Times have changed (cue old-timey music). Back in the day, we stocked up on boxes of Fla-Vor-Ice freezer pops available in every fake flavor imaginable: orange, banana, root beer, grape and, of course, “red.” Now, there are freezer cases filled with all-fruit popsicles, sugar-free, organic, even some fruit and veggie blends. Still, there’s something to be said for making your own real-fruit frozen treats.
This recipe takes the flavors of a favorite cobbler (nectarine, blackberry and cinnamon) and throws in a little tropical kick with coconut milk. Use whatever sweetener you like – or none at all. You’re the boss! Make them at lunchtime, and they’ll be ready before the fireflies are out.
Nectarine and Blackberry Coco-Pops 6 servings
Inspired by a recipe originally published in Vibrant Food by Kimberley Hasselbrink 2 ripe nectarines, peeled, pitted and diced (about 1 cup)
1 cup blackberries
2 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 13.5-oz can full-fat coconut milk
Special equipment:
6 popsicle sticks
6 disposable cups or a popsicle mold
• In a small saucepan, combine the nectarines, blackberries, honey and cinnamon over medium heat. Stir to combine and cook until the fruit is very soft, about 5 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently crush the fruit into a lumpy sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the coconut milk. Let cool 5 to 10 minutes.
• Pour about ¾ cup of the fruit mixture into each cup or popsicle molds. Place a piece of plastic wrap tightly over the top of each cup or mold. Use a sharp knife to cut a tiny hole in the center of plastic and push a popsicle stick through into each cup or mold. Freeze at least 5 hours.
• To serve, run warm water over the outside of the cup or mold and gently slide the freezer pop out.
This article appears in Readers’ Choice 2015.