3-Ingredient Popsicles Are Healthy + Refreshing Treats — Easy Recipe Preps in 5 Minutes

Having popsicles handy in your freezer means you can cool down in seconds when the hot weather is at its peak. While it's convenient to grab a box of popsicles from the freezer aisle, making them from scratch is much a healthier option. On top of this, you only need three ingredients to whip up homemade popsicles in just 5 minutes. Keep reading to learn how to prepare popsicles as a healthy and refreshing summertime treat!

The scoop on store-bought popsicles

Take a quick look at the ingredients list on a box of popsicles and you'll likely see high fructose corn syrup, sugar, artificial flavors and colored dyes. These ingredients give the popsicles their sugary flavor and eye-catching color. However, they also make commercial popsicles a treat you should indulge in every now and then. The good news: You don't have to settle for the store-bought kind since you can easily make them yourself.

Related: Are Baked Chips Healthier Than Fried? Only If They’re Homemade — Easy Recipe

Why you should make your own popsicles

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 immune-boosting vitamin C to boot. These ingredients, along with water, are all you need to make healthy and refreshing popsicles.

Related: Skip the Cough Suppressants — Pairing Honey With Lemon Offers More Effective Relief

An easy and healthy recipe for homemade popsicles

This recipe for 3-Ingredient Honey and Lemon Popsicles comes from 30seconds.com. A popsicle mold like Chuzy Chef's Popsicle Ice Mold Maker Set fits six popsicles — enough to make one batch of this recipe. Be sure to stash any leftover popsicles in your freezer to pull out whenever you're craving a frozen treat to beat the heat. (These Cottage Cheese Popsicles are another healthy option that delivers a nice dose of protein.)

3-Ingredient Honey and Lemon Popsicles

Ingredients:

• 3 cups water
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 5 Tbs. honey

Directions:

• Active: 5 mins
• Total time: 4 hrs, 5 mins
• Yield: 6 popsicles

1. Whisk all ingredients in pitcher or large glass measuring cup to combine. (Mix until honey is dissolved.)
2. Pour mixture into popsicle mold, stopping ½ inch before fill line. Place popsicle sticks or handles over each mold opening.
3. Freeze until solid, about 4 hours.
4. To serve, run warm water over molds 1 to 2 minutes to loosen popsicles. Gently slide each popsicle out and enjoy.

Bonus trick for extra flavorful popsicles

While the sweet and tart flavors of these popsicles are appetizing, you can customize the ingredients to your liking. Substitute freshly squeezed lime or orange juice for lemon to give the treats a citrus twist. You can also use another sweetener such as agave to save on calories. Additionally, fresh berries or mint can be added to the popsicle base for a boost of naturally sweetness. Your homemade popsicles will surely rival any store-bought variety!

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .