If you’ve ever wondered what to do with watermelon rinds instead of throwing them away, this recipe is the answer! Watermelon rind candy is a traditional old-fashioned treat that transforms leftover rinds into chewy, sweet, and flavorful candies. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a zero-waste recipe—perfect for sustainable cooking. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn scraps into something your family will love.
This recipe has been cherished in Southern kitchens for generations and is also found in various Asian cuisines. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, gifting homemade treats, or simply experimenting in the kitchen, this watermelon rind candy recipe is easy, fun, and rewarding.
🍉 Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves: 4–6 | Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 1 hr | Resting: Overnight)
- 4 cups watermelon rind, green skin removed & cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups sugar (or honey for a natural option)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or lime juice, for a tangy twist)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- Extra sugar for coating (optional, for a crystalized candy look)
💡 Why these ingredients? Sugar preserves and sweetens the rinds, while lemon adds brightness and balances the sweetness. Cinnamon or vanilla can add depth of flavor.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rinds
- Peel off the dark green skin with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler.
- Cut the rind into bite-sized cubes.
- Soak in water overnight for best texture (optional but recommended).
Step 2: Make the Syrup
- In a large pot, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar fully dissolves.
Step 3: Cook the Rinds
- Add the rind cubes into the boiling syrup.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 45–60 minutes, until rinds are translucent and tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Flavor & Finish
- Add vanilla or cinnamon (optional).
- Let rinds cool in syrup for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 5: Dry & Coat
- Drain the rinds and spread them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Roll in sugar if you want a crystallized finish.
- Let them dry for 6–12 hours before storing.
🌟 Expert Tips for Perfect Candy
- Clear Syrup = Clear Candy → Skim foam from the syrup for a glossy finish.
- Chewy Texture → Don’t overcook; simmer gently until translucent.
- Flavor Boost → Add orange peel, ginger, or cloves for festive versions.
- Sugar-Free Option → Use monk fruit or stevia for a healthier version.
🍬 Variations You Can Try
- Spicy Candy → Add chili powder for a sweet-heat flavor.
- Citrus Delight → Replace water with orange juice for a fruity twist.
- Holiday Style → Add nutmeg and cloves for a Christmas version.
🍽 Serving Ideas
- Serve with tea or coffee as a sweet snack.
- Use as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cakes.
- Pack in jars and gift as homemade treats.
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving ~6 pieces)
- Calories: ~180
- Carbs: 45g
- Sugar: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 6% DV
💡 Note: Nutrition varies depending on sugar coating and portion size.
⚡ Common Mistakes & Fixes
- Too Bitter → Remove ALL green skin before cooking.
- Too Hard → Overcooked; reduce simmering time.
- Too Soft → Undercooked; cook longer until translucent.
🕒 Storage & Shelf Life
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 weeks.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 month.
- Freeze (without sugar coating) for 3 months.
❓ FAQs About Watermelon Rind Candy
Q: Is watermelon rind safe to eat?
Yes! The rind is completely edible once cooked and is a good source of fiber.
Q: Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, use monk fruit, erythritol, or stevia instead of sugar.
Q: Does it taste like watermelon?
No—the candy takes on a mild, sweet flavor, similar to candied citrus peel.
Q: How long does it take to make?
Hands-on prep is about 20 minutes, but total time (with soaking & drying) may take 1–2 days.
🎉 Final Thoughts
This sweet & simple watermelon rind candy recipe is proof that sustainable cooking can be fun, creative, and delicious. Instead of throwing away rinds, you can turn them into a chewy, flavorful treat that everyone will love. Try it out this season and surprise your friends with a unique, homemade candy they’ve likely never tasted before!
