Impress your guests with this stunning, refreshing Watermelon Fruit Jelly Cake! A hollowed-out watermelon filled with a vibrant mix of fresh berries and grapes, set in a clear, sweet gelatin. The perfect healthy, show-stopping dessert for summer BBQs and celebrations.
Watermelon Fruit Jelly Cake
Ingredients
- 1 Medium Watermelon (seedless preferred)
- Fresh Fruit Mix: * Strawberries (sliced)
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Raspberries
- Green Grapes
- Jelly Mixture:
- 4 packets (approx. 28g) Unflavored Gelatin
- 1 cup Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups Boiling Water
- 2 cups Cold Water (or white grape juice for extra flavor)
Preparation Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit:
In a large bowl, combine your strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and grapes. Toss gently and set aside.
2. Hollow the Watermelon:
Slice a small piece off the bottom of the watermelon so it sits flat. Cut off the top (about 1/4 of the way down). Using a large scoop or spoon, remove all the red flesh until the watermelon is completely hollowed out (save the fruit for snacking!).
3. Fill with Berries:
Pack the mixed berries and grapes tightly into the hollowed watermelon shell until it is nearly full.
4. Make the Gelatin:
In a large pot or heat-safe bowl, whisk the unflavored gelatin with sugar. Pour in the boiling water and whisk constantly until the gelatin and sugar are fully dissolved. Stir in the cold water (or juice).
5. Pour and Set:
Slowly pour the gelatin mixture into the watermelon over the fruit until it reaches the top. Place the watermelon in a bowl to keep it upright and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours (overnight is best) until the jelly is completely firm.
6. Slice and Serve:
Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the watermelon into thick wedges. The fruit will be beautifully suspended in the clear jelly!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin C: 45% DV
- Sugars: 18g (mostly natural from fruit)
Pro Tips
- Tight Packing: Ensure you pack the fruit tightly. This prevents the berries from floating to the top and ensures every slice is filled with fruit.
- Clarity: If using juice for the liquid, use a light-colored juice like white grape or apple to keep the “stained glass” look of the suspended fruit.
- Knife Prep: Use a very sharp, long knife to slice the cake. Wiping the blade with warm water between slices will give you the cleanest edges.
Variations
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple, mango, and kiwi inside the watermelon for a tropical flavor profile.
- Adult Version: Replace 1 cup of the cold water with vodka or white rum for a “boozy” watermelon jelly treat.
- Red Jelly: Use a flavored strawberry or raspberry gelatin instead of unflavored for a bright red, monochromatic look.
