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You can put liquor in a watermelon by cutting a small hole in the rind, inserting a funnel, and pouring your favorite alcohol directly into the fruit.
The watermelon acts like a natural sponge, absorbing the liquor over several hours or overnight.
This creates a boozy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer parties and backyard cookouts.
If you’ve ever wondered how do you put liquor in a watermelon, the process is simpler than you might think.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to put liquor in a watermelon, the best alcohols to use, and a few tips to get it right every time.
Let’s dive in.
How Do You Put Liquor in a Watermelon?
Putting liquor in a watermelon comes down to three simple steps: prep, pour, and wait.
Here’s how it works.
1. Choose the Right Watermelon
Start with a ripe, firm watermelon that feels heavy for its size.
A good watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound when you tap it.
Avoid anything too soft or overly ripe, since it won’t hold up well once you start adding liquor.
A medium to large watermelon works best because it gives you more surface area to absorb the alcohol.
2. Cut a Hole and Insert a Funnel
Use a sharp knife to cut a small circular hole in the top of the watermelon, about an inch or two wide.
You can also cut a plug-style opening that you can replace later if you want to keep the rind looking intact.
Once the hole is open, insert a clean funnel into it.
This is the key step in how do you put liquor in a watermelon without making a mess.
3. Pour the Liquor Slowly
Pour your chosen liquor through the funnel in small amounts.
Don’t rush this part, because the watermelon can only absorb so much at once.
A good rule of thumb is about one cup of liquor for a medium watermelon and up to two cups for a large one.
If the liquid starts pooling on top, give it a few minutes to soak in before adding more.
4. Let It Sit Overnight
Once you’ve poured the liquor in, cover the hole with plastic wrap or replace the plug you cut out.
Place the watermelon in the fridge and let it sit for at least 8 to 12 hours, ideally overnight.
This gives the liquor plenty of time to distribute evenly through the fruit.
When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy.
Best Liquor to Put in a Watermelon
Not all alcohol works the same when you put liquor in a watermelon.
Here are the best options to try.
1. Vodka
Vodka is the most popular choice because it has a neutral flavor that lets the watermelon’s natural sweetness shine through.
It also absorbs quickly and evenly, making it a reliable pick if you’re learning how do you put liquor in a watermelon.
2. Tequila
Tequila pairs beautifully with watermelon and gives it a margarita-like vibe.
Add a squeeze of lime juice after you pour the tequila for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Rum
White rum or coconut rum adds a tropical twist that works great for beach parties and summer gatherings.
It’s a fun way to put liquor in a watermelon and switch up the usual flavor.
4. Flavored Liqueurs
If you want something sweeter, try flavored liqueurs like peach schnapps, triple sec, or watermelon schnapps.
Just keep in mind that these are sweeter and often lower in alcohol, so you may need a bit more to get the same effect.
Tips for Putting Liquor in a Watermelon
Getting the process right makes all the difference when you put liquor in a watermelon.
1. Chill Everything First
Both the watermelon and the liquor should be cold before you start.
A cold watermelon absorbs the alcohol more evenly and keeps the fruit from getting mushy too fast.
2. Don’t Overpour
It’s tempting to add more liquor for a stronger kick, but too much will turn the watermelon into a soggy mess.
Stick to the recommended amount and let the fruit do its job.
3. Rotate the Watermelon
Halfway through the soaking time, flip the watermelon over or gently rotate it.
This helps the liquor spread more evenly so every slice tastes consistent.
4. Serve Within a Day or Two
Once you put liquor in a watermelon, it’s best enjoyed within 24 to 48 hours.
After that, the fruit starts to break down and lose its firm texture.
So, How Do You Put Liquor in a Watermelon?
You put liquor in a watermelon by cutting a small hole, inserting a funnel, pouring in your chosen alcohol, and letting it soak overnight in the fridge.
It’s one of the easiest ways to turn a simple summer fruit into a party-ready treat.
Whether you use vodka, tequila, rum, or a flavored liqueur, the process is the same and the results are always a hit.
Now that you know how do you put liquor in a watermelon, grab one at your next cookout and watch it disappear.