Chewy Watermelon Rind Candy

4.0
(3)

This candy watermelon makes great use of watermelon rinds. Instead of throwing the rinds away, turn them into a sweet treat with sugar, mint, and sweet basil. You can roll the dehydrated candy pieces in coarse sugar if you like.

Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Additional Time:
6 hrs
Total Time:
6 hrs 30 mins
Servings:
12
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

  • 1 watermelon rind, peeled

  • 4 cups water

  • 4 cups white sugar

  • ½ cup spearmint leaves, coarsely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon dried sweet basil

Directions

  1. Cut watermelon rind into 2-inch long, 1-inch wide, and 1/2-inch thick pieces.

  2. Combine water, sugar, spearmint, and basil in a large pot. Bring to a rolling boil. Strain out spearmint and basil. Add watermelon rind, making sure pieces are completely immersed. Cook until rind is soft, about 5 minutes.

  3. Drain watermelon pieces and arrange in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Dry according to the manufacturer's instructions until pieces are candied, 6 to 8 hours.

Cook’s Note

Stevia, xylitol, dextrose, and other sugar substitutes may be used for this recipe.

If you are using dried mint, reduce the amount to 2 tablespoons.

We have replaced the mint or basil with tea blends to give the syrup and final candy different flavor twists. Green tea with mint was delicious!

Eat the candy immediately or store it in the freezer for up to a year.

Editor's Note:

Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of sugar. The actual amount of sugar consumed will vary.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

381 Calories
2g Fat
94g Carbs
3g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 12
Calories 381
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 2g 2%
Saturated Fat 0g 1%
Sodium 11mg 0%
Total Carbohydrate 94g 34%
Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
Total Sugars 67g
Protein 3g 5%
Vitamin C 37mg 41%
Calcium 46mg 4%
Iron 1mg 7%
Potassium 464mg 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.