When summer hits here in Colorado, the heat can be relentless. As a mom and a home cook, I’m always hunting for fun ways to keep my kids cool without reaching for store-bought sugary drinks. That’s how these Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids became a staple in our house.
I still remember the first time we made them. It was one of those 90-degree afternoons, and my son had just finished soccer practice, red-faced and sweaty. We had a watermelon sitting on the counter, and I thought—why not turn it into something icy and fun? Within hours, we had frosty glasses of watermelon slushies that tasted like summer in every sip. Since then, it’s been one of our go-to hot day recipes.
Not only are these slushies incredibly easy to make, but they’re also kid-approved and mom-approved. They’re naturally sweet with just a touch of added sugar and a bright pop of lemon to balance the flavors. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a watermelon slushie for kids, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite.
And if you’re into refreshing fruit-based treats like this, you’ll love trying my Strawberry Crunch Salad next. It’s another summer crowd-pleaser that makes use of fresh seasonal produce.
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Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids made with real fruit, sugar, lemon juice, and soda for a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients
6 cups seedless watermelon cubes
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
7-Up or Sprite to serve
Instructions
1. Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. Strain the puree to remove pulp.
3. Mix in sugar and lemon juice until dissolved.
4. Freeze for 2-3 hours, stirring every 45 minutes.
5. Scrape into slushy shavings when frozen.
6. Spoon into glasses, top with soda, and garnish.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe watermelon for best flavor.
For added fun, freeze leftovers into popsicles.
Add fresh mint or a lemon slice for garnish.
Substitute Sprite with sparkling water for less sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Freezer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why Watermelon Slushies Are a Kid-Friendly Favorite
Naturally Sweet and Hydrating
One of the best things about making Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids is that watermelon does most of the work for you. It’s already packed with natural sugars and over 90% water, making it the perfect fruit for blending into icy treats.
When you add just a little sugar and a splash of lemon juice, it heightens the flavor without making it overly sweet. This way, the kids feel like they’re getting dessert, but you know it’s actually hydrating and full of vitamins like A and C.
This makes it a fantastic alternative to artificially colored store-bought slush drinks or soda. Speaking of alternatives, if you’re looking for another frozen fruit treat for kids, my Mango Sherbet is another popular choice during warmer months.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One thing I love about this recipe is how minimal the ingredient list is. All you need is:
- Fresh seedless watermelon
- A small amount of white sugar
- Fresh lemon juice for zing
- And for that fun, fizzy finish—7-Up or Sprite
That’s it! No fancy syrups or complicated steps. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly, especially when watermelons go on sale in summer.
This slushie also pairs well with other fruity sides. Sometimes when I serve it at family barbecues, I’ll set out a batch of No-Bake Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake for dessert. The combo of creamy and icy textures is always a hit.
How to Make Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids: Step-by-Step Recipe
Making these Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids is honestly one of the simplest ways to beat the summer heat. The recipe is totally beginner-friendly, perfect for letting little hands help in the kitchen. From start to finish, the whole process takes just a few basic steps—and a little bit of freezer time.
Before we jump into the detailed instructions, here’s a quick look at the prep and nutrition:
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Freeze Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories (for the whole recipe): 600-650 calories
- Protein: 6-8g
- Fat: 0-2g
- Carbs: 150-160g
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups seedless watermelon cubes
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 7-Up or Sprite for serving
Optional: Fresh mint or a lemon slice for garnish.
If you’re in the mood for more fresh fruit fun, you might also like trying my Fresas con Crema for dessert after these slushies.
Step 1: Blend the Watermelon
Start by cutting your watermelon into cubes (about 6 cups worth). Toss them into your blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and looks like fresh watermelon juice.
Step 2: Strain the Juice
Set a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl or a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Pour the blended watermelon through the strainer to catch any pulp or seeds. Use a spoon to help push the liquid through if needed. This keeps your slushie smooth and sip-friendly.
If you’re looking for more kid-friendly drinks, my Cranberry Fluff is another fun, no-fuss option for family gatherings.
Step 3: Sweeten and Add a Flavor Kick
Now it’s time to jazz up that fresh watermelon juice. Stir in 1/4 cup of white sugar and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Make sure the sugar fully dissolves. This small touch of sweetness and acidity really helps balance the natural flavor of the watermelon.
Step 4: Freeze the Mixture
Transfer the bowl or dish to your freezer. Let it chill for about 2 to 3 hours. But don’t forget this important step: Every 45 minutes, pull it out and use a fork to scrape and stir the mixture. This will break up the ice crystals and give you that classic slushy texture.
Step 5: Scrape and Serve
Once fully frozen and slushy, use a large spoon to scrape up the ice into fluffy shavings. Spoon the slush into glasses, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
Step 6: Add the Fizz and Garnish
Right before serving, pour a splash of 7-Up or Sprite over the top of each glass. This gives the drink a fizzy lift that kids absolutely love.
Garnish with a sprig of mint, a wedge of lemon, or even a few frozen berries if you’re feeling fancy.
Creative Watermelon Slush Variations & Fun Serving Ideas for Kids
Once you’ve mastered the classic Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids, it’s time to get creative! This recipe is endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just need a quick afternoon refresher, these fun variations will keep your kids asking for more.
Frozen Watermelon Popsicles
If you have leftover slush mix, pour it into popsicle molds and freeze overnight. The next day, your kids will have fruity, hydrating watermelon ice pops—a perfect grab-and-go treat.
For more no-fuss frozen ideas, check out my Raw Carrot Salad, which pairs beautifully with fruity slushies for a light summer lunch.
Watermelon Layered Slush Drinks
Want to make it Instagram-worthy? Freeze layers of different fruit slushies. Start with your watermelon layer, freeze slightly, then add a layer of strawberry puree (like from my Strawberry Puree recipe). Repeat until your glass is full of colorful, fruity stripes.
Your kids will love the bright, fun colors—and you’ll love how easy it is.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Summer Drink for Kids
If you’ve been looking for a simple, refreshing, and fun summer drink, these Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids are it. They’re naturally sweet, super customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles on hot afternoons.
Whether you stick with the basic recipe or play around with add-ins like mint, lime, or strawberries, this drink delivers both flavor and hydration.
And if you’re on the hunt for more easy fruit-forward treats, don’t miss my Peach Cobbler for dessert or the fun and festive Cranberry Fluff for potlucks.
So grab that blender, call the kids, and let’s make summer delicious!
FAQs About Easy Watermelon Slushies for Kids
How do you make a watermelon slushie for kids?
Start by blending fresh seedless watermelon until smooth. Strain the juice, add a bit of sugar and lemon juice, then freeze the mixture, stirring every 45 minutes. Scrape the ice into slushy pieces and serve with a splash of soda for extra fizz.
What are the ingredients in watermelon Icee?
Traditional watermelon Icees usually include watermelon flavoring, sugar, water, and ice or ice crystals. Our homemade version uses real watermelon, sugar, lemon juice, and a fizzy drink like 7-Up to mimic that light, refreshing texture.
What to make out of frozen watermelon?
You can turn frozen watermelon chunks into smoothies, slushies, or even popsicles. It also makes a great base for fruit sorbets or as ice cubes for summer drinks.
How do you make watermelon ice blended?
Blend frozen watermelon cubes with a little liquid (like Sprite, lemonade, or coconut water) until smooth. You can also add ice cubes for a thicker texture.