How to Make Healthy Fruit Popsicles with Real, Fresh Fruit
Discover how to make healthy fruit popsicles with real, fresh fruit: berries, peaches, and kiwi. This fun and healthy summer treat is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering endless flavor combinations and a burst of natural sweetness.
Healthy Fruit Popsicles with Real, Fresh Fruit
When the summer sun is blazing, there’s nothing more refreshing than a cold, fruity treat. Instead of reaching for store-bought options loaded with artificial flavors and sugars, why not make your own real fruit popsicles? These homemade popsicles are not only healthier but also incredibly delicious. Today, I’ll guide you through creating vibrant and flavorful popsicles using fresh berries, peaches, and kiwi.
Why Homemade Popsicles?
Healthy fruit popsicles with real, fresh fruit popsicles are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and refreshing snack. Unlike store-bought popsicles, you control the ingredients, ensuring there are no artificial flavors or preservatives. Plus, they are incredibly versatile—you can mix and match your favorite fruits to create unique flavor combinations.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Homemade Fresh Fruit Popsicles
To make these healthy fruit popsicles with real, fresh fruit:
- Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Peaches: Fresh and ripe for a sweet and juicy flavor.
- Kiwi: Adds a tangy twist and vibrant green color.
- Sweetener (optional): Honey, maple syrup, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener if your fruits need a little extra sweetness.
- Water or Juice: To help blend the fruits smoothly.
Tools Required
- Blender or Food Processor
- Popsicle Molds
- Popsicle Sticks
- Knife and Cutting Board
Step-by-Step Instructions for Healthy Homemade Popsicles
Prepare the Fruits:
- Wash all the fruits thoroughly.
- Peel and slice the kiwi.
- Pit and slice the peaches.
- Hull the strawberries if using.
Blend and Press the Fruits:
- Press the strawberry, peach, and kiwi slices against the sides and bottom of each mold.
- Press the fruit against the sides of the mold with a popsicle stick. (This will help you see the fruit better when the juice freezes.)
- Add as much fruit as possible to the mold, pressing it against the sides.
- Puree the peaches until smooth, adding water or juice if necessary. Pour the mixture into a bowl and set aside.
- Fill the molds with peach puree juice or the juice you choose, leaving about 1/4″ of space at the top for the juice to expand when it freezes.
Insert Popsicle Sticks:
* Insert the sticks into the molds. If your molds don’t have slots for sticks, partially freeze the popsicles (about an hour) before inserting the sticks.
Freeze:
- Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
Unmold and Enjoy:
- To remove the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. Gently pull on the sticks to release the popsicles.
Tips for Perfect Popsicles
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the purees before freezing. If they’re not sweet enough, add a bit of honey or agave syrup.
- Add Creaminess: Add a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt to the fruit purees for a creamy texture.
Why You Should Make Real Fruit Popsicles
Healthy fruit popsicles with real, fresh fruit are not just a summer treat—they are a delightful way to enjoy fresh fruits’ natural flavors and health benefits. Here are several reasons why you should make this recipe:
Health Benefits
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, real fruit popsicles offer a nutritious boost. Berries are rich in vitamin C and fiber, peaches provide vitamin A and potassium, and kiwi is an excellent source of vitamins K and E.
- Low in Calories: Compared to store-bought popsicles that are often high in sugars and artificial ingredients, these homemade versions are naturally low in calories and free from unhealthy additives without added sugar.
- Hydration: Fruits have a high water content, which helps keep you hydrated on hot days.
Natural and Pure Ingredients
- No Additives: Making popsicles means no artificial colors, flavors, food dyes, or preservatives. You know exactly what’s going into your treats.
- Customizable Sweetness: You can control the amount of sweetener, if any, making these popsicles as healthy as possible.
Cost-Effective
- Budget-Friendly: Fresh fruits in season are often inexpensive. Making popsicles at home can be much cheaper than buying premium, natural brands from the store.
- Less Waste: Utilize slightly overripe or abundant fruits, reducing food waste.
Family-Friendly Activity
- Fun for Kids: Involve your children in the process. They can help wash, cut, and layer the fruits, making it a fun and educational activity.
- Customizable Flavors: Let everyone create their own combinations. This can be a great way to introduce kids to new fruits and flavors.
What Kinds of Fruit Can You Put into Fresh Fruit Popsicles?
The sky is the limit for the fruits. I like to choose seasonal fruit for my popsicles. But if you make them during the winter, you can use frozen fruits.
Berries (The Berry Bunch)
- Strawberries: Sweet, juicy, and everyone’s favorite. They blend beautifully and add a lovely pink hue.
- Blueberries: Little bursts of flavor that turn your popsicles a gorgeous shade of purple.
- Raspberries: Tangy and vibrant, they’re perfect for a bit of zing.
- Blackberries: Deeply flavorful and oh-so-delicious.
Citrus Fruits (Zesty Delights)
- Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice or chunks add a sweet and tangy twist.
- Lemons: Add some lemon juice or thin slices for a refreshing kick.
- Limes: Perfect for a tropical vibe, especially with coconut water.
Stone Fruits (Summer Sweethearts)
- Peaches: Sweet and juicy, they blend into a smooth puree.
- Nectarines: Similar to peaches but with a slightly firmer texture.
- Cherries: Pit them first, and you’ve got a sweet, tart addition.
- Plums: Their deep color and flavor make a striking popsicle.
Tropical Fruits (Island Vibes)
- Mango: Creamy and sweet, mangoes are a tropical treat.
- Pineapple: Adds a juicy, tangy punch.
- Kiwi: Bright green and wonderfully tart.
- Papaya: Smooth and mildly sweet.
Melons (Juicy Giants)
- Watermelon: Super hydrating and subtly sweet.
- Cantaloupe: Melon with a mellow sweetness.
- Honeydew: Refreshing and lightly sweet.
Exotic Fruits (For the Adventurous)
- Dragon Fruit: Vibrant and mildly sweet, it’s an eye-catcher.
- Passion Fruit: Intensely tangy and flavorful.
- Starfruit: Unique shape and mild, citrus-like flavor.
Fun Combinations to Try
- Berry Blast: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Tropical Paradise: Mango, pineapple, and kiwi.
- Citrus Splash: Orange, lemon, and lime.
- Melon Medley: Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew.
- Exotic Escape: Dragon fruit, passion fruit, and starfruit.
Choosing the Right Popsicle Molds
- Silicone Molds: Easy to peel away and clean, ideal for creating creamy fruit popsicles with a clear, natural flavor.
- Classic Shapes: Traditional molds with flat sides and popsicle sticks are great for beginners and can be found at your local grocery store or online via affiliate links.
- DIY Options: Get creative with ice cube trays or small cups of water for unique shapes and sizes.
- Material Matters: Opt for BPA-free plastic or silicone molds for safety and easy cleaning.
- Size Considerations: Choose molds that match your desired portion size—standard molds typically hold around 4 ounces, but sizes vary.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for molds that are dishwasher safe or easy to hand wash.
- Extras: Consider molds with built-in drip guards, lids, or reusable sticks for added convenience.
Choosing the Best Juice for Homemade Fruit Popsicles
Freshly Squeezed
- Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty kick and helps brighten up flavors like berries or tropical fruits.
- Lime Juice: Offers a tangy burst that pairs well with mango, pineapple, or coconut flavors.
- Orange Juice: Provides a naturally sweet base that complements almost any fruit, from strawberries to peaches.
- Coconut Water: Not technically a juice, but it’s light, hydrating, and adds a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with tropical fruits.
- Pineapple Juice: Sweet and tangy, pineapple juice adds a tropical twist and helps create a creamier texture.
- Watermelon Juice: Refreshing and subtly sweet, watermelon juice is fantastic for a light and hydrating popsicle.
You can also add any clear juice, apple juice, or any fruit juice you like.
Storage
Once frozen solid, homemade fruit popsicles can be stored in their molds or transferred to airtight containers. They should be kept in the coldest part of your freezer to maintain their texture and flavors. When ready to enjoy, run warm water over the molds to release the popsicles easily.
Choosing the best juice for homemade fruit popsicles enhances natural flavors and creates a refreshing treat perfect for a hot summer day and hot summer months. Whether you prefer a citrusy tang or a mellow sweetness, there’s a juice out there to suit every taste bud. So, grab your favorite fruits and juice it up—your homemade popsicles will surely be a hit! 🍹🍇🍋
These healthy fruit popsicles with real, fresh fruit are great for hot summer days and summer parties to enjoy with your family and friends.
Feel free to share your favorite juice combinations or any unique twists you’ve added to your homemade fruit popsicles!
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Healthy Fruit Popsicles with Real, Fresh Fruit
Ingredients
- 2 cups Berries you choice of berries I used strawberries and blueberries
- 3 Peaches
- 3 Kiwi
- Sweetener optional- honey, maple syrup, monk fruit or stevia
- 2 tbsp Lime juice freshly squeezed
- Juice of your choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruits:Wash all the fruits thoroughly. Peel and slice the kiwi. Pit and slice the peaches. Hull the strawberries if using.
- Blend and Press the Fruits:Press the strawberry, peach, and kiwi slices against the sides and bottom of each mold.Press the fruit against the sides of the mold with a popsicle stick. (This will help you see the fruit better when the juice freezes.)Add as much fruit as possible to the mold, pressing it against the sides.Puree the peaches until smooth, adding water or juice if necessary. Pour the mixture into a bowl and set aside.Fill the molds with peach puree juice or the juice you choose, leaving about 1/4" of space at the top for the juice to expand when it freezes.
- Insert Popsicle Sticks:Insert the sticks into the molds. If your molds don't have slots for sticks, partially freeze the popsicles (about an hour) before inserting the sticks.
- Freeze:Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
- Unmold and Enjoy:To remove the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. Gently pull on the sticks to release the popsicles.