We got our hands on an early preview of Malai: Frozen Desserts Inspired by South Asian Flavors, the debut cookbook from Pooja Bavishi, founder of Malai Ice Cream—and we had to share this healthy watermelon sherbet recipe.

Inspired by the nostalgic charm of Friendly’s iconic Wattamelon Roll, this homemade frozen dessert delivers all the fun of the original with a better-for-you twist. Think: vibrant watermelon flavor, natural sweetness, and those classic chocolate chip “seeds” (a must!). It’s a simple, refreshing, and healthier treat—perfect for hot days and easy to whip up at home.

How to Make This Watermelon Sherbet from the Malai Cookbook

MAKES 2 QUARTS

6 cups seedless watermelon cubes (from about ½ mini seedless watermelon)

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk (For healthier alternative use Coconut Milk + Organic Maple Syrup or Honey)

2 tablespoons honey

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup fresh lime juice

¾ cup mini chocolate chips, any kind

Instructions

+ In a blender, combine the watermelon, condensed milk, honey, salt, and lime juice and blend until completely smooth, about 2 minutes.

+ Transfer the mixture to your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, adding the chocolate chips during the last 4 minutes of churning. Serve the soft sherbet right away, or place in the freezer to freeze completely.