This cool and refreshing no-bake dessert features juicy watermelon and a creamy filling. It’s perfect for hot summer days.
Watermelon Pie
This cool and creamy watermelon pie is basically summer in a pie shell. It’s light, refreshing and just the right amount of sweet—plus, it’s loaded with juicy watermelon chunks that make every bite a little burst of sunshine. The best part is that you don’t have to turn on your oven. With a smooth and fluffy filling and a graham cracker crust that’s perfectly crunchy, it’s the kind of no-fuss pie that’ll impress everyone at your next barbecue or picnic.
Watermelon Pie Ingredients
- Watermelon gelatin: The watermelon-flavored gelatin sets the pie to give it a firm yet creamy texture while infusing a fruity flavor throughout.
- Boiling water: The boiling water dissolves the gelatin and allows it to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Frozen whipped topping: The whipped topping adds lightness and creaminess to the pie, creating a fluffy texture once combined with the gelatin.
- Watermelon: Fresh watermelon cubes introduce a burst of juicy sweetness and refreshing flavor that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- Graham cracker crust: The graham cracker crust provides a crunchy and slightly sweet base that complements the creamy watermelon filling.
Directions
Step 1: Make the gelatin
In a large bowl, dissolve the watermelon gelatin in the boiling water by stirring for one to two minutes until fully dissolved. Let the gelatin cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Finish the pie
Once cooled, whisk in the thawed whipped topping until smooth. Gently fold in the cubed watermelon until evenly mixed. Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least two hours, or until the pie is fully set, before serving.
Watermelon Pie Variations
- Swap in a chocolate cookie crust: Use an Oreo crust instead of graham crackers to add a rich chocolate contrast to the light watermelon filling.
- Add fresh berries: Fold in a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries along with the watermelon for a burst of extra color and flavor.
- Top with whipped cream: Add a layer of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy finish just before serving.
- Mix in lime zest: Stir a teaspoon of fresh lime zest into the gelatin mixture for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Use different gelatin flavors: Substitute watermelon gelatin with strawberry or raspberry gelatin to create a new flavor combination.
How to Store Watermelon Pie
The best way to store this recipe for watermelon pie is to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it within the first two days.
Can you freeze watermelon pie?
Freezing watermelon pie isn’t recommended because the fresh watermelon cubes will release water as they thaw and make the filling watery. The whipped topping and gelatin mixture may also lose their creamy consistency after freezing.
Can you make watermelon pie ahead of time?
Yes, watermelon pie can be made ahead of time. It is a convenient dessert for parties or gatherings. Prepare the pie up to one day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. For the best results, add any toppings like whipped cream just before serving.
Watermelon Pie Tips
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?
Yes, you can use freshly whipped cream as a substitute for frozen whipped topping. Try a flavored version such as this bourbon whipped cream to make it interesting. A hazelnut whipped cream could also be nice. Just make sure to whip the cream to soft peaks before folding it into the gelatin mixture. Keep in mind that the pie might be slightly less firm but will still taste delicious.
Is there a low-sugar or sugar-free version of watermelon pie?
You can use sugar-free watermelon gelatin and a sugar-free whipped topping for a lower-sugar option. This modification reduces the overall sugar content while still delivering the same refreshing flavor and texture.
What other fruits can I use in place of watermelon?
If you’d like to try a different fruit consider using cubed cantaloupe, honeydew or even strawberries. Just be sure to pat the fruit dry before adding it to the pie to prevent excess moisture from affecting the consistency.
Watch How to Make Cool and Creamy Watermelon Pie
Cool and Creamy Watermelon Pie
Ingredients
- 1 package (3 ounces) watermelon gelatin
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- 1 carton (12 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups cubed seeded watermelon
- 1 graham cracker crust (9 inches)
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Cool to room temperature. Whisk in whipped topping; fold in watermelon. Spoon into crust. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
Nutrition Facts
1 piece: 272 calories, 12g fat (8g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 147mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.