How to Tap a Watermelon Keg
Updated: May 02, 2023
Let's just say we have a new favorite way to enjoy watermelon.
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Hosting a summer grill-out or backyard bash takes a lot of careful planning. And if you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to take your gathering to the next level. Whether I show off my creative serving ideas, unbeatable recipes or a killer playlist, I want my parties to be epic. Which is why, when I found out about the watermelon keg, I knew I had to try it. Here’s what happened.
Here are more fun ways to eat watermelon this summer.
What is a watermelon keg?
This clever idea has been making the rounds on social media for a while (just like these genius TikTok products). But essentially it’s a hollow watermelon “tapped” with a faucet and filled with your beverage of choice. The keg makes a fun centerpiece, and is a practical serving idea for anyone who doesn’t own party-size beverage dispensers. You can also make kegs with pumpkins, other melons and even pineapples!
How to Make a Watermelon Keg
Tools and Supplies:
- Keg tapping kit. First and foremost, you’re going to need the Final Touch watermelon keg tapping kit. This crucial tool includes the keg tap and a coring tool for easy dispensing.
- Sharp knife. To effortlessly slice off the top of your watermelon, you’re going to need the right tool. We recommend this Kuhn Rikon watermelon knife. Not only does it look cute, but it has ultra-sharp blades for cutting through even the toughest melon rind. Speaking of, learn how to cut a watermelon.
- Large bowl. You need an empty watermelon to make a keg. However, you should still enjoy all of the fruit! Scoop it into this extra-large American Metalcraft stainless steel mixing bowl for easy snacking.
- Serving spoon. A sturdy utensil, like this OXO Good Grips stainless steel spoon, makes removing all of that watermelon flesh a breeze.
- Summer drinkware. When it’s time to serve, pull out these Estilo mason jar mugs for sweet, summertime sippin’.
- Ingredients. Before the party, pick up a large watermelon and your beverage of choice. We suggest canned alcoholic beverages, watermelon punch or your favorite rosé wine.
Directions
Step 1: Get level
First, give your watermelon a flat side to keep it level. Some watermelons stand naturally straight, but others require you to cut a little bit off of the bottom. To level your melon, use a large knife to horizontally slice away 1/3 of an inch of rind at the fruit’s base. Try to avoid cutting too far into the watermelon’s flesh, though, otherwise your keg could leak.
Step 2: Scoop it out
Next, cut about 1/2 an inch off of the top of the melon to serve as a lid. Stand the watermelon upright and use a serving spoon to hollow out the melon. Place the fruit flesh in a large bowl. Leave about 2 inches of fruit at the bottom of the melon to help prevent leaks.
Editor’s Tip: We suggest using the fruit to whip up watermelon margaritas or a crowd-pleasing punch to serve out of your keg. Or, just save the fruit for snacking! (Fruit lovers need this watermelon slicer tool, too.)
Step 3: Time to tap
Now that your watermelon is hollow, it’s time to tap! Grab your Final Touch watermelon keg tapping kit and use the coring tool to create a hole in the melon about 2 to 3 inches from the bottom. Then, insert your faucet and secure it to the melon with a locking nut on the inside of the fruit. Make sure that the tap is snug, but don’t twist too hard or you could penetrate the melon’s rind and create a leak.
Step 4: Fill ‘er up!
Fill your watermelon with a refreshing drink, replace the lid and get ready to party! For best results, place the keg on the edge of a table, in a bowl or on a cake plate so guests can easily fill their glasses. Avoid serving anything too thick or chunky in the keg as the tap will clog.
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