Get ready to experience pure, fruity refreshment with these Cherry Lime Ice Pops! This recipe is pure summer on a stick: bursting with sweet, jewel-toned cherry flavor and a bright twist of zesty lime. Whether you’re searching for a way to beat the heat, dreaming of a childhood favorite with a modern twist, or just looking for a healthy, homemade treat, these ice pops fit the bill. They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, naturally sweetened, and as pretty as they are delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
How to Make Cherry Lime Ice Pops
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
Start by tossing your pitted cherries, freshly squeezed lime juice, water, honey or agave syrup, and fragrant lime zest into a blender. Blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth—about 30 seconds should do it. Give it a taste and add a bit more honey or agave if you like things sweeter, or a touch more lime for extra zing.
Step 2: (Optional) Strain for Smoothness
If you prefer a silky texture for your Cherry Lime Ice Pops (some folks love a rustic, pulpy vibe, others want pure smoothness), pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. This removes any cherry skins or pulp, giving you a glowing, velvety base for your pops.
Step 3: Fill the Ice Pop Molds
Carefully pour your cherry-lime blend into ice pop molds, leaving just a smidge of space at the top to let the pops expand as they freeze. If you’re feeling playful or making these for a party, pop in some extra cherry halves for a polka dot effect!
Step 4: Add Sticks and Freeze
Insert the popsicle sticks into your molds, then set the whole tray in the freezer. These pops take about 4 to 6 hours to become fully solid, so plan ahead. For the creamiest texture, resist the urge to check them too early—overnight freezing is even better!
Step 5: Release and Enjoy
Ready to serve? Run a little warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. The Cherry Lime Ice Pops should slide out with ease, freshly frosted and ready for your first big bite.
How to Serve Cherry Lime Ice Pops
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Roll the tips of your Cherry Lime Ice Pops in extra lime zest or grated coconut for an added burst of color and flavor. You can also press a single cherry into the mold before freezing, creating a cute surprise in every pop.
Side Dishes
While these pops steal the spotlight on their own, they’re fantastic at any summer gathering alongside other finger foods—think fresh fruit salads, grilled corn on the cob, or a tangy cucumber salad. Hosting a backyard soirée? Set up a make-your-own ice pop bar and let friends customize their own creations!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Cherry Lime Ice Pops nestled in a bowl of crushed ice or stand them upright in a jar filled with lime slices for a colorful, festive display. For a playful twist, serve pops in cocktail glasses topped with a splash of sparkling water for a pop-tail that’s as fun as it is refreshing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, keep the Cherry Lime Ice Pops right in their molds or transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Place wax paper between the pops to prevent sticking.
Freezing
These ice pops love the freezer! Store them at the back of your freezer (where the temperature stays coldest) and they’ll stay fresh, flavorful, and frost-free for up to two months. That way, you’re always just seconds away from a bright, cherry-lime pick-me-up.
Reheating
Luckily, these treats don’t need reheating! Simply run warm water over the molds to loosen them just before eating. If your freezer runs super cold, you can also let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes to take the edge off.
FAQs
Can I use other sweeteners for Cherry Lime Ice Pops?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or simple syrup both work, though the flavor will subtly change. Feel free to experiment to match your taste or dietary preferences.
Can I make these without a popsicle mold?
Yes! Try using small paper cups or even sturdy reusable yogurt containers. Stick in wooden craft sticks or sturdy straws once the mixture is semi-frozen to keep them upright.
Will the texture change if I use frozen cherries?
Frozen cherries actually work beautifully here and may even blend more smoothly than fresh. Just let them thaw slightly before blending for the best consistency.
Can I add alcohol for adult Cherry Lime Ice Pops?
Definitely! A splash of cherry liqueur or even vodka adds an adult twist, just remember that alcohol can make the pops a little softer, so don’t overdo it—about 2 to 3 tablespoons per batch is perfect.
What if I don’t like tart popsicles?
No worries—just add more honey or agave syrup to sweeten things up! Taste as you go until you hit your personal sweet spot.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the bright, bold flavors of Cherry Lime Ice Pops—refreshing, nostalgic, and packed with real fruit. I hope you’ll give them a try and let them become a new favorite in your own summer dessert lineup. Gather your cherries and limes, and get ready for a frozen treat that will make your taste buds sing!
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Cherry Lime Ice Pops Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Yield: 6 ice pops 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Cool off this summer with these refreshing Cherry Lime Ice Pops. Made with fresh cherries, zesty lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, these homemade ice pops are a perfect treat for hot days.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the cherries, lime juice, water, honey, and lime zest. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving a little room at the top for expansion.
- Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4–6 hours or until completely solid.
- To release, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds.
Notes
- You can strain the mixture before pouring if you prefer a smoother texture.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of cherry liqueur before freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pop
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
