Strawberry and Cream Popsicles are a delightful and refreshing treat that perfectly combines the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries with the rich, smooth taste of cream. These homemade popsicles are a fantastic way to cool down on a hot summer day and are sure to be a hit with both children and adults. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they offer a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought frozen treats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture
- Blend Strawberries: Begin by placing the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. The lemon juice helps to enhance the strawberry flavor while also preventing the fruit from browning.
- Strain (Optional): For an ultra-smooth texture, you can strain the strawberry puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds. This step is optional but recommended if you prefer a smoother consistency in your popsicles.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and creamy base that perfectly complements the fruity strawberry puree.
Step 3: Assemble the Popsicles
- Layer the Mixtures: To create beautifully layered popsicles, alternate pouring the strawberry puree and the cream mixture into popsicle molds. Start with a layer of strawberry puree, followed by a layer of the cream mixture, and continue this pattern until the molds are filled. For a marbled effect, use a skewer or a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
- Insert Sticks: Place the lids on the popsicle molds and insert the sticks into the center of each mold. Ensure the sticks are properly positioned so that they will remain in place as the popsicles freeze.
Step 4: Freeze the Popsicles
- Freeze: Place the popsicle molds in the freezer and allow them to freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the popsicles are completely solid. For best results, it’s ideal to freeze them overnight.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from Molds: To easily remove the popsicles from the molds, run the outside of the molds under warm water for a few seconds. This helps to loosen the popsicles, making them easier to pull out without breaking.
- Enjoy: Serve the strawberry and cream popsicles immediately. They make a perfect refreshing treat for hot days or any time you crave a sweet, cold dessert.
Cooking Notes
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute the strawberries with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, or peaches to create different flavor combinations.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Depending on the natural sweetness of your fruit, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the strawberry puree. Taste the mixture before freezing and add more sugar if needed.
- Storage: Store the popsicles in the freezer in an airtight container or individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 weeks to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Variations
Dairy-Free Version:
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk. The coconut milk, in particular, adds a delicious tropical twist to the popsicles.
Yogurt Addition:
- Replace the sweetened condensed milk with Greek yogurt to add a tangy flavor and an extra dose of creaminess to the popsicles. Greek yogurt also increases the protein content, making the popsicles a more nutritious snack.
Chocolate Dip:
- For an indulgent treat, dip the frozen popsicles in melted chocolate and return them to the freezer for a few minutes until the chocolate hardens. This adds a delightful chocolate shell that pairs wonderfully with the fruity and creamy layers.
Tips for Perfect Popsicles
- Even Layering: To achieve distinct layers, partially freeze each layer before adding the next. This helps to prevent the layers from blending together too much.
- Smooth Texture: Straining the strawberry puree removes the seeds, resulting in a smoother texture for your popsicles.
- Easy Removal: Running the molds under warm water briefly makes it easier to remove the popsicles without damaging their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry and Cream Popsicles are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve the popsicles with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing and healthy dessert.
- As a Party Treat: These popsicles make a great addition to summer parties and barbecues. Arrange them on a platter for a colorful and inviting presentation.
- With a Drizzle: For added decadence, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the popsicles just before serving.
Strawberry and Cream Popsicles are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With their refreshing taste and creamy texture, they are perfect for cooling down on hot days. Whether you’re making them for a family treat, a summer party, or just to satisfy a craving, these popsicles are sure to please. Enjoy experimenting with different fruits and flavors to create your own unique versions of this classic frozen dessert. Savor the simple pleasure of homemade popsicles and make the most of the summer season with this delicious recipe.
Enjoy your Strawberry and Cream Popsicles!