I love finding creative ways to use every part of an ingredient, and watermelon rind candy is one of my favorite zero-waste treats! Instead of discarding the rind, I turn it into a chewy, sweet, and delicious homemade candy that’s perfect for snacking. It’s an old-fashioned recipe that transforms something often thrown away into a delightful confection.
A Sweet and Sustainable Treat
Watermelon rind might not seem like a typical candy ingredient, but once cooked in a sugar syrup, it takes on a soft, chewy texture with a lightly sweet flavor. This recipe is a wonderful way to reduce food waste while making something truly special. The candy has a texture similar to citrus peel candies and can even be coated in sugar for an extra crunch.
Another great thing about watermelon rind candy is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own, use it as a topping for desserts, or even mix it into granola. Whether you make it as a nostalgic treat or to surprise friends and family with something unique, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it only requires a few simple ingredients!
Ingredients for Watermelon Rind Candy
To make this homemade treat, you only need a few simple ingredients that turn watermelon rind into a chewy, sweet delight.
- Watermelon Rind (4 cups, peeled and cubed) – Use the white part of the rind, removing the green outer skin and any remaining pink flesh. The rind absorbs the syrup beautifully and takes on a chewy texture.
- Water (2 cups) – Needed to soften the rind before candying and to dissolve the sugar into a syrup.
- Granulated Sugar (2 cups) – The key to transforming the watermelon rind into a sweet treat. It thickens the syrup and gives the candy its signature sweetness.
How to Make Watermelon Rind Candy
This process involves softening the rind, simmering it in syrup, and drying it to create the perfect texture.
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon Rind
- Start by removing the tough, dark green skin from the watermelon rind using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
- Make sure to also scrape off any leftover pink flesh, as only the white part of the rind is used for this recipe.
- Cut the peeled rind into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Rind Until Tender
- Place the cubed watermelon rind into a large saucepan and add 2 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the rind becomes tender. You should be able to pierce it easily with a fork, but it should still hold its shape.
- Drain the cooked rind using a colander and set it aside while you prepare the syrup.
Step 3: Make the Syrup
- Using the same saucepan, add 1 cup of fresh water and the 2 cups of granulated sugar.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup begins to boil.
- Once the syrup is bubbling, carefully add the cooked watermelon rind back into the pan.
Step 4: Candy the Watermelon Rind
- Reduce the heat to low and let the rind simmer in the syrup for about 1 hour.
- Stir occasionally to ensure all pieces are coated in syrup and cook evenly.
- Over time, the rind will absorb the syrup, become translucent, and take on a glossy, candy-like appearance.
Step 5: Dry the Candied Rind
- Once the rind is fully candied, use a slotted spoon to remove the pieces from the syrup, letting any excess syrup drain off.
- Place the pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate and helps the candy dry properly.
- Let the watermelon rind dry at room temperature for several hours or overnight until it reaches the desired texture.
Step 6: Optional – Coat in Sugar for Extra Sweetness
- If you like your watermelon rind candy with a crystallized finish, roll the dried pieces in additional granulated sugar before storing them. This adds a light crunch and extra sweetness.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
- Store the watermelon rind candy in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for weeks and makes a perfect snack or homemade gift!
How Long to Cook Watermelon Rind Candy
The cooking time for watermelon rind candy varies based on how soft or chewy you prefer the texture. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages of cooking:
- Soft and Chewy – Simmer the rind in syrup for about 45 minutes until it becomes translucent but still retains a slight bite.
- Firm and Gummy-Like – Cook the rind for 1 hour until it fully absorbs the syrup and develops a denser, chewier texture.
- Dried and Sugary – If you prefer a more crystallized candy, allow the rind to dry for 12 to 24 hours before rolling it in sugar.
Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the firmer the texture will become.
How to Store Watermelon Rind Candy
Once your watermelon rind candy is completely dried, proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Short-Term Storage
- Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent pieces from sticking together.
Refrigeration Option
- If you live in a warm or humid climate, store the candy in the refrigerator to keep it from becoming too sticky.
- It will last for about 1 month when stored properly.
Freezing Watermelon Rind Candy
- For long-term storage, freeze the candy in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy, let it come to room temperature before eating.
Tips for Perfect Watermelon Rind Candy
- Use Fresh Rind – The fresher the watermelon, the better the texture of the candy. Avoid rinds that are too soft or have been sitting out for too long.
- Cut Evenly – Uniform-sized cubes ensure the rind cooks evenly, creating a consistent chewy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step – Letting the candy dry for several hours prevents it from becoming overly sticky.
- Experiment with Flavors – Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the syrup for extra depth of flavor.
- Coat in Sugar Last – If rolling in granulated sugar, make sure the candy is completely dry to avoid a sticky mess.
Watermelon Rind Candy
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups of candy 1x
Description
This Watermelon Rind Candy is a delicious way to transform leftover watermelon rind into a chewy, sweet, and homemade treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a unique candy that reduces food waste while offering a delightful snack. Whether you enjoy it plain or coated in sugar, this old-fashioned candy is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes 🍉
- 2 cups water 💧
- 2 cups granulated sugar
Instructions
-
Prepare the Watermelon Rind
- Peel the green outer skin from the watermelon rind and remove any pink flesh.
- Cut the peeled rind into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
-
Cook the Rind
- In a large saucepan, combine the watermelon rind and 2 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the rind is tender.
- Drain and set aside.
-
Make the Syrup
- In the same saucepan, mix 2 cups of sugar with 1 cup of fresh water (or more to cover the rind).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
-
Candy the Rind
- Add the cooked rind to the syrup and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the rind turns translucent and the syrup thickens.
-
Dry the Candy
- Remove the candied rind with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Let it dry at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
-
Optional: Coat with Sugar
- Once dry, roll the pieces in granulated sugar for a crystallized effect.
-
Store the Candy
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cinnamon, vanilla, or citrus zest to the syrup.
- If the candy feels too sticky, let it dry longer before storing.
- This candy makes a great homemade gift!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions about Watermelon Rind Candy
1. Can I use any type of watermelon for this recipe?
Yes! Any variety of watermelon works for making rind candy. However, seedless watermelons tend to have a thicker rind, which works well for candying. The key is to use firm, fresh rind that hasn’t softened too much.
2. Why does my watermelon rind candy feel too sticky?
If your candy feels overly sticky, it might not have dried long enough. Try letting it air dry for a few more hours or overnight. If you prefer a firmer texture, roll the dried pieces in granulated sugar to help absorb excess moisture and give them a lightly crystallized finish.
3. How can I add more flavor to the candy?
You can customize the flavor by adding ingredients to the syrup while simmering. Some great additions include:
- Cinnamon sticks for a warm, spiced flavor
- Vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness
- Lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist
4. Can I use less sugar in this recipe?
While reducing sugar is possible, keep in mind that the sugar syrup helps preserve the candy and gives it the right texture. If you want a less sweet version, try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be aware that this may slightly change the texture and storage time.