Fresh Watermelon Cake (No Sugar, No Flour!)
A spectacular fruit-based “cake” — healthy, festive, and perfect for kids’ celebrations or summer gatherings! Made with love for my granddaughter’s 6-month milestone. This creative and vibrant recipe is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces while being a wholesome treat.
Ingredients
medium watermelon (seedless preferred, round or oval)1
ripe apricots (for tulip flowers)2
ripe mango (for fish decorations – cheeks & eyes)1
banana (for caterpillar)1
tender lemon leaves (or any edible garden leaves)4
soaked almonds (to make butterflies)444- whole spices: cloves, peppercorns (for details like eyes or antennae)6
lemon (juice optional for brushing fruit if prepping ahead)1- green beans or watermelon rind strips (for stems and leaves)4
How to make Fresh Watermelon Cake (No Sugar, No Flour!)
Prepare the Watermelon Base
- Step 1
Slice a small portion off the base of the watermelon so it stands upright. Be careful not to cut too deep — retain a bit of rind to avoid juice seeping out.
- Step 2
Carve away the sides slowly, trimming bit by bit to create a smooth, rounded cake-like shape.
Make the Fruit Decorations
- Step 1
For the fish (mango): Slice off mango cheeks. Cut curved sections from both sides to resemble a face and tail. Score lightly with a knife for detailing. Add a peppercorn to resemble the eye.
- Step 2
For the tulips (apricot): Slice the apricot cheeks. Make a small triangular notch in the center, then trim thin vertical slits so the petals open slightly.
- Step 3
For the caterpillar (banana): Slice the banana into thick coins. Arrange in a curved line and place lemon leaves along the back for a natural look.
- Step 4
For the butterfly (almonds): Use soaked, peeled almonds. Arrange to resemble wings and one upright for the body. Add clove or peppercorn for the head if desired.
- Step 5
For stems and leaves: Use strips of watermelon rind or fresh garden greens like beans or lemon leaves for natural-looking stems and foliage.
Assemble & Decorate
- Step 1
Arrange your watermelon cake on a large serving plate.
- Step 2
Gently press your fruit shapes onto the surface or secure with toothpicks if needed. Remove toothpicks before serving to kids.
- Step 3
Decorate all sides for a 360° effect.
Tips & Tricks
Go slow while carving. A gentle hand ensures smooth edges and keeps juice from spilling.
Use firm fruit. Slightly firm bananas, mangoes, or apricots are easier to slice and hold shape.
Add lemon juice. Lightly brush cut fruit with lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping in advance.
Get creative. Feel free to use kiwis, strawberries, cucumber, or even bell peppers for colorful detailing. You could also use a melon baller for different designs.
Safety tip. Remove whole spices or toothpicks before offering to children.
Have some more fruit handy in case some of it gets squished or the shape does not come as desired.
FAQS
Can I use a seeded watermelon for this recipe?
While a seedless watermelon is preferred for ease of carving and eating, you can use a seeded one. Just ensure to remove the seeds while carving.
How far in advance can I prepare this watermelon cake?
You can prepare the watermelon base and decorations a few hours in advance. Brush cut fruits with lemon juice to prevent browning and store in the refrigerator until assembly.
What other fruits can I use for decoration?
You can use kiwis, strawberries, blueberries, cucumber, or even bell peppers for colorful and creative detailing.
How do I ensure the decorations stick to the watermelon?
Gently press the fruit shapes onto the watermelon surface. If needed, secure them with toothpicks, but remember to remove them before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for babies or toddlers?
Yes, this recipe is baby-friendly as it contains no sugar or flour. However, ensure to remove any whole spices or toothpicks before serving to young children.
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Ritu Nanda
(@no1cookingbyritu)
“Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome recipes and baking adventures. As a content creator and physicist,I combine my love for science and culinary arts to share mouth-watering food ideas with you. Let’s cook, bake, and enjoy the wonders of food together! “Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome...
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