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Carving a watermelon into a Jack-O’-Lantern is a surprising twist on the classic pumpkin idea—one that’s perfect for those cozy fall nights when you want something a bit different. This fun activity brings out your spooky spirit and makes good use of sweet, juicy watermelon flesh. Once you’ve carved your watermelon masterpiece, transform the carved-out fruit into a festive, shareable drink. The recipe below—“Ghostly Ginger-Apple Watermelon Punch”—is irresistibly refreshing, with a gentle kick and just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 whole seedless watermelon (medium to large size, ripe and firm)
- 1 cup fresh apple juice (preferably pressed or unfiltered)
- 2 cups ginger ale or ginger soda
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, if watermelon is less sweet)
- Ice cubes for serving
- Optional garnish: sliced apples, fresh mint leaves
Instructions
First, prepare your Jack-O’-Lantern. Using a sharp knife, cut off the top of the watermelon in a circular shape, just wide enough to create a lid. Set this piece aside. Scoop out the watermelon flesh, leaving about an inch or so of melon still intact along the sides for support. Place the scooped-out flesh in a large bowl while you continue.
Once hollowed out, use a small paring knife to carve faces—or any design you like—into the rind. Aim for a classic Jack-O’-Lantern grin and eyes, or get creative with spooky shapes. Take care not to pierce through the rind too forcefully, as you just want clean lines without losing the structure.
After carving, cover the watermelon shell (and its “lid”) and refrigerate. Cube or slice the watermelon flesh from the bowl, removing any seeds if necessary. Add the watermelon pieces to a blender or food processor, and blend until you have a smooth purée. You’ll need about 4-5 cups of watermelon juice for the punch.
In a pitcher, combine the watermelon purée with fresh apple juice, ginger ale, lime juice, and a spoonful of honey if the mixture needs extra sweetness. Give it a good stir or shake until all the flavors meld together. Then, chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. When you’re ready to serve, remove your carved watermelon from the fridge, add your final punch mixture, and drop in a handful of ice cubes. Garnish with sliced apples or fresh mint if you like. Pop the “lid” back on top for an adorable effect.
To serve, simply ladle the Ghostly Ginger-Apple Watermelon Punch into glasses or cups from your carved watermelon. Everyone will be delighted by the playful presentation, and the flavors are bright, slightly spicy, and incredibly refreshing.
This recipe is perfect for families looking to do something fun together, party hosts wanting a conversation piece, or anyone who simply loves to celebrate the season in style. Watermelon’s hydration and natural sweetness make it a healthier choice, and you can easily swap the ginger soda for sparkling water if you want a lower-sugar alternative. If you crave more warmth, experiment with warming spices like cinnamon or freshly grated ginger. Whether you’re aiming for spooky vibes or just a creative twist for fall gatherings, a watermelon Jack-O’-Lantern with crisp, flavored punch is an easy showstopper that brings smiles all around.
