Need a Guilt-Free Summer Treat? Whip Up These Honey and Lemon Popsicles
My freezer is stocked with popsicles this time of the year. There’s nothing better when I’m craving a refreshing frozen treat. But while it’s convenient to grab a box of popsicles in the grocery store freezer aisle, making them from scratch is much a healthier option. Try this quick and simple three-ingredient recipe for homemade honey and lemon popsicles.
Why Homemade Popsicles Beat Store-Bought Popsicles
Take a quick look at the ingredients list on a box of popsicles (also called ice pops) and you’ll probably see high fructose corn syrup, sugar, artificial flavors, and colored dyes. These unhealthy ingredients make store-bought popsicles a nice treat to indulge in every now and then — but not great for regular consumption.
Making popsicles at home puts you in control of the ingredients. You won’t be consuming any added sugar or high fructose corn syrup, which are associated with increased inflammation and weight gain.
A natural sweetener like honey is the perfect sugar swap because it’s packed with antioxidants that help boost gut health and reduce cholesterol. Balance the honey’s sweetness by adding fresh lemon juice. It will give your popsicles a citrusy zing and deliver a dose of vitamin C to boot.
How To Make Honey and Lemon Popsicles
This recipe for honey and lemon popsicles from 30seconds.com requires just three ingredients: water, honey, and lemon juice. A popsicle mold like Chuzy Chef Popsicle Ice Mold Maker Set (Buy from Walmart, $13.99) fits six popsicles – enough to make one batch of this recipe.
Ingredients (Makes about 6 popsicles):
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons honey
Directions:
- Whisk all ingredients in pitcher or large glass measuring cup to combine. (Mix until honey is dissolved.)
- Pour mixture into popsicle mold, stopping 1/2 inch before fill line. Place popsicle sticks or handles over each mold opening.
- Freeze until solid, about 4 hours.
- To serve, run warm water over molds 1 to 2 minutes to loosen popsicles. Gently slide each popsicle out and enjoy.
These sweet frozen treats are the ideal guilt-free summertime snack. I’m definitely whipping up a few batches to stash in my freezer and serve at upcoming BBQs.
