Perfect Homemade Popsicles

July 23, 2019
| Created by Melanie Taylor, MS, RDN, CD

Long summer days with kids out of school means we go through snacks at my house at an alarming rate. Popsicles are a crowd favorite, but instead of filling my freezer with artificially sweetened or high fructose corn syrup laden ice pops, I’m trying some of these better options to help them beat the heat!

Blend honeydew and cantaloupe cubes in the blender with a touch of honey or agave and some lime juice. Pour into molds and freeze.
Mix orange juice with a touch of half and half, vanilla extract, and orange extract for a creamsicle treat. Pour into molds and freeze.
Fill mold 2/3 full with pomegranate juice. Add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt and swirl with a toothpick. Freeze and enjoy!
Puree raspberries and push through a wire strainer to get just the juice. Add a bit of honey to taste and freeze in molds. 
Blend equal parts strawberries and watermelon with a little honey or agave. Pour into molds and freeze.
Try this beautiful Mixed Fruit Coconut Popsicle recipe from Harmons.

You could also add whole fruit to any of these or try mini popsicles by freezing in ice cube trays with toothpicks. By using fresh fruits and adding sweeteners yourself, you can still offer a cool, sweet treat while providing superior nutrition to most pre-packaged popsicles. 

 

Happy summer everyone, from my tribe to yours!