Watermelon Popsicles

As the sun blazes high in the sky, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a delightful watermelon popsicle. Bursting with vibrant flavors and invigorating textures, these delightful frozen treats encapsulate the essence of summer! Serve them at family barbecues, pool parties, or simply enjoy them as a quick afternoon snack. The refreshing sweetness of watermelon is perfectly complemented by the rich creaminess of coconut milk and the zesty undertones of kiwi.

What You’ll Need for Watermelon Popsicles

Complete Ingredients List

• 19 oz cubed seedless watermelon (about 3 1/2 cups)
• 5 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar, divided
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk, well shaken
• 13 oz kiwi (about 6 medium)
• 1 Tbsp mini chocolate chips

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Watermelon: If watermelon isn’t available, you can substitute it with honeydew or cantaloupe, which provide a similar sweetness and texture.
• Sugar: For a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup. For a sugar-free option, use a natural sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
• Coconut Milk: You can swap it for almond milk or oat milk for a different flavor profile. Ensure that you use a full-fat canned version for creaminess if desired.
• Kiwi: If kiwis are out of season, consider using other tart fruits like green apple or green grapes for a similar flavor experience.
• Chocolate Chips: For a nut-free alternative, consider using cacao nibs or leave them out entirely.

How to Make Watermelon Popsicles

Making watermelon popsicles is an easy and enjoyable process that even kids can get involved with. Follow the steps below to ensure your popsicles turn out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Blend Watermelon Mixture

Start by adding the cubed seedless watermelon, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and lemon juice to a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well pureed. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface and pour the watermelon puree into popsicle molds, filling each mold about two-thirds full. After pouring, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the tops, gently pushing them down with the popsicle sticks. Cover the molds with their lids and insert the sticks. Freeze the molds for approximately 3 and a half hours to set the watermelon layer.

Step 2: Prepare Coconut Milk Layer

As the watermelon freezes, whisk together 1/2 cup of chilled canned coconut milk with 1 and a half tablespoons of granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let the coconut milk mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. After the watermelon layer has frozen for around 3 hours, pour a scant tablespoon of the coconut milk mixture over the frozen watermelon layer, cleaning off any spills on the sides. Cover the molds again and return them to the freezer, leaving them uncovered to chill for another 45 minutes.

Step 3: Make Kiwi Layer

While the coconut layer freezes, peel and chop the kiwis. Add the kiwi pieces and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, creating a smooth kiwi puree. Chill this kiwi mixture in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes. Once the coconut layer is set, pour about 1 tablespoon of the kiwi mixture over the coconut layer in each popsicle mold. Return the molds to the freezer and chill until completely solid, which typically takes about 2 to 3 hours.

Step 4: Release Popsicles from Molds

When the popsicles are fully frozen and solid, it’s time to enjoy this delightful treat! To remove the popsicles from the molds, hold the tray sideways and run warm water over the outside of the plastic molds for several seconds. This action will gently loosen the popsicles, allowing you to carefully pull them out. Your refreshing watermelon popsicles are now ready to serve and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Watermelon Popsicles

How to Serve Watermelon Popsicles

Watermelon popsicles should be served chilled to maximize the refreshing experience. They can be enjoyed right after removing them from the freezer. If you find they have become too icy, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes to soften slightly.

For an elegant presentation, consider placing them in a tall glass or on a colorful plate garnished with mint leaves or additional slices of kiwi and watermelon. You might also want to create a popsicle platter, displaying them with some fun straws for a vibrant look.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

While watermelon popsicles are delightful on their own, feel free to experiment with different toppings. Consider drizzling a bit of honey or chocolate sauce over them for added sweetness. You can also sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped nuts for a crunch. For an extra dimension of flavor, serve the popsicles alongside a yogurt dip or a fruity salsa made with mango or pineapple to enhance the tropical vibe!

Storing & Preserving Watermelon Popsicles

Best Storage Methods

Store your watermelon popsicles in the freezer to keep them fresh and firm. If you have leftover popsicles, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer without losing their delightful taste and texture.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

There’s no need to reheat watermelon popsicles since they are best enjoyed frozen. However, if they have started to melt, place them right back into the freezer to regain their solid state. It’s important to not refreeze popsicles that have been thawed completely as it will affect their texture.

Tips for Perfect Watermelon Popsicles Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overfilling Molds: Filling molds too high can lead to spills and mess. Fill each mold only two-thirds full to allow for expansion as they freeze.
• Rushing the Freezing Process: Allowing the popsicles to freeze adequately is crucial. Avoid trying to remove them too early, or they may break or remain stuck in the molds.
• Skimming Foam Inadequately: Skimming off excess foam from the blended mixture is important for achieving a smooth texture. Don’t skip this step, as it can lead to air pockets in the popsicles.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Utilize Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh, ripe watermelon and kiwi for the best flavor and sweetness. The quality of your ingredients will reflect in the final product.
• Experiment with Layers: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding in layers of other fruits or even a splash of fruit juice for added flavor.
• Use High-Quality molds: Consider investing in high-quality popsicle molds which can make the removal process easier and result in better-shaped popsicles.

Fun Variations of Watermelon Popsicles

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Watermelon popsicles can serve as a canvas for your creativity. You might want to try:

• Tropical Paradise: Adding pineapple or mango to the watermelon base for a tropical twist.
• Minty Fresh: Blend in fresh mint for a refreshing mint-watermelon flavor.
• Berry Bliss: Incorporate blueberries or strawberries into the kiwi layer for a mixed berry experience.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To cater to various dietary needs:

• Vegan Version: Ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly, or replace it with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace sugar with erythritol or stevia to keep the carb count low while retaining the sweetness.

FAQs

What If My Watermelon Popsicles Don’t Turn Out Right?

If your popsicles are too icy or hard, consider letting them thaw slightly before serving. This will help restore some of the texture. If they don’t hold together well, it may be due to not freezing long enough or excessive liquid without enough fruit solids, so ensure accurate measurements.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! Watermelon popsicles can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer. Make them several days ahead of an event, ensuring that they are covered appropriately to keep out air.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap out various ingredients based on availability or dietary preferences. Common swaps include using other fruits in place of watermelon (like strawberry), substituting sugar with natural sweeteners, or using different non-dairy milk options to meet dietary restrictions.

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