How to Make Watermelon Shaved Ice at Home

The watermelon syrup

Great watermelon shaved ice starts with a real-fruit syrup rather than a neon bottle. Simmer a simple syrup of roughly equal parts sugar and water, then work in watermelon — fresh, frozen or as a quality puree — and strain until smooth.

Watermelon is crisp, refreshing, so taste as you go and brighten it with a little citrus to keep the flavor lively. Watermelon is about 92% water, which makes it basically pre-shaved ice.

Shaving the snow

Freeze a clear block of ice slowly, let it temper on the counter for a few minutes, then shave it into loose, fluffy ribbons. Pile the snow tall and pour your syrup over the top so it soaks down through every layer.

Flavor after shaving, never before — that's the secret to snow that tastes great from the first spoon to the last.

Toppings for watermelon

To finish, lean into pairings that flatter watermelon. We love it with lime and a pinch of salt.

• Fresh fruit cut into little cubes
• A chewy topping like boba, mochi or jelly
• A drizzle of condensed milk or coconut cream
• A tiny sugar blossom, because presentation is half the fun

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