Sicilian Watermelon Pudding with Cinnamon Twist (Gelo Di Melone)
Description:
Gelo Di Melone is a traditional Sicilian dessert that captures the essence of summer with its refreshing and unique flavor. This recipe transforms the classic watermelon pudding by introducing a delightful cinnamon twist, adding a warm and aromatic layer to the sweetness of the watermelon. The pudding is made by blending fresh watermelon, boiling it with a cornstarch mixture, and infusing it with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon. The final touch—crunchy walnuts—provides a beautiful contrast in texture, making this dessert both indulgent and refreshing. Whether served as a stand-alone treat or paired with a meal, this dessert is sure to leave an impression. In Sicily, it’s often topped with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, but in this recipe, the addition of cinnamon elevates the flavor to new heights.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Watermelon (chopped into chunks) | 2 1/3 cups |
| Corn flour | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1/4 inch |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Walnuts (chopped for garnish) | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~35g |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Fat | ~3g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugars | ~25g |
| Sodium | ~5mg |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (including refrigeration)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Watermelon Puree:
Start by deseeding the fresh watermelon and cutting it into large chunks. Place the watermelon chunks in a hand blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture into a bowl to remove any pulp. Measure out 2 cups of the watermelon puree and reserve about 5 teaspoons of the puree for later use. -
Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of the watermelon puree with the cornflour. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps. This will help thicken the pudding when combined with the rest of the ingredients. -
Cook the Watermelon Mixture:
In a saucepan, combine the remaining watermelon puree, the cornstarch mixture, sugar, vanilla extract, and the cinnamon stick. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the pudding thickens to a custard-like consistency. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent lumps from forming. -
Prepare the Ramekins:
While the pudding is cooking, prepare your ramekins or molds by rinsing them with water. Do not dry them, as the moisture will help the pudding slide out once it’s set. -
Set the Pudding:
Once the mixture has thickened, remove the cinnamon stick and pour the pudding mixture into the prepared ramekins. Cover the ramekins with clear plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the pudding to fully set. -
Serve:
After the pudding has chilled, remove the plastic wrap. You can either serve the pudding in the ramekins or unmold it. To unmold, gently rub the ramekin between your palms to loosen the pudding. Invert the ramekin onto a plate, slightly tilting it, and give it a couple of gentle taps to release the pudding. -
Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish each serving of the Sicilian Watermelon Pudding with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon powder and a handful of chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy this refreshing, fragrant treat!
Serving Suggestions
This Sicilian Watermelon Pudding with Cinnamon Twist (Gelo Di Melone) makes for an excellent dessert at any gathering, from casual tea parties to more festive occasions. Pair it with other Italian-inspired dishes like Spaghetti Aglio Olio with Bacon or Garlic Bread with Herb Butter for a complete meal experience.
Tips & Variations:
- Whipped Cream Topping: For an extra indulgent touch, top the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese.
- Chocolate Shavings: Add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings to give this dessert a more decadent finish.
- Alternative Nuts: While walnuts are used here for garnish, you can experiment with other nuts like pistachios or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy your homemade Gelo Di Melone with a twist of cinnamon—this dessert is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful, colorful addition to any table!
