This watermelon daiquiri is a light, icy drink that captures the essence of summer in every sip. Sweet frozen watermelon, bright lime juice, and smooth rum come together in a perfectly balanced frozen cocktail that is refreshing, simple, and ideal for warm-weather gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients. The frozen watermelon gives the drink a naturally thick and slushy texture without relying on heavy syrups. It is refreshing, not overly sweet, and easy to adjust to your preferred level of tartness or sweetness. Whether you are hosting guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this daiquiri feels special without being complicated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Seedless watermelon, cut into cubes and frozen: 3 cups
Ice cubes: 1 cup
White rum: ½ cup
Fresh lime juice: ¼ cup
Watermelon juice: ¼ cup
Powdered sugar: 2 tablespoons
Kosher salt: ⅛ teaspoon
Lime wheels, for garnish: optional

Directions

Arrange the watermelon cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until completely firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Add the frozen watermelon cubes, ice cubes, white rum, fresh lime juice, watermelon juice, powdered sugar, and kosher salt to a high-speed blender.

Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and thick, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed.

Pour the daiquiri into chilled glasses. Garnish with lime wheels if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 drinks

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Freezing time: 4 hours
Total time: Approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes

Variations

For a sweeter drink, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar or a splash of simple syrup.
For a tangier flavor, increase the lime juice slightly.
For a smoother texture, reduce the ice and rely more on frozen watermelon.
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and replace it with extra watermelon juice or cold sparkling water.

Storage/Reheating

This watermelon daiquiri is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If you need to store it briefly, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and freeze. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes until slightly softened, then reblend to restore the slushy texture.

Frozen watermelon cubes can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for up to one month, making last-minute preparation quick and easy.

FAQs

Can I make this without freezing the watermelon?

Yes, but the drink will be thinner. Use extra ice to achieve a slushy consistency.

What type of rum works best?

A light or white rum works best because it allows the watermelon flavor to shine.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended, but bottled lime juice can be used if necessary.

Is powdered sugar required?

Powdered sugar blends more easily, but simple syrup can be used as a substitute.

Can I make this drink less sweet?

Yes, reduce the powdered sugar or omit it entirely if the watermelon is very sweet.

How do I make my own watermelon juice?

Blend fresh watermelon and strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove excess pulp.

Can this be made ahead for a party?

It is best made fresh, but you can freeze the blended mixture and reblend before serving.

Why add salt to a sweet drink?

A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.

Can I skip the ice?

Yes, if your watermelon is fully frozen, you can reduce or skip the ice.

What glass is best for serving?

Rocks glasses or stemless cocktail glasses work well for this frozen drink.

Conclusion

This watermelon daiquiri is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. With minimal ingredients and an easy blending process, it delivers a cool, balanced drink that is perfect for relaxing afternoons or festive gatherings. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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