Ah, summer—the season of sunburns, ice-cold drinks, and that relentless quest for something refreshing to beat the heat. Watermelon popsicles, anyone? They’re like tiny, frozen miracles on a stick—perfect for when the sun feels like it’s throwing a tantrum. Plus, making them is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as eating the whole pie without a fork.
Steps
- Cut a medium-sized watermelon into cubes, aiming for about 6 cups in total. For best results, use a seedless watermelon to avoid bitterness.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice, about 2 tablespoons, which will add a refreshing tang to the popsicles. Alternatively, fresh lemon juice can be used if preferred.
- Combine the watermelon cubes and lime juice in a blender. Blend the mixture until it becomes completely smooth.
- Pour the blended watermelon mixture into popsicle molds, ensuring to leave about ½ inch of space at the top for expansion as they freeze.
- Place the lids on the molds and insert popsicle sticks if they are not built-in. Freeze the popsicles for at least 4 hours or overnight until they are fully set.
- Once frozen, remove the popsicles from the molds and enjoy this refreshing summer treat. Store any extras in the freezer and consume them within 3 months for optimal flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed watermelon (approximately from 1 medium-sized watermelon)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
FAQ
- How do I select a ripe watermelon?
- Choose a melon that feels heavy for its size. Look for the “field spot,” which is the area where the watermelon rested on the ground. A yellow or cream-colored spot indicates ripeness, while a pale white spot does not. Additionally, give it a knock; a ripe watermelon will have a hollow sound.
- Can I use other fruits in this popsicle recipe?
- Absolutely! You can combine watermelon with other fruits like strawberries or even try using entirely different fruits such as mango. Feel free to experiment with flavors to find your favorite combination.
- What should I do if my watermelon has seeds?
- If your watermelon contains seeds, it’s best to remove them before blending as they can add bitterness to the mixture. Opt for a seedless watermelon to make the process easier.
- How can I make these popsicles creamier?
- To add a creamy texture to your popsicles, blend in some whole milk Greek yogurt or coconut milk with the watermelon puree.
- How long can I store the watermelon popsicles in the freezer?
- These popsicles are best enjoyed within 3 months. While they can last longer in the freezer, their flavor is most vibrant when consumed sooner.
Tips
- Involve the Kids: Making watermelon popsicles is a fun activity for children. Let them operate the blender under supervision or insert the popsicle sticks into the molds, making the process enjoyable for the whole family.
- Opt for Seedless Watermelon: To ensure a smooth texture and avoid bitterness, use seedless watermelon. If your watermelon has seeds, carefully remove them before blending.
- Allow for Expansion: When filling the popsicle molds, leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top. This allows the liquid to expand as it freezes, preventing overflow.
- Consume Within 3 Months: Although these popsicles are likely to be enjoyed quickly, they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. For the best taste, try to finish them within this timeframe.
Equipment
- Blender
- Popsicle molds
- Popsicle sticks (if not included with the molds)
