Last Updated on November 15, 2022 by Kimberly Stroh

Whoever said running is the cheapest way to exercise, doesn’t understand all of the expenses that come along with it! Shoes, race bibs and fuel are just the bare minimum that I need to run. Luckily, these Homemade Watermelon Running Chews are a life-saver to my wallet.

They’re a quick fuel source that I can pop into my mouth, on-the-go, while I’m running. The recipe is easy, comes together quickly and I make a large batch to keep on hand. Plus, they taste so much better than store-bought versions!

*These Homemade Watermelon Running Chews provide quick fuel to give you the best energy!*

Quick fuel, on-the-go during a run, can be priceless to any athlete. From the runner who is just praying to finish, to the elite runners, fuel is vital to their success. During my own journey with testing out fuel during long runs, I’ve come to realize that options with artificial ingredients don’t settle well with my tummy.

I need a quick source of sugar that’s easy to chew, won’t melt in my pocket and tummy-friendly. I created these delicious Homemade Watermelon Running Chews as a great option to take with me. They are easy to make, won’t melt and I can cut them to any size or shape. I guarantee that you’ll feel better on your runs without the artificial additives of other chews.

I’ll share how I make these running chews in bulk and use save them for my future workouts. Once you get the hang of making the fuel yourself, you can flavor the chews to mix it up!

I’m never short on running tips and my years of experience is your gain. I may not be the fastest runner, but I am here to help you. Check out some of these great running tips:

How To Make Homemade Watermelon Running Chews

Basically, you’re going to make a gelatin mixture. For this recipe, you’ll need something to pour the gelatin mixture into. A square glass dish works or small silicone ice trays will save you time later. Once it sets, you’ll have delicious homemade running chews!

To make the mixture, you can use a blender or food processor! Either one will work well.

Why We Love This Recipe

There are so many great reasons to make your own running chews. My biggest reason is to know exactly what goes into my fuel. Whole ingredients make all the difference when you’re running. The last thing I want is something to bother my digestive tract mid-run. I know what goes into the running chews and I can tweak the recipe if I need to, without wasting money.

I also love that I can save money and prevent excess waste. There’s so much mark up on running fuel options and the packets are always littered onto race courses. These running chews are a much more conscious choice!

How To Keep Your Homemade Running Chews Fresh

After the gelatin has completely set, transfer the chews to an airtight food storage container. Keep them away from direct heat and away from moisture. I keep my running chews in the refrigerator until I’m ready to run. When I’m running, I keep them in a waist belt (with plastic wrap) and just pull out a few every 2-3 miles. A few chews is all I need every few miles.

Train With Your Running Chews Before A Race

When you’ve made your first batch of running chews, take them on a training run. Test how your body reacts to the chews. Note how many chews you need per several miles and take note of the chew size. If you need to make the chews smaller, that’s an easy tweak to make for your next batch.

Can You Freeze Running Chews?

Yes! These homemade chews can be frozen. Toss them into a freezer bag and store them in the back of your freezer. The front of the freezer has a tendency to change temperatures often. Let them thaw on the countertop for at least 30 minutes before enjoying again.

Recipe Variations

These Homemade Watermelon Running Chews also make a great snack for the kid’s to take to school or enjoy after playing outside. You can even experiment with different types of fruits. A peach/vanilla combo would be delicious too! The recipe is so easy and versatile.

Always stick to fresh fruits that are seedless. Juicy peaches, nectarines and oranges would be great to use in this recipe.

What You’ll Need From The Store:

Fresh Seedless Watermelon
Granulated Sugar
Lemon Juice
Gelatin

Yield: 1 Dozen Chews

Homemade Watermelon Running Chews

Name: Homemade Watermelon Running Chews
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 1 h 11 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Snacks
Ingredients: 1 1/2 Cups of Fresh Seedless Watermelon; 1 Tablespoon Granulated Sugar; 1/2 Teaspoon Lemon Juice; 1/2 Tablespoons Gelatin (3 Knox Packets)

How to make your own Homemade Watermelon Running Chews for quick fuel mid-run!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 1 minute

Additional Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour 11 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 Cups of Fresh Seedless Watermelon
1 Tablespoon Granulated Sugar
1/2 Teaspoon Lemon Juice
1/2 Tablespoons Gelatin (3 Knox Packets)

Instructions

1. Pour fresh watermelon into a blender and puree until liquid consistency.
2. In a saucepan, over medium heat, heat the fruit, sugar, and lemon juice until sugar has dissolved.
3. Pour in gelatin slowly, whisking to incorporate. Continue to whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved into the fruit mixture.
4. Pour mixture into a glass square pan or silicon pan, and put into the refrigerator for at least one hour. The chews should start to set after an hour in the fridge.
5. Once set, cut into individual pieces and store in an airtight container.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight food storage container and keep refrigerated until ready to run with.

Homemade Watermelon Running Chews