Description
This refreshing, dairy-free summer dessert features a firm, chilled cylinder of fresh watermelon topped with a light, hand-whipped coconut cream frosting. Finished with vibrant berries and toasted almonds, it offers a crisp and cooling treat perfect for warm afternoons without ever turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 medium watermelon
- 2 cans organic coconut milk (full fat)
- 2 tablespoons coconut nectar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries and raspberries
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
Instructions
- Chill coconut milk. Place cans in the refrigerator for at least twenty-four hours to ensure the cream separates from the water.
- Extract the cream. Carefully open the cans and scoop only the solidified white coconut cream into a chilled mixing bowl.
- Whip the frosting. Add coconut nectar, vanilla, and arrowroot to the cream; use a hand mixer until it becomes smooth and holds soft peaks.
- Slice the base. Cut a four-inch thick circular slab from the center of the watermelon and trim away the rind to create a smooth cylinder.
- Dry the fruit. Thoroughly pat all surfaces of the melon with dry paper towels to ensure the frosting adheres properly without slipping.
- Frost the cake. Use an offset spatula to spread the chilled coconut cream over the top and sides of the melon in rustic swirls.
- Garnish and serve. Decorate the top with fresh berries and toasted slivered almonds, serving immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- Ensure the watermelon is completely dry before applying frosting to prevent the cream from sliding off.
- Use only high-quality canned coconut milk without added guar gum or emulsifiers for the best consistency.
- Work with a chilled mixing bowl and beaters to help the coconut fats stay firm during the whipping process.
- Leftover coconut water from the cans is excellent when blended into morning smoothies or oatmeal.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
