Make Your Own Popsicles!
Longer, hotter days mean summer is on the way, and that brings classic seasonal foods—watermelon, corn on the cob, potato salad, cherry pie, and of course, popsicles. Popsicles are the ultimate summer treat: sweet, icy, and refreshing.
Many commercial popsicles are loaded with refined sugar, which makes them tasty but not very healthy. The good news is you can make delicious, naturally sweet popsicles at home using fresh fruit. Fruit is nature’s candy, and when you make your own popsicles you control every ingredient—no added sugar required unless you want it.
If you’re worried about time, don’t be. The fruit popsicle recipes here are quick and simple. Most can be blended and frozen with minimal effort, so “popsicle chef” doesn’t have to become a new full-time job.
Before you begin, you’ll need a mold. Popsicle molds come in plastic, silicone, and many fun shapes; some include reusable sticks. Molds are inexpensive but not required—you can use small paper or plastic cups as an alternative. If you plan to make popsicles often, a mold is handy and helps reduce waste.
A couple of tips: liquids expand when frozen, so leave a little space at the top of each mold. Also, freeze the filled molds for 20–30 minutes before inserting sticks. That initial chill helps the sticks stay upright so your popsicles have proper support while freezing and when you eat them.
Below are some favorite real-fruit flavor combinations to inspire you. These are suggestions—feel free to mix and match and invent your own. Making popsicles is a fun, creative activity for kids and a great way to introduce them to new fruits.
For each combination, puree the ingredients in a blender, taste the mixture, then pour into molds and freeze for 3–4 hours until solid. If the puree needs a touch more sweetness, add a small amount of maple syrup, honey, or another natural sweetener to taste.
Our Favorite REAL Fruit Popsicle Combinations:
Some classic combinations to try: blueberry with raspberry for a bright, tangy pop; watermelon and strawberry for an ultra-refreshing treat; mango with pineapple for a tropical burst; kiwi for a bright, slightly tart option; and honeydew or cantaloupe for a mild, subtly sweet choice. Blend fruit alone or add a splash of citrus juice or a tablespoon of yogurt for creaminess.
Experiment to find your favorites and involve kids in the process. Children are often more willing to try new fruits when they’re served as popsicles. When you discover a winning combo, share it with friends and family so they can enjoy it too.