The Watermelon Popsicles You'll Make All Summer: 3 Ingredients, Zero Icy Disappointment
These 3-ingredient watermelon popsicles are the perfect summer treat. With a smooth, creamy texture and intense watermelon flavor, they are a healthier alternative to store-bought popsicles. No added sugar if your melon is sweet enough.
Equipment
- Blender
- Fine-Mesh Strainer
- Popsicle molds
- Popsicle sticks
- Funnel (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1/2 medium melon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prep the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into rough 1-inch cubes. Try to leave behind as many of the white seeds as you can. The strainer later will catch any you miss.
- Blend: Add the watermelon cubes, lime juice, maple syrup (if using), and salt to the blender. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth. The puree should look bright pink and almost frothy.
- Strain: Set a fine-mesh strainer over a large liquid measuring cup or bowl. Pour the puree through the strainer, using a spatula to gently stir and push it through. Discard the fibrous pulp left in the strainer.
- Pour: Carefully pour the strained puree into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch of headroom at the top. If your mold has a lid, attach it and insert the sticks. If not, freeze for about 1 hour until slushy, then insert the sticks.
- Freeze: Place the molds on a flat, level surface in the coldest part of your freezer. Freeze for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
- Unmold and serve: Run the outside of the mold under warm water for about 15 seconds. Gently wiggle the stick to release. Serve immediately or wrap individually and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Notes
For a creamier texture, replace 1/4 cup of watermelon puree with full-fat coconut milk. This adds a subtle tropical flavor and richer consistency. Always taste the puree before freezing—adjust sweetness or acidity as needed. Freezing dulls sweetness, so aim for slightly sweeter than you think you want. If using frozen watermelon, add 2 tablespoons less watermelon and an extra tablespoon of sweetener to compensate for extra water. These popsicles are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.