This content originally appeared in the 2023 summer issue of Spooky Little Halloween—The Magazine.
You haven’t had a spooky little summer until you’ve carved a jack-o-melon.
I certainly can’t lay claim to the idea of turning a watermelon into a summer jack-o-lantern, but I’ve definitely learned a few dos and don’ts over the years from making them.
You’ll find those below to make the most of your grinning Summerween friend.
Oh, and before you gut your fruit for the ‘Gram and discard the melon, be sure to check out the links to a few recipes at the end of this post. They’d be perfect for a Summerween party!
Tips and tricks for carving jack-o-melons
DO: PICK A MELON WITH A FLAT END
When I’m looking for a watermelon to carve, I start by looking for ones with a flat end so it will stand up straight as a jack-o-melon. Don’t be afraid to test them in the store to make sure they won’t roll away.
DON’T: CUT YOUR HOLE STRAIGHT DOWN
Much like a jack-o-lantern, you want to cut your hole to scoop guts out at an angle. This is even more important with watermelon because its rind isn’t as thick as a pumpkin. An angled hole at the top will ensure the lid stays put post-carving.
DO: GO SLOWLY WHEN SCOOPING OUT THE GUTS
Watermelons are a bit more delicate than a pumpkin and a heck of a lot denser, so it’s gonna take a little time. If you have one of those serrated pumpkin carving spoons, this is a perfect time to use it!
DON’T EXPECT YOUR MELON TO COME OUT PRETTY
It’s going to come out in weird, messy chunks. One thing I do now to make it a little easier is cut a grid pattern into the melon, then scoop it out with a spoon.
DO: ALLOW YOUR JACK-O-MELON TO DRAIN WELL
When you’re done gutting and carving your jack-o-melon, I recommend letting it sit upside down in the sink for a solid two hours. This will help drain the remaining moisture that will seep out of the rind.
DON’T: STORE YOUR JACK-O-MELON ON THE COUNTER
Especially if you want to enjoy it for a while. I always tuck mine in the fridge when its not in use to make it last longer. (Though it will mold eventually, and that’s your sign to toss it.)
Will you carve a jack-o-melon this Summerween?
Share your best tips for making the most of the experience in the comments!
Wondering what to do with the guts? Try these two recipes:
