Candied Watermelon Rinds: A Sweet Treat Your Family Will Love!

Posted on May 5, 2026

This Candied Watermelon Rinds comes together in about 30 minutes, using just one pot for quick preparation that your family will love!

Ingredients You’ll Need

6 cups watermelon rind, cut into 2-inch strips
6 cups water
1 ½ tablespoons salt
4 cups granulated sugar
1 lemon, juiced
1 lemon, zested

These ingredients are super simple and likely ones you have around. The watermelon rinds, in particular, are an amazing way to minimize food waste while bringing a unique sweet treat to the table!

Let’s Get Cooking!

So, here’s how to make these fabulous candied watermelon rinds. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Prepare the Rinds

First things first, you’ll want to soak the rinds. In a large bowl or container, add the watermelon rinds with 6 cups of water and 1 ½ tablespoons of salt. Cover it up, maybe with a lid or some plastic wrap, and let it soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step helps to draw out that bitterness and makes the sweet flavor pop!

Step 2: Cook the Rinds

Once your rinds have soaked, drain and rinse them under cold water. Set them aside for now. In a large pot, add your soaked rinds and enough fresh water to cover them completely. Bring this to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer for about 1 hour until the rinds are opaque and slightly translucent. You’ll know they’re done when they look a little shiny and feel a bit soft!

Step 3: Make the Syrup

While your rinds are cooking, let’s get the syrup going! In another pot, combine 4 cups of granulated sugar, the juice of 1 lemon, and the lemon zest. Heat over medium-high heat until it starts to simmer. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the aroma is simply divine, think sugary sunshine, just begging to sweeten your rinds!

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Once your rinds are ready, add them into the syrup mixture. Let them simmer together for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Just imagine how amazing your kitchen is going to smell during this time!

Step 5: Bake for Perfection

Now, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the rinds onto the baking sheet in a single layer. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 2 to 3 hours until they’re chewy but not quite crispy. It’s important to keep an eye on them because you want them to maintain that lovely gummy texture!

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once they’re ready, let the candied rinds cool on a wire rack. After they’ve cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. And the best part is? They can last for a few weeks if you can resist devouring them right away!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Banana Sushi, my Truffled Everything Bagel Popcorn, or my Loaded Tater Tots!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This recipe truly comes together all in one pot! With minimal cleanup and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something sweet without all the fuss.

Budget-Friendly

Using watermelon rinds means you’re making the most out of your produce, what a frugal way to create a delicious treat!

Comfort Food

Loaded with tons of flavor, these candied watermelon rinds give a sweet touch to any meal or just as a delightful snack. I mean, who wouldn’t love that chewy, sugary goodness?

Customizable

You can use whatever ingredients you have on hand or even switch up the flavor profile. Maybe add a touch of cinnamon or replace lemon with orange juice for a completely new vibe!

Make-Ahead Friendly

Candied watermelon rinds can be made ahead of time. Keep them in an airtight container, and you’re set for any last-minute sweet cravings or dessert emergencies!

Serving and Storage Tips

How to Serve This Candied Delight

These sweet rinds make a fantastic topping for yogurt, a delightful addition to cheese plates, or all on their own as a snack. They also work wonders in desserts, think tarts or as a garnish on cakes!

Storing Your Rinds

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If they last that long, guaranteed they’re going to disappear fast!

Reheating Instructions

They don’t really need reheating, but if you’d like to warm them slightly, just pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. They should return to that lovely chewy texture!

Freezer Friendly

Yes! You can freeze them for up to 6 months. Just ensure they’re wrapped well to avoid freezer burn. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!

A Quick Side Note

Food is really about bringing people together, and this recipe? That’s definitely what it achieves! Remember when I mentioned cleaning out the fridge? Well, that’s what this recipe is all about. You won’t just satisfy your sweet tooth, you’ll also clean out your kitchen without a single ounce of waste. How lovely is that?

Lastly, if you’re looking for a fun way to include the kiddos in the kitchen, this recipe is SO perfect for that. Kids will love the transformation from rinds to a sweet treat, and it’s an excellent lesson on wasting less food!

So go ahead, gather those leftover watermelon rinds, and whip up this Quick Candied Watermelon Rinds recipe. I promise, your family will thank you for it!

Isn’t it amazing how one overlooked part of the watermelon can become such a delightful treat? Happy cooking, and remember, always keep it soulful! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.