Description
This refreshing, dairy-free dessert features a crisp watermelon core blanketed in a fluffy, stabilized coconut cream frosting. It is the perfect cool-down treat for hot summer afternoons, requiring no oven and simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 whole watermelon
- 2 cans coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Chill coconut milk. Place cans in the refrigerator overnight to allow the thick cream to separate from the liquid.
- Whip the cream. Combine solid cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and arrowroot powder in a cold bowl, whipping until thick and smooth.
- Trim the watermelon. Slice the ends off the melon and cut a four-inch thick slab to create the cake body.
- Shape the base. Cut a neat cylinder from the melon slab, trimming just inside the white rind.
- Dry the surface. Pat the watermelon exterior thoroughly with paper towels to ensure it is completely dry.
- Chill the cake. Wrap the melon in dry paper towels and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
- Apply the frosting. Spread the chilled coconut cream smoothly over the top and sides of the melon.
- Garnish and serve. Decorate with fresh berries and toasted almonds, serving immediately while cold.
Notes
- Always use full-fat canned coconut milk without additives like guar gum to ensure the cream whips properly.
- Keep your mixing bowl in the freezer for ten minutes before whipping to help the coconut cream stay stable.
- If the frosting appears runny, simply stir in an extra pinch of arrowroot powder and return to the fridge for thirty minutes.
- Patting the watermelon completely dry is essential, as any residual moisture will prevent the frosting from adhering.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
