There is no better summer treat than fun in the sun popsicles! Homemade popsicles are a delicious and healthy alternative to store bought. They’re as easy to make as you would think – and the flavor possibilities are endless!
What You’ll Need
Molds
If you want your popsicles to have that traditional look, popsicle molds with sticks can be found wherever kitchen goods are sold. However, popsicles not made in traditional molds will still taste great. Any number of things you probably already have in your kitchen can double as molds such as ice cube trays, shot glasses, paper cups, small muffin tins, and yogurt cups.
Sticks
For traditional popsicles or larger popsicles, disposable wooden or reusable food safe sticks can be purchased. For ice cube sized popsicles, a sturdy toothpick will suffice. To use your sticks, place tin foil over the top of your container and poke the stick through the center. The foil will hold the stick in place.
Ingredients – The Good Stuff
Literally, there is no end to the combinations of flavors you can use in your popsicles. There are, however, a few rules of thumb to make sure your end result is the right texture – more biteable or creamy and less icy. Here’s what you want to remember:
It’s the sugar, fruit fiber, and fat that will give you a smoother or creamier popsicle. If you don’t want added sugar (in the form of simple syrup) in your popsicles, use a fruit puree as the base. Still want to add some sweetness? Try adding in honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup.
If you want a creamy taste, in addition to your juice base add in either Greek yogurt (regular yogurt has too high a water content and won’t give you the texture you’re looking for), full fat coconut milk from a can, or a bit of softened cream cheese.
Have a favorite smoothie? Then you probably have a tasty popsicle recipe. Throw in some chunks of fruit if you like! And don’t worry if there are veggies in your smoothie. If it makes a tasty drink, it will make a tasty popsicle! Green popsicles anyone?
Freezing
Generally speaking, popsicles require a minimum of 2-3 hours in the freezer to set.
Unmolding
If you need help getting your popsicles out of your chosen mold, quickly running the mold under hot water should do the trick.
Uh Oh
Have popsicles that just won’t freeze or come out too icy? Chances are you added too much sugar or fat (milk products) to your popsicle. Take the popsicles off the stick and put them in a blender. Add some solid fruit or juice, whatever you prefer, and with a few blends you’ve got a slushie!
For the Grown Ups
Want a little more out of your fun in the sun popsicles? Looking to turn your favorite cocktail into a popsicle? Most cocktails work out great. Just be careful with the amount of alcohol you use as vodka, gin, and whiskey don’t freeze well. More failsafe options include rum, bourbon, Kalua, and other cream-based liqueurs.
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