Watermelon Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Watermelon Cups are not only beautiful to look at, but they’re also easy to make and endlessly versatile. You can go sweet or savory, use them as a healthy dessert, or serve them as a fun appetizer. They’re naturally hydrating, low in calories, and full of flavor—perfect for hot days or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

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

  • Seedless watermelon (cut into thick slices)
  • Assorted fresh fruit (such as berries, kiwi, mango, grapes, or pineapple)
  • Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or cottage cheese (optional for filling)
  • Mint leaves (for garnish)
  • Honey or lime juice (optional for drizzling)

Directions

  1. Cut the watermelon into thick rounds, about 1½ to 2 inches thick.
  2. Use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut out 2–3 inch circles from each slice.
  3. With a melon baller or spoon, carefully scoop out the center of each round, leaving a base to hold the filling—creating a “cup.”
  4. Fill each cup with your choice of diced fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, or a combination of both.
  5. Garnish with a small mint leaf or a drizzle of honey or lime juice, if desired.
  6. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 watermelon cups.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Savory Cups: Fill with feta cheese, chopped cucumber, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
  • Frozen Treat: Freeze the watermelon cups for a frosty, refreshing snack.
  • Protein Boost: Add cottage cheese or Greek yogurt with granola on top.
  • Tropical Style: Fill with pineapple, mango, and shredded coconut.
  • Kid-Friendly: Use mini chocolate chips or small marshmallows for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

Watermelon Cups are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store unfilled cups and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Assembled watermelon cups should be served within a few hours to avoid excess moisture.
Do not freeze, as watermelon becomes mushy when thawed. No reheating is required.

FAQs

Can I make watermelon cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the cups and fillings separately. Assemble shortly before serving to keep them fresh.

How thick should I slice the watermelon?

Slices should be about 1½ to 2 inches thick to hold the filling without collapsing.

What can I use to cut the watermelon?

A round cookie cutter works best, but a knife and steady hand will also do the trick.

Can I use other melons?

Yes, cantaloupe or honeydew can be used the same way for variety.

What kind of yogurt works best?

Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, making it ideal for staying in place inside the cups.

Can kids help make these?

Absolutely! Kids can help scoop, fill, and decorate their own cups.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, watermelon cups are naturally gluten-free. Just check your toppings if needed.

Can I serve them as dessert?

Definitely. They’re sweet, refreshing, and can be made to look like mini fruit tarts.

Can I add herbs or spices?

Yes, mint, basil, or a dash of chili-lime seasoning can elevate the flavor.

How do I keep the watermelon cups from getting soggy?

Scoop them out close to serving time and avoid overfilling with very juicy fruit.

Conclusion

Watermelon Cups are a fresh, fun, and flavorful way to enjoy one of summer’s favorite fruits. Easy to prepare, beautiful to present, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for everything from casual snacks to elegant entertaining. Whether sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, these little cups are sure to be a refreshing hit.

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Watermelon Cups

Watermelon Cups

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Watermelon Cups are refreshing bite-sized treats made by filling hollowed-out watermelon rounds with fruit, yogurt, or savory toppings. They’re perfect for summer parties, healthy snacks, or colorful appetizers.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 watermelon cups
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1 seedless watermelon (cut into 2 inch thick slices)
  • 1 cup assorted fresh fruit (berries, kiwi, mango, grapes, pineapple, etc.)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or cottage cheese (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp honey or lime juice (optional for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Cut watermelon into thick slices, about 1½ to 2 inches thick.
  2. Use a 2–3 inch round cookie cutter or knife to cut out small rounds from each slice.
  3. With a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out the center of each round to form a cup, leaving the bottom intact.
  4. Fill each cup with diced fresh fruit, yogurt, or both.
  5. Garnish with mint leaves and drizzle with honey or lime juice if desired.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Assemble close to serving time to avoid soggy cups.
  • Use thick Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to avoid excess liquid.
  • Try savory fillings like feta, cucumber, and herbs for a unique twist.
  • Prep cups and toppings separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 watermelon cup
  • Calories: 35
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
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