We’re skipping the ice cream truck and going straight for the ice pops this summer! Just remember, not all popsicles are created equal. Store-bought treats typically pack a significant amount of added sugar, artificial colors and preservatives. These nine homemade popsicles, however, nix the hard-to-pronounce ingredients and get their natural sweetness from nutritious fruit and honey. Plus, DIY popsicles require only a few ingredients, meaning they’re cheap and easy to make. You might get impatient waiting for your pops to freeze, but trust us: These suckers are worth the wait!
Healthy DIY Popsicles for Hot Summer Days
1. Fudge Paletas
Indulge in a guilt-free chocolate pop. These yummy bars taste just as good as the real thing, sans fat and sugar. The secret weapon for staying so creamy without the cream: Avocados. A hint of cocoa and espresso powder also pump up the flavor. Your new fave dessert, discovered. Recipe: McKel Hill, MS, RDN / Nutrition Stripped
2. Berry Pops
These striped berry pops aim to please, especially on a hot day. A dash of honey complements the creamy flavor of protein-packed Greek yogurt. Blueberries and raspberries are rich sources of heart-healthy antioxidants and minerals. Photo and Recipe: Ana / Fit Fun Delish
3. Mango Almond Popsicles
Simple, delicious and inexpensive — three of our must-haves in one pop. These good-for-you treats contain just almond milk, frozen mangos and a bit of sugar. The result: A slimmed-down dessert that will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth. Photo and recipe: Amy Atherton / Amy’s Healthy Baking
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4. Watermelon Frozen Yogurt Pops
Think smoothies on a stick. These pops blend protein-packed Greek yogurt, watermelon and stevia for a tart and tangy summer treat. High in vitamin C, watermelons are also a good source of the inflammation-fighting antioxidant, lycopene. Eat up! Photo and Recipe: Marla Meridith
5. Ginger-Peach Popsicles
Opposites attract in this refreshing blend of spicy ginger and sweet peach. Aromatic ginger is believed to sooth intestinal distress, reduce nausea and possibly ease arthritis. Ginger for the win! Photo and Recipe: Kiersten / Oh My Veggies
6. Cherry-Lime Popsicles
This sub-LIME-ly delish popsicle recipe requires only four antioxidant-packed ingredients. Bonus: Cherries are high in vitamin A and C, and might even help you sleep. Sounds about perfect for an after-dinner dessert to us. Photo and Recipe: Samantha Seeley / Sweet Remedy
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7. Healthy Fresh Fruit Popsicles
These super refreshing popsicles only have three ingredients: strawberries, blueberries and orange juice. But that doesn’t mean they skimp on taste. Sub in your favorite fruit (like kiwi or melon, if you prefer) or switch up the juice to maximize your go-to flavors. Photo and recipes: Iosune and Alberto / Simple Vegan Blog
8. Peanut Butter and Jelly Popsicles
Need to fuel up and cool down after a tough workout? This inventive frozen treat has eight grams of protein and three grams of fiber to replenish your energy. It’s got all the flavors of a PB&J sammie, without the carbs. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life By Daily Burn
9. Strawberry-Banana Popsicles
Ripe bananas and strawberries steal the show in this recipe. A great source of potassium, fiber and vitamin C, these fruit-filled pops are just what the doctor ordered — with a duo of flavors we’ve come to know and love. Photo and Recipe: Melissa Griffiths / Bless This Mess Please
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10. Raspberry Coconut Popsicles
When temperatures heat up, cool down with this antioxidant-packed and healthy fat-filled frozen snack. The raspberry and lime combo feels extra satisfying on warm days and the banana and coconut milk make it the perfect afternoon treat. Photo and recipe: Chelsea / Chelsea’s Messy Apron
11. Creamy Chocolate Fudgesicles
Craving chocolate? Indulge in these fudgesicles, which skip the high-fructose corn syrup you’ll often find in store-bought varieties. Plus, they kick up potassium and fiber with bananas. While these pops get their creaminess from full-fat coconut milk, you can slim down the recipe with low-fat milk or light coconut milk. Photo and Recipe: Katie / Chocolate Covered Katie
12. Boozy Mojito Popsicles
Cool down your cocktail by turning it into a 30-calorie pop! Packed with lime juice and club soda, these light and refreshing frozen treats will please party guests and dieting friends alike. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life By Daily Burn
Originally published July 2013. Updated September 3, 2016.