Watermelon Shaved Ice Recipe – Bianca Zapatka

This watermelon shaved ice is the ultimate summer snack: only 3 ingredients, no kitchen gadgets needed, vegan & refreshing. Simply freeze melon chunks, grate them, add lime and syrup – and your watermelon shaved ice is ready. Perfect for hot days, parties, or as a light dessert. (Get the printable recipe below 👇🏻)

Watermelon Shaved Ice Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect refreshing summer dessert, this watermelon shaved ice will be your new favorite. It’s light, fruity, and melts in your mouth – made with just 3 simple ingredients and no blender required. It is inspired by the new food trend “Kakigōri” – a traditional Japanese summer dessert made from finely shaved ice.
All you need is a freezer and a coarse grater to turn fresh watermelon into fluffy, snow-like ice.

Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Shaved Ice

• Only 3 ingredients – no artificial additives
• Vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free
• Naturally hydrating & low in calories
• No special equipment – ​​just a grater
• Ready in minutes once frozen

Watermelon is about 90% water and naturally sweet, making it a guilt-free treat for hot summer days.

How to Make Watermelon Shaved Ice – Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

As always, I recommend watching the recipe video and reading through this step-by-step guide first. You’ll find the complete recipe with exact measurements in the recipe card below!

Step 1: Freeze the watermelon

Place the chunks on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer so they don’t stick together. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until solid.

Step 2: Grate into shaved ice

Let the frozen chunks thaw for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Using a coarse kitchen or cheese grater, grate directly into serving bowls to create a fluffy, snow-like texture.

Step 3: Add toppings & serve

Drizzle with lime juice, add syrup if desired, and garnish with fresh mint. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Other fruits: Try frozen strawberries, mango, or a mix of different fruits.
• Layered shaved ice: Grate different fruits into colorful layers for a stunning presentation.
• Frozen popsicles: Pack the grated ice into popsicle molds, freeze, and enjoy as watermelon popsicles.
• Party version: Serve in glasses and top with coconut water or sparkling wine.

Storage

Best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer and thaw briefly before serving. Fluff with a fork or spoon to restore texture.

FAQ

1. Can I use watermelon with seeds?
   Yes, just remove seeds before freezing for a smoother texture.
2. Can I make this in a blender?
   Yes, but it will have a sorbet-like texture rather than the light, fluffy shaved ice effect.
3. How long does prep take?
   Just 10 minutes of hands-on time, plus freezing.

More refreshing recipes for hot summer days

Recipe video

If you try this watermelon shaved ice recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and star rating below. And if you take a photo and share it on Instagram or Facebooktag me @biancazapatka and use the hashtag #biancazapatka – I love seeing your creations. Enjoy! 🙂

IF YOU HAVE PINTEREST, YOU CAN FIND ME HERE AND PIN THE FOLLOWING PICTURE, IF YOU LIKE! 🙂