonal availability.
- Tips:
- Use a seedless, ripe watermelon for the best flavor and ease of carving.
- If you prefer a sweeter filling, adjust the honey to taste.
- For a decorative twist, consider using a melon baller to create uniform watermelon balls from the scooped flesh, and serve them on the side.
- Allergies/Intolerances: This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian. Those with dairy sensitivities can opt for a dairy-free alternative as mentioned above.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert on hot summer days, or as a festive centerpiece at outdoor gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour of chilling)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of the cake
- Calories: ~120 Kcal
- Sugar: ~17 g
- Sodium: ~15 mg
- Fat: ~2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~25 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Protein: ~5 g
- Cholesterol: ~3 mg