Watermelon Ice Popsicles Recipe
Refreshing, fruity, and easy to make, these Watermelon Ice Popsicles are the perfect treat for hot summer days! Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a barbecue, or just looking for a sweet snack, these homemade popsicles will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The natural sweetness of watermelon combined with a touch of lemon juice offers a light and refreshing dessert that’s not only healthy but also fun to eat.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Watermelon (cubed, seeds removed) | 1 medium watermelon |
| Sugar (adjust to taste) | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 3 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~40 kcal |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Vitamin C | 10% of Daily Value |
| Potassium | 100 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation & Cooking Time:
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Servings: 5 (based on typical popsicle mold size)
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Watermelon:
Start by cutting the watermelon into cubes, ensuring to remove all the seeds. This is crucial for a smooth, seed-free popsicle base. Depending on the size of your watermelon, you may need to use half or more to yield enough juice for the popsicles. -
Blend the Watermelon:
Place the cubed watermelon into a blender or food processor. Add the sugar and blend until the mixture reaches a thick, juice-like consistency. For a smooth texture, you can sieve the blended mixture to remove any leftover pulp, though this is optional. -
Add Lemon Juice:
Once the watermelon is blended to your desired consistency, add the lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the lemon juice is fully incorporated into the mixture. The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the watermelon. -
Fill the Popsicle Molds:
Pour the watermelon mixture into your popsicle molds. If you like, you can also add small chunks of extra watermelon to the molds for an added burst of texture and flavor. Make sure the molds are filled to the top, and gently tap them on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles. -
Freeze:
Place the filled molds in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely. This typically takes about 4 to 6 hours, but for best results, leave them overnight. The popsicles should be firm and ready to pop out of their molds once frozen. -
Unmold the Popsicles:
When you’re ready to serve, remove the popsicle molds from the freezer. To easily release the popsicles, dip the bottom of the molds into lukewarm water for a few seconds. This will loosen the popsicles without causing them to melt. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these refreshing watermelon popsicles immediately, perfect for a hot day or as a fun treat for kids after playtime. The natural sweetness and citrusy zing from the lemon juice make this dessert a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your watermelon, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more if needed, tasting as you go.
- Add Mint: For an extra burst of freshness, you can add a handful of chopped mint leaves to the blender along with the watermelon and sugar. It gives the popsicles a cool, aromatic flavor.
- Make it a Fusion: You can experiment by mixing in other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi. A mix of berries and watermelon can add complexity and vibrant color to your popsicles.
These Watermelon Ice Popsicles are an easy and delightful way to cool off during the summer heat. Their fresh ingredients and simple preparation make them the perfect dessert or snack, and their natural sweetness means you can indulge without any guilt. Enjoy the natural goodness of watermelon, with a tangy twist of lemon, in every bite!
