If you’re searching for the ultimate summer treat that’s vibrant, fun, and mouth-wateringly delicious, look no further than these Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices. Sweet, juicy watermelon meets the luxurious snap of dark chocolate and a sparkle of flaky sea salt—creating magic on a plate! This no-bake dessert is as easy as it is impressive, making it perfect for backyard parties, picnics, or just whenever you crave something a little out of the ordinary. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a fruit fiend, or simply after a healthy-ish indulgence, Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices bring together the best of all worlds in every cool, refreshing bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple without skimping on excitement! Each ingredient is truly essential—working together to create bold flavors, beautiful textures, and irresistible color contrast.
- Seedless watermelon: Juicy, sweet, and perfectly crisp—be sure it’s seedless for easy slicing and eating!
- Dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao): Gives these slices their rich, decadent coating that’s beautifully bittersweet.
- Coconut oil (optional): Stirred into the chocolate for a silkier, easier-to-dip consistency, but it’s not a must.
- Flaky sea salt: The finishing touch! Delivers bursts of salty crunch that make the chocolate and watermelon shine.
How to Make Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices
Step 1: Slice and Dry Your Watermelon
Begin by slicing your seedless watermelon into thick, 1-inch wedges—triangles work beautifully for this dish. Once cut, lay the slices out on a clean towel or some paper towels and gently pat them dry on all sides. This is the secret to helping the chocolate cling to the fruit, so take a few moments to blot off any excess moisture you see.
Step 2: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This nonstick layer keeps your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices looking picture-perfect and makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange your dried watermelon wedges on the sheet, spaced slightly apart.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) with the coconut oil if you’re using it. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each session, until everything is luxuriously smooth and pourable. Watch carefully—chocolate can overheat fast!
Step 4: Dip the Watermelon Wedges
Working one at a time, dip the cut tip of each watermelon wedge into the melted chocolate, letting any extra drip away. The aim is to coat about a third to half of the wedge, so you get that beautiful half-and-half look with a dramatic chocolate edge.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Chill
As soon as each wedge is dipped, place it on the prepared baking sheet and immediately sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate portion. Continue with all slices, then slide the tray into the fridge for 20–30 minutes, just until the chocolate is set and magically crisp to the bite.
How to Serve Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices
Garnishes
For extra flair, you can sprinkle the chocolate-dipped sections with finely chopped toasted nuts, shredded coconut, or even colorful sprinkles before chilling. Mint leaves make a beautiful plate garnish alongside your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices, adding a fragrant pop of green that pairs perfectly with the sweet-fruity chocolate vibe.
Side Dishes
These slices are sheer summer joy on their own, but if you want a full dessert spread, serve them alongside bowls of fresh berries, lemon sorbet, or a tray of almond biscotti. The coolness of the watermelon and richness of the chocolate are fantastic companions to light, fruit-forward side dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices in a playful fan shape on a large platter, or skewer them for a whimsical dessert kebab at a picnic. For parties, pair each slice with a small cocktail umbrella or tuck a popsicle stick into the rind before dipping for a festival-ready handheld treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices fresh, store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you need to stack them, place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’re best eaten within a day for the crispiest chocolate and juiciest melon!
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for the texture of fresh watermelon, you can freeze the slices if necessary. Just know that once thawed, the watermelon will be much softer and juicier (think more of a chilled, slushier treat). Place individual slices on a tray in the freezer first, then transfer to a container with paper between each.
Reheating
Reheating really isn’t needed here—these are meant to be enjoyed cold! If they’ve been in the freezer, you can let them thaw in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture. Always skip the microwave, as it’ll quickly melt the chocolate and waterlog the fruit.
FAQs
Do I need to use coconut oil in the chocolate?
Nope! The coconut oil just makes the chocolate a little smoother and easier to dip, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can leave it out—the dark chocolate will still set beautifully on your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices.
Can I make these with other types of chocolate?
Absolutely. Milk chocolate or white chocolate can be used if you prefer a sweeter or creamier flavor. Just be mindful that they might set a little softer, especially in the summer heat.
How do I keep the chocolate from sliding off the watermelon?
The most important step is to pat the watermelon slices completely dry before dipping. Chocolate sticks far better to a dry surface—any leftover moisture can cause it to slide right off.
Can I make Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours ahead and store them chilled until serving. They’re best eaten the same day, so for maximum wow factor and texture, plan to assemble them within 4–6 hours of your event.
Are there any fun variations I can try?
Try playing with toppings like chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, sprinkles, or a pinch of crushed pink pepper for a spicy-sweet kick. The basic recipe is also wonderful with cantaloupe or honeydew in place of watermelon.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried the sensational combination of juicy fruit, rich chocolate, and flaky salt, you’re truly in for a treat. Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices are as fun to make as they are to eat, and they deliver refreshing flavor with every chilled bite. Gather your ingredients and give them a try—the only thing you’ll regret is not making a double batch!
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Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in a sweet and salty treat with these Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Watermelon Slices. Juicy watermelon wedges dipped in rich dark chocolate and sprinkled with flaky sea salt make for a refreshing and decadent dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick wedges
- 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick wedges and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using), and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip the watermelon: Dip the tips of each watermelon wedge into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place the dipped slices onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Add sea salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate portion of each slice.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the tray for about 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Be sure the watermelon is as dry as possible before dipping to help the chocolate stick.
- You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top before the chocolate sets for added texture.
- Best enjoyed the same day they’re made.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1–2 slices
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
