When the Arizona summer truly hits, there’s one frozen treat that brings instant joy and a wave of cool relief: the humble popsicle! Forget the store-bought varieties; making your own homemade popsicles is incredibly easy, allows you to control the ingredients, and opens up a world of flavor possibilities. Plus, it’s a fantastic, fun activity to do with the kids!

We believe that keeping cool should be delicious, and these three recipes are our absolute favorites for doing just that. They’re simple, vibrant, and packed with natural goodness (mostly!). Grab your popsicle molds, and let’s get freezing!

1. Sunshine Citrus & Berry Swirl Pops

These popsicles are like a burst of summer sunshine in every bite. The combination of tangy citrus and sweet berries is irresistible, and the swirl makes them visually stunning.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (or a mix of orange and grapefruit for tang)
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Optional: a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra zing
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, lightly mash or roughly chop the berries. If using frozen, let them thaw slightly first.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice and honey/maple syrup (if using). Stir until sweetener is dissolved.
  3. Carefully spoon some of the mashed berries into each popsicle mold, trying to get them to stick to the sides slightly for a “swirl” effect.
  4. Slowly pour the orange juice mixture into the molds, leaving a little space at the top. The juice will naturally swirl with the berries.
  5. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
  6. To remove, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.

2. Creamy Tropical Dream Pops

These popsicles are like a mini-vacation on a stick! Rich, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavors, they’re perfect for a refreshing treat.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight if possible for thicker cream)
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar (adjust to sweetness of fruit)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. If using chilled coconut milk, scoop out the thick cream from the top of the can. If not chilled, just use the whole can.
  2. Combine coconut milk (cream and liquid), diced mango, pineapple chunks, honey/agave, and vanilla extract in a blender.
  3. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  4. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top.
  5. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until completely solid.
  6. To remove, run molds under warm water for a few seconds.

3. Hydrating Watermelon Mint Pops

Simple, refreshing, and incredibly hydrating, these popsicles are pure summer goodness. The mint adds a wonderful, cooling zing!

• Ingredients:
  • 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
  • 10-12 fresh mint leaves
  • Juice of 1 lime (optional, for extra brightness)
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar if your watermelon isn’t super sweet
• Instructions:
  1. Place the cubed watermelon and mint leaves in a blender. Add lime juice and sweetener (if using).
  2. Blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or add more lime if desired.
  3. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any pulp or mint bits, ensuring a smooth popsicle. (This step is optional but recommended for a super smooth texture.)
  4. Pour the strained liquid into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top.
  5. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
  6. To remove, run molds under warm water for a few seconds.

Stock your freezer with these frosty delights, and you’ll always have a quick, easy, and delicious way to beat the heat this summer! Which one will you try first?