Summer parties, BBQs, or just a chill day in the sun call for something special-and nothing beats a juicy, boozy treat like a vodka-infused watermelon. This playful cocktail alternative combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the spirited kick of vodka, creating a refreshing snack that’s perfect for adult gatherings. If you’ve ever wondered how to infuse a watermelon with vodka, here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you make this crowd-pleaser at home.
What You’ll Need
– 1 large, ripe watermelon (seedless preferred for ease)
– 1 bottle of vodka (750 ml or 1 liter works well)
– A sharp knife
– A spoon or melon baller
– A stable surface for your watermelon
Step-by-Step Guide to Infusing Your Watermelon with Vodka
1. Prepare Your Watermelon
Start by placing your watermelon on a flat, stable surface. If it’s round and tends to roll, slice a small piece off the bottom to create a flat base. This keeps it steady while you work.
2. Cut a Hole for the Vodka Bottle
Remove the vodka bottle cap and use it as a template to trace a circle on the top-center of the watermelon. This circle should be slightly larger than the widest part of the vodka bottle’s neck.
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the circle and remove the piece of rind and flesh. Save this piece to use later as a plug to seal the hole after infusion.
3. Hollow Out the Hole
Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out enough watermelon flesh inside the hole so the vodka bottle neck fits snugly inside. You want enough space for the bottle neck to insert fully without resistance.
4. Insert the Vodka Bottle
Remove the vodka bottle cap and quickly insert the bottle neck into the hole you just made. It helps to tilt the watermelon or the bottle slightly to avoid spilling. Once the bottle is in place, rotate the watermelon back to an upright position so the vodka bottle is inverted and securely resting inside the hole.
5. Let the Vodka Infuse
Allow the vodka to slowly seep into the watermelon for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature. This gives the vodka time to soak into the fruit, infusing it with that delicious boozy flavor.
6. Chill and Serve
After infusion, remove the vodka bottle and plug the hole with the saved piece of watermelon rind. Refrigerate the infused watermelon for a few hours to chill it thoroughly before serving.
When ready, slice the watermelon into wedges or cubes and enjoy your refreshing vodka-infused treat responsibly.
Tips for the Perfect Vodka-Infused Watermelon
– Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon: A juicy, ripe melon absorbs vodka better and tastes sweeter.
– Use a seedless watermelon: This makes eating easier and more enjoyable without the hassle of seeds.
– Make several small holes inside the cut hole: Using a skewer or knife, poke holes inside the cavity to help the vodka seep deeper into the flesh.
– Try adding a splash of triple sec: For a tropical twist, mix some triple sec with vodka before infusing.
– Chill before serving: Refrigerating the infused watermelon enhances the refreshing experience.
– Use a long-neck vodka bottle: This helps balance the bottle in the watermelon without tipping over.
Alternative: Watermelon-Infused Vodka
If you prefer a ready-to-use cocktail base, you can also infuse vodka with watermelon cubes in a jar. Simply combine cubed watermelon and vodka in a jar, let it sit for 2 to 5 days, then strain. This watermelon-infused vodka is perfect for mixing into cocktails.
Vodka-infused watermelon is a fun, easy way to combine fruit and spirits in one delicious bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a cool treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Cheers to a tasty summer tradition!