Delicious Watermelon Granita (with or without alcohol)

This watermelon granita recipe (that can be served with or without alcohol) is a must-have summer staple. Easy and delicious!

Prep Time5 mins

Total Time2 hrs

Keyword: dessert, granita, summer, watermelon, watermelon granita

Servings:

Cost: 6

5 cups cubed watermelon
1/8 cup simple syrup* *Add more or less simple syrup based on the sweetness of the watermelon. You can easily make your own simple syrup by adding 1 part water and 1 part sugar in a saucepan over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Let cool before adding to mixture.
juice of one lime (optional)
2-3 sprigs of mint (optional) set some aside for garnish
small pinch of sea salt (optional)
1/2 cup of white rum (plus 1 oz for pour over) if serving it as a boozy granita

Add all ingredients into a food processor or blender. If adding mint, blend until mint is finely chopped and watermelon is pureed. Pour into metal baking dish and cover tightly with foil. Freeze for 1-2- hours, then use a fork to "rake" the mixture into a soft, fluffy texture.
Return to the freezer for another 1-2 hours and rake again. When you're ready to serve, simply remove from freezer again, rake, and fill glasses. I like to rim my glass with a little salt or sugar and garnish with a sprig of mint. **Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for about a week after making.
Make it a cocktail: If you're looking to enjoy a real mojito, simply add 1/2 cup of white rum to your watermelon mixture before freezing. Serve with another ounce of white rum on top. The consistency will be more of a slushy, but just as enjoyable and refreshing!