Wine-Infused Watermelon Delight
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing Wine-Infused Watermelon Delight! This delightful spin on spiked watermelon uses a crisp, off-dry Riesling to complement the sweet juiciness of the ripe melon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for outdoor parties or cozy get-togethers, this recipe transforms a classic favorite into a sophisticated treat. The wine seeps into the watermelon over time, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it chilled or blended into slushy drinks for a real crowd-pleaser!
15
Servings
N/A
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Seedless watermelon
1 (10 lbs, cut into desired shape)
White Riesling wine
1 (750 ml, chilled)
Instructions
1
Select a ripe, heavy seedless watermelon and wash its surface.
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a hole at the top of the watermelon, large enough to insert a funnel.
3
Insert the funnel into the hole and slowly pour the chilled white Riesling into the watermelon. Fill it to the brim.
4
Refrigerate the watermelon, allowing it to absorb the wine. Every three to four hours, add more wine to the funnel, if possible. A 10-pound watermelon can absorb one full bottle of wine overnight.
5
Once the watermelon is thoroughly infused (ideally overnight), remove it from the fridge.
6
Slice the watermelon into wedges and serve chilled, or scoop out the flesh and freeze it for a refreshing base for blender drinks, such as smoothies or slushies.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wine-Infused Watermelon Delight?
It is a refreshing summer treat where a whole seedless watermelon is infused with chilled white Riesling wine to create a sophisticated, boozy fruit snack.
What type of wine is best for this recipe?
A crisp, off-dry white Riesling is recommended to complement the natural sweetness of the watermelon.
How many ingredients are needed?
This recipe requires only two main ingredients: a seedless watermelon and a bottle of white Riesling wine.
What size watermelon should I use?
A 10-pound seedless watermelon is ideal for this recipe.
How much wine can the watermelon hold?
A 10-pound watermelon can typically absorb one full 750 ml bottle of wine over the course of an evening.
How long does it take to infuse the watermelon?
For the best results, the watermelon should be refrigerated and allowed to infuse overnight.
Should the wine be chilled before adding it?
Yes, the recipe specifies using chilled white Riesling wine.
Do I need to wash the watermelon?
Yes, you should wash the surface of the watermelon before cutting into it.
How do I get the wine into the watermelon?
Cut a hole in the top of the watermelon large enough for a funnel, then insert the funnel and slowly pour the wine inside.
How often should I add more wine?
Check the funnel every three to four hours and add more wine as it is absorbed into the melon.
Can I use a watermelon with seeds?
While you can, a seedless watermelon is preferred for ease of eating and a better texture when infused.
How should I serve the wine-infused watermelon?
You can serve it chilled in wedges or scoop out the flesh to use as a base for smoothies or slushies.
How many people does this serve?
This recipe provides approximately 15 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
No, this recipe contains alcohol and is intended for adults only.
Can I freeze the infused watermelon?
Yes, you can freeze the infused flesh and blend it into a refreshing slushy drink later.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
This recipe is tagged as a dessert, watermelon, wine, summer, refreshing, party, fruit, chilled, and cocktail.
Can I use red wine instead of white Riesling?
The recipe calls for Riesling for its specific flavor profile, but you can experiment with other wines if desired.
Is there any added sugar?
No additional sugar is added; the sweetness comes entirely from the melon and the wine.
Do I need special tools for this?
You will need a sharp knife and a funnel to properly infuse the wine.
Can I make this for an outdoor party?
Yes, it is described as an ideal treat for outdoor parties and summer gatherings.
How do I know if the watermelon is ripe?
The recipe suggests selecting a ripe, heavy watermelon for the best flavor and absorption.
Can I use spirits like vodka instead?
This specific recipe is designed for wine, though similar methods exist for vodka or other spirits.
How much prep time is needed?
The initial prep is quick, but the infusion process requires an overnight stay in the refrigerator.
Does the watermelon skin need to be removed before infusing?
No, keep the skin intact to hold the liquid while the wine seeps into the flesh.
What should I do if the wine isn't draining into the melon?
Ensure the hole is clear and the funnel is inserted deeply enough into the flesh to allow the liquid to flow.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
Specific nutritional data like calories and fat are not provided for this recipe.
Is this considered a cocktail?
It can be considered a 'cocktail-fruit hybrid' since the fruit is the delivery method for the wine.
How do I slice it without the wine leaking?
Remove the funnel once the wine is fully absorbed and the melon has chilled; the liquid will have soaked into the fruit fibers.
Can I use an organic watermelon?
Yes, any type of seedless watermelon works as long as it is ripe and around 10 pounds.
Is it best served immediately after infusion?
Yes, it is best served immediately after removing it from the fridge while it is still chilled.