Ice cream watermelon cake is the ultimate no-bake dessert for summer celebrations. With its vibrant layers mimicking an actual watermelon slice, this frozen treat blends fruity sherbet and creamy ice cream into one delightful bite. Whether you’re planning a backyard party, birthday bash, or just need to cool off, this cake delivers flavor and fun. In this article, I’ll guide you through how to make your own ice cream watermelon cake from scratch, share variations and flavor swaps, and answer popular questions like whether Friendly’s version is still available and why watermelon and ice cream are a surprisingly perfect pair.
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Why Everyone Loves Ice Cream Watermelon Cake
A Sweet Memory of Summer Days
Hello, I’m Jennifer—and I’ve been baking and whipping up desserts for over 30 years. But one summer, it was too hot to bake anything. My niece, who was turning six, asked for something “cold and pink and happy.” That’s when I made my first ice cream watermelon cake. I layered watermelon sherbet and vanilla ice cream in a springform pan, added chocolate chips for the “seeds,” and we sliced into what looked like a giant watermelon wedge. Everyone loved it, especially my grandmother who never liked heavy frosting. That cake became a summer staple for us.
What Is an Ice Cream Watermelon Cake?
This delightful treat is exactly what it sounds like—layers of ice cream and sherbet made to look like a watermelon. The “rind” is typically lime sherbet or pistachio ice cream, the “flesh” is watermelon sherbet or strawberry ice cream, and mini chocolate chips act as seeds. It’s served frozen and sliced like a cake, and the visual alone is enough to wow your guests.
PrintIce cream watermelon cake
This colorful no-bake ice cream watermelon cake features layers of fruity sherbet and mini chocolate chips, mimicking a real watermelon. A fun, cool treat for hot summer days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 quart lime sherbet or pistachio ice cream (for rind)
1½ quarts watermelon sherbet or strawberry ice cream (for flesh)
½ cup mini chocolate chips (for seeds)
1 pint vanilla ice cream (optional white layer)
Springform pan (8–9 inch)
Plastic wrap or parchment
Instructions
1. Line a springform pan with plastic wrap.
2. Spread softened lime sherbet around bottom and sides for the rind. Freeze 30 minutes.
3. Optional: Add a thin vanilla ice cream layer and freeze 20 minutes.
4. Fold chocolate chips into softened watermelon sherbet and fill the center.
5. Smooth the top and freeze the cake for 4–6 hours or overnight.
6. Remove from pan, slice with a warm knife, and serve immediately.
Notes
Soften each ice cream slightly before spreading.
Decorate with whipped cream, mint, or candies for flair.
Store wrapped in freezer for up to one week.
How to Make a Watermelon Ice Cream Cake
Making a homemade ice cream watermelon cake is easier than it looks. You’ll need just a few store-bought ingredients and a bit of freezer space. Here’s what goes into a classic version:
- 1 quart lime sherbet or pistachio ice cream (for the “rind”)
- 1½ quarts watermelon sherbet or strawberry ice cream (for the “flesh”)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (for “seeds”)
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream (optional white layer)
- Springform pan (8–9 inch)
- Plastic wrap or parchment for easy removal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line the springform pan with plastic wrap.
- Spread softened lime sherbet around the bottom and sides to form the rind. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Optional: Add a thin layer of vanilla ice cream. Freeze for 20 minutes.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into softened watermelon sherbet and fill the center.
- Freeze the completed cake for 4–6 hours or overnight.
- Remove pan, slice with a warm knife, and serve your homemade ice cream watermelon cake.
You can decorate the top with whipped cream, fresh mint, or watermelon gummies for a playful finish. If Friendly’s Watermelon Roll isn’t available in your area, this homemade cake is a fantastic alternative that lets you control ingredients and presentation.
Creative Variations of Watermelon Ice Cream Cake
Fun Flavor Twists to Try
The classic ice cream watermelon cake is all about bold color and fruity flavor, but you can absolutely make it your own. Not a fan of lime sherbet? Swap it for green tea or mint chocolate chip ice cream. Want a stronger watermelon taste? Use real watermelon puree mixed into softened vanilla ice cream, then freeze until firm.
For a chocolatey version, try layering chocolate ice cream in place of the “rind” and a pink raspberry sorbet for the center. This gives a beautiful contrast and a deeper flavor profile. You can also fold in chopped dark chocolate or freeze-dried berries as creative “seeds” in your ice cream watermelon cake.
Dairy-Free and Allergy-Friendly Options
Yes, you can make a dairy-free ice cream watermelon cake using plant-based ice creams like oat milk or coconut sherbet. They hold shape well and add a natural sweetness. Nut-free options are easy—just skip pistachio and go for a dye-free green sherbet. Gluten-free? This dessert already is, but double-check ingredients to be safe.
Serving & Storing Watermelon ce Cream Cake
How to Serve It Perfectly Every Time
Serving ice cream watermelon cake is all about timing. The key is to slice it when it’s firm, not rock solid. About 10–15 minutes out of the freezer is ideal. Run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice cleanly through the layers. This helps avoid smudging the colorful layers or cracking the sherbet.
Want to dress it up? Top slices with whipped cream, fresh watermelon balls, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. For a fun party vibe, sprinkle with edible glitter or add mini popsicle sticks to serve frozen wedges like pops.
This cake pairs beautifully with summer meals, especially light dishes like grilled chicken, fresh salads, or even a charcuterie board. It also makes a stunning finish to a no-bake dessert bar.
Storage Tips & Make-Ahead Advice
You can make this dessert up to a week in advance—just keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. After slicing, store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap individual slices to enjoy later.
If you’re wondering where to buy Friendly’s Watermelon Roll, check local stores in the Northeast like Big Y or Market Basket. Some online grocery services carry it seasonally, but it can be hard to find year-round, making the homemade version even more worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Friendly’s watermelon cake?
You can find Friendly’s Watermelon Roll at select grocery stores in the Northeastern U.S., especially during summer. Try stores like Big Y or check their official site for a store locator.
Can you have watermelon and ice cream together?
Yes! The refreshing, hydrating flavor of watermelon pairs wonderfully with creamy textures like vanilla ice cream or fruity sherbets. It’s a light yet indulgent combo.
Is Friendly’s watermelon roll discontinued?
No, it’s still in production but only available seasonally and in limited regions. That’s why many opt for a homemade version like the one in this article.
Which flavor is best in ice cream cake?
It depends on preference, but watermelon sherbet, vanilla ice cream, and lime sherbet create a refreshing and eye-catching combo that’s ideal for summer.
Conclusion
An ice cream watermelon cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a showstopper, conversation starter, and a guaranteed hit at any summer event. With its playful design, refreshing flavors, and no-bake simplicity, it’s the perfect way to cool off and bring a smile to everyone’s face. Whether you follow the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite twists, this cake delivers on both style and taste.
As someone who’s baked for decades and still learns with each new recipe, I can promise this one is worth adding to your warm-weather tradition. If you’ve been searching for something as fun as it is delicious, this is it. Try it, enjoy it, and most importantly—share it. Because every good dessert, just like every summer memory, is better when shared.
More Watermelon Recipes:
Watermelon Cake That Will Surprise You
Watermelon Flavor Cake That Tastes Like Summer
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