This Watermelon Bread is a fun, fruity twist on classic quick bread—moist, lightly sweet, and infused with the fresh flavor of watermelon. With a soft crumb and optional red food coloring for vibrant color, this loaf is perfect for summer baking, brunches, or as a unique treat that surprises everyone.
It’s like a slice of watermelon in bread form—sweet, refreshing, and totally delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍉 Fruity Moisture: Watermelon puree adds natural sweetness and soft texture without artificial flavors.
- 🥄 Quick & Easy: No mixer needed—just stir together and bake.
- 🧁 Perfect for Summer: Light, refreshing, and not overly sweet.
- 🍇 Optional Raisins: Adds chewy contrast and extra body (optional but recommended).
- 🎉 Great for Gifting: Wrap in cellophane or tie with ribbon for a lovely summer gift.
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf):
Wet Ingredients:
- 1½ cups watermelon chunks , blended into puree (makes about 1 cup)
- ½ cup (1 stick) softened unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-Ins & Optional:
- ½ cup raisins (soak briefly in warm water if you want extra plumpness)
- 1 tsp red food coloring (optional – for more vibrant pink color)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (to enhance fruit flavor – optional but recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Line with parchment paper if desired for easier removal.
Step 2: Puree the Watermelon
Place 1½ cups of cubed watermelon in a blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth—should yield about 1 cup of watermelon puree .
Set aside while preparing the batter.
Tip: Strain slightly if very watery, but don’t remove all pulp—it contains flavor!
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat:
- Butter
- Sugar
until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the watermelon puree and mix thoroughly.
If using, add vanilla extract and food coloring now.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
The batter will be thick and slightly wet, which is normal.
Step 5: Fold in Raisins (Optional)
If using raisins, gently fold them into the batter with a spatula.
They’ll absorb some moisture and add a chewy surprise in every bite.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool fully before slicing—this helps it hold its shape.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for best texture.
Enjoy plain or with a smear of cream cheese or honey.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smoother batter and even rise.
- 🍉 Drain Slightly: If your watermelon puree is very juicy, let it sit in a strainer for 5–10 minutes.
- 🥣 No Food Coloring? No Problem: The bread will have a light pinkish hue naturally from the watermelon.
- 🧁 Glaze Option: Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze or lemon icing for extra flair.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Store wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze slices for later.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with coffee, herbal tea, or a tall glass of cold milk.
- Top with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a breakfast twist.
- Great for afternoon tea, school snacks, or packed lunches.
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 10 slices):
(Without glaze or cream cheese)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~12g
This Watermelon Bread is a surprising and delightful way to enjoy the taste of summer in a soft, tender loaf. It’s subtly sweet, incredibly moist, and full of fresh watermelon flavor.
So go ahead and make this today… because sometimes, the best treats are the ones that look like dessert but feel like sunshine!
