Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Blend Time: 5 minutes
- Freeze Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: About 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield
- Servings: 8 popsicles
- Makes: 8 standard popsicles
Difficulty Level
Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh strawberry pieces
- White chocolate chips
- Mini dark chocolate chips
- Crushed graham crackers
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries. Place them in a blender along with the lemon juice and blend until completely smooth.
If you prefer a smoother popsicle, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Combine
Pour the strawberry puree into the cream mixture and whisk until fully blended.
Fold in any optional add-ins if desired.
Step 4: Fill the Molds
Carefully pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing.
Insert popsicle sticks according to your mold’s instructions.
Step 5: Freeze
Freeze the popsicles for 6–8 hours, or until completely firm. Overnight freezing provides the best texture.
Step 6: Unmold
To remove the popsicles easily, run the outside of the molds under warm water for 15–20 seconds. Gently pull each popsicle from the mold and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Ice Cream Popsicles
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill the mixture before pouring it into the molds for faster freezing.
- Do not overfill the molds, as the mixture expands while freezing.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the strawberry flavor without making the popsicles tart.
- Heavy cream creates the creamiest texture, but half-and-half may be substituted for a lighter version.
- Freeze overnight for the firmest consistency.
Flavor Variations
These popsicles are easy to customize with different ingredients:
- Add blueberries for mixed berry popsicles.
- Blend in bananas for extra creaminess.
- Swirl strawberry jam through the mixture before freezing.
- Add crushed cookies for a cookies-and-cream twist.
- Mix in chopped fresh peaches for a fruity combination.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the frozen popsicles before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Ice Cream Popsicles pair perfectly with:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Lemon cookies
- Shortbread biscuits
- Chocolate brownies
- Summer picnics
- Backyard barbecues
- Birthday parties
- Poolside snacks
- Afternoon desserts
- Children’s celebrations
Storage
Store the popsicles in their molds or transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container after they are completely frozen.
Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
They stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before blending for the best texture.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Replace the heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat canned coconut milk or your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
Why are my popsicles icy?
Too much water or insufficient fat can create an icy texture. Using heavy cream helps produce a smoother, creamier popsicle.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. Adjust the sweetness to taste depending on the natural sweetness of your strawberries. Honey or maple syrup can also be used as alternatives.
How long do homemade popsicles last?
When stored properly in an airtight freezer container, they maintain their best quality for up to two months.
Nutrition Information (Per Popsicle)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 42mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
- Vitamin C: 35% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
- Potassium: 150mg