These watermelon popsicles are an ideal way to cool off on a hot summer day. With just five simple ingredients and a set of popsicle molds, you can make refreshing, homemade watermelon popsicles that taste far better than store-bought options.
Watermelon Mojito Popsicles
Homemade popsicles are easier to make than most people expect. Living where summers run warm, I’m always reaching for fresh fruit and frozen desserts. Watermelon in season is juicy and cooling, and these popsicles combine that bright watermelon flavor with a creamy, slightly tropical twist.
They’re quick to assemble and can be frozen the same day or prepared a day ahead, so they’re perfect for afternoons when the sun turns up the heat. This basic approach works with many other juices or purees, so feel free to experiment with the fruits you love.
If you’re hosting a summer get-together, pair these popsicles with light grilled fare and easy summer drinks for a complete warm-weather menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No added refined sugar makes these popsicles a family-friendly treat, much healthier than many packaged frozen desserts.
- Watermelon offers hydration plus vitamin C and antioxidants, so these popsicles deliver both flavor and simple nutrition.
- They take only a few minutes to blend and assemble, and they freeze well so you can make a batch ahead and have them ready when you need a cool snack.
Ingredients
Use fresh watermelon when possible, or watermelon you have on hand. For this recipe you will also need:
- Seedless watermelon chunks (about 3 cups)
- Crushed pineapple (about 1 cup)
- Vanilla Greek yogurt (½ cup)
- Heavy cream (¼ cup)
- Lime juice (about 2 teaspoons)
Substitutes and Variations
Swap lime juice for lemon juice or add a touch of lime zest for extra brightness. For a strawberry-watermelon version, swirl in strawberry puree or thin slices of strawberry before freezing. To make a dairy-free batch, use canned coconut milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream and choose a dairy-free yogurt such as coconut or almond yogurt.
You can use plain Greek yogurt or another flavored variety if you prefer. If your watermelon isn’t very sweet, a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup will balance the flavor. Any fruit juice or puree—mango, honeydew, or mixed berries—also works well in place of or in addition to the watermelon.
How to Make Watermelon Popsicles
Follow these straightforward steps for smooth, creamy popsicles:
1. Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender or food processor.
2. Blend until completely smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into reusable popsicle molds, cover if your molds have lids, and insert sticks.
4. Freeze for at least 6 hours, though overnight yields the best texture.
5. When ready to serve, remove the popsicles from molds. If they don’t come out easily, let them sit at room temperature for 5–7 minutes to loosen, then gently pull them free.
Hot Tip: If popsicles stick, hold the mold under warm (not hot) water for a few seconds to help release them cleanly.
How to Store Homemade Watermelon Popsicles
Store extra popsicles in freezer-safe bags or an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. You can also wrap each popsicle individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Because they’re easy to make, you can refresh your supply whenever needed.
Tips for Success
- No popsicle molds? Use mini paper cups or a muffin tin and insert sticks once partially frozen.
- If your puree has excess pulp, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother finish.
- Blend thoroughly so there are no large fruit chunks that make the texture uneven.
- Choose a ripe, flavorful watermelon; a bland melon will yield less sweet popsicles.
- Taste the blended mixture before freezing and add a touch of honey or agave if you prefer it sweeter.
FAQ
Yes. Watermelon is high in water content, and when pureed with the other ingredients here, it forms a creamy, flavorful popsicle that freezes nicely.
You can, but remove the seeds before pureeing. Leaving seeds in can create an unpleasant texture, so seedless watermelon is easiest.
More Summer Recipes
- Corn and Tomato Salad
- Strawberry Banana Smoothie
- The Best Frozen Desserts
- Fudge Popsicles
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Watermelon Popsicles
Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cup crushed pineapple
- ½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender.
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Blend until smooth.
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Pour mixture into popsicle molds.
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Cover molds and insert popsicle sticks.
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Freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results.