How To Cut A Watermelon Into Sticks

Learn how to cut watermelon sticks! A fast & easy way to cut a watermelon that takes the struggle out of slicing this delicious summer fruit.

What fruit do you typically grab before heading to a summer party or chopping up a summer snack? Watermelon is definitely the go-to fruit in our house! The juiciness and refreshing flavor of watermelon make it the ultimate summer treat. 

Check out these other delicious summer snacks that everyone raves about! Easy Summer Fruit Salad Recipe (with a dressing), Summer Fruit Kabobs,and Watermelon Balls.

How to Tell If A Watermelon Is Ripe?

To determine if it’s a good watermelon that ripe and ready to eat, you can follow these guidelines:

1. Check the field spot: Look for the creamy yellow or light yellow patch on the underside of the watermelon where it rested on the ground. A ripe watermelon will have a well-developed field spot.
2. Tap it: Gently tap the watermelon with your knuckles. If it produces a deep, hollow sound, it’s likely ripe. If the sound is dull or flat, it may not be fully ripe.
3. Examine the skin: A ripe juicy watermelon usually has a dull skin, rather than a shiny one. Additionally, the skin should be firm and free from cuts, bruises, or blemishes.
4. Evaluate weight: Ripe watermelons are typically heavier than unripe ones of the same size. Lift the watermelon and compare its weight to other similar-sized watermelons to get a sense of its ripeness.
5. Use your senses: Give the watermelon a gentle sniff. Ripe watermelons tend to have a sweet, fresh aroma. Additionally, if you can gently press the skin and it gives slightly under your finger without being too soft or mushy, it’s a good indication of ripeness.

Remember that these methods are not foolproof, and it may take some practice to become adept at determining the ripeness of a watermelon.

Step By Step Instructions

Finding the best way to cut a watermelon use to be a challenge but we quickly realized that cutting a watermelon into sticks is the way to go. Once you cut your next watermelon into sticks, there is no going back… trust us!

Watermelon sticks are perfect for small hands to eat, great for storing & quick to cut. Also, watermelon is a fantastic way to get children to eat more fruit. While we prefer watermelon sticks, you can learn how to cube a watermelon too.

To get started, grab the watermelon, a cutting board or flat surface, and a sharp knife then follow the step-by-step directions below!

Wash

Start by rinsing the watermelon really well under running water and scrubbing off any dirt (this is a great task for kids to complete!)

We do not remove the rind prior to slicing into sticks but it is an option if desired. We find keeping the rind makes it easier for kids to hold and creates less of a mess.

Cut

On a large cutting board, using a sharp chef’s knife, very carefully cut the watermelon in half. Then, turn the cut side of the watermelon flat onto the cutting board.

Pro Tip: A sharp knife is key when slicing a watermelon to prevent injuries.

Slice

Start to slice, working from one side to the other. Turn the melon halfway and start cutting the opposite direction, making cube-sized shapes.

What can I serve with watermelon sticks?

Once you cut your watermelon into sticks, you have endless possibilities on dipping options. Check out all these delicious recipes to find your favorite!

• Cool Whip
• Simple Homemade Chocolate Sauce
• Caramel Sauce
• Greek or non-fat yogurt 
• Fruit Dip with Cool Whip

We recommend trying a new dip each time. An extra fun way to serve these sticks is setting up a station that contains a variety of dipping options for kids to pick from. It is a great set-up for poolside days, summer parties or family gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mix It Up: You can also serve watermelon sticks (rindless) in salads, smoothies or fruit bowls.

More Fruit and Vegetable Guides

• How To Cut a Pineapple
• How-To Cut a Mango
• Cut A Watermelon Into Cubes
• How To Cut A Bell Pepper
• How-To Freeze Strawberries

Looking for more snack ideas this summer?

Check out these healthy snacks! Mug Pizza, Seven Layer Bean Dip, Healthy Energy Balls, Healthy Fudge Recipe, Oatmeal Peanut Butter Balls, and Yogurt Parfaits.