Description
Don’t toss that rind! This homemade Watermelon Rind Candy is a sweet, chewy delight made from the often-discarded white part of watermelon. Boiled in a sugar syrup and optionally flavored with spices or citrus, this candy is a zero-waste, eco-friendly alternative to store-bought treats.
Ingredients
4 cups watermelon rind, green peel and pink flesh removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water
1 tablespoon lemon juice or a few lemon slices
Optional: spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, or vanilla extract)
Optional: extra sugar for coating
Instructions
Prepare the rind: Peel off the green skin and pink flesh, leaving only the white rind. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Soften the rind: Boil in plain water for 10–15 minutes until slightly tender. Drain.
Make syrup: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and optional spices. Bring to a boil.
Cook the rind: Add the softened rinds to the syrup. Simmer gently for 45–60 minutes until translucent and infused with flavor.
Dry the candy: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Let dry for 6–12 hours or use a low-heat oven (150°F) for 1–2 hours.
Optional coating: Roll pieces in granulated sugar for a sparkly finish.
Store: Once completely dry, store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Don’t skip the peeling process—leaving green skin or pink flesh can affect texture and taste.
Try adding citrus zest, vanilla, or cinnamon for custom flavors.
Use leftover syrup in teas, drinks, or drizzle over pancakes.
For quicker drying, use a dehydrator or low-temp oven.
Great for gifting—package in mason jars with a cute ribbon!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour