Indulge in a frozen delight with Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops! This treat combines fresh strawberries, creamy goodness, and crumbly shortcake for a delightful twist on a classic dessert. You'll love how simple it is to create these pops at home. In this easy guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from picking the perfect berries to serving them up beautifully. Get ready for a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: The combination of fresh strawberries and cream creates a refreshing and delicious treat that's perfect for hot days.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding other fruits or changing the type of cake for a unique twist.
- Fun Presentation: These ice pops are visually appealing and perfect for parties, adding a festive touch to any gathering.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients Overview
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
To start, use fresh strawberries. They give the best taste. Wash and hull the berries, then slice them. Toss the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. The sugar makes them sweet, while the lemon adds a nice zing. Let them sit for about ten minutes. This time helps the strawberries create a syrup.
Dairy Components
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Next, you need dairy ingredients. Heavy whipping cream is key for creaminess. Use an electric mixer to whip it until soft peaks form. This should take about two to three minutes. Then, fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. This step adds sweetness and flavor. Be gentle so the cream stays light and fluffy.
Additional Elements
- 1 cup crumbled shortcake
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (for optional coating)
Finally, add the fun stuff! Crumbled shortcake gives texture. You can use store-bought or homemade. Gently mix this into the cream. If you like, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top of the molds. This adds a tasty crunch and looks great. Now, you're ready to create your pops!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Strawberries
Start by slicing 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Place them in a medium bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Toss the strawberries gently until coated. Let them rest for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps the strawberries make a yummy syrup.
Whipping the Cream
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Beat it on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. Stop when you see soft peaks. Now, fold in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix it carefully, so it stays light and fluffy.
Combining Ingredients
Add the macerated strawberries with all their juices to the whipped cream. Use a spatula to fold them in gently. Make sure the strawberries are evenly mixed. Next, stir in 1 cup of crumbled shortcake. Mix it thoroughly but gently to keep the airiness.
Molding the Pops
Spoon the mixture into ice pop molds. Leave a small gap at the top for expansion during freezing. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top of each mold.
Freezing Process
Insert sticks into the molds and make sure they are centered. Place the molds in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until solid. To ensure the pops freeze well, avoid opening the freezer too often during this time.
Serving the Pops
When you’re ready to eat, run warm water over the molds for a few seconds. This helps loosen the pops. Twist and pull gently to remove them. For a pretty display, serve the pops on a platter with fresh strawberries and mint leaves.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid over-mixing. When you whip the cream, stop as soon as soft peaks form. If you mix too long, the cream may become grainy. After this, carefully fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. This keeps the mixture light and fluffy.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add fun flavors to your pops. Try mixing in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. These fruits pair well with strawberries. You can also use almond or coconut extract for a twist. If your mix tastes too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice. This will balance the flavors.
Handling and Storage
For the best molds, choose silicone or plastic ones. They help release the pops easily. To keep your pops from floating when freezing, fill the molds to the top. Leave a little space for expansion. This way, your pops will freeze evenly and stay put.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for berries that are bright red and firm for optimal results.
- Whip the Cream Properly: Ensure you whip the cream to soft peaks for a light and airy texture. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can lead to a grainy texture.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to get creative with your pops! Use crushed nuts, cookie crumbs, or even toasted coconut as a coating for added flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: For a fun twist, try adding a splash of almond extract or a different fruit puree for variety in your ice cream pops.
Variations
Vegan Strawberry Shortcake Pops
You can easily make vegan strawberry shortcake pops. Start by swapping heavy cream with coconut cream. It gives a rich taste and creamy texture. Use plant-based condensed milk instead of regular. This keeps the pops sweet and smooth. The flavor stays bright and fresh, just like the classic recipe.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free treat, choose gluten-free shortcake. You can find these in stores or make your own. Use gluten-free flour blends for the best results. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty pops without worry.
Unique Flavor Additions
Want to mix things up? Add chocolate or mint for a fun twist. You can also blend in other fruit flavors. Try bananas or blueberries for a new taste adventure. Just keep the strawberry base and add your favorites. This makes your pops unique and exciting!
Storage Info
Freezing and Shelf Life
To keep your strawberry shortcake ice cream pops fresh, store them in airtight containers. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps flavors intact. Wrap each pop in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for extra protection.
These pops can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. After that, they may lose texture and flavor.
Thawing Tips
When you're ready to enjoy your pops, the best way to thaw them is to run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. This gentle heat helps release the pops without breaking them.
If your pops freeze too hard, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving. This short wait makes them easier to bite into while keeping the creamy texture.
FAQs
How to make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops from scratch?
To make these pops, follow these steps:
1. Mix 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Fold in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add the strawberry mixture to the cream and gently fold in.
5. Stir in 1 cup of crumbled shortcake.
6. Spoon the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving some space at the top.
7. Insert sticks and freeze for 4 to 6 hours. Enjoy!
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them first and drain excess juice. This will keep your pops from becoming too watery.
Where can I buy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops?
You can find store-bought versions at many grocery stores. Look in the frozen dessert section. Brands like Popsicle and Häagen-Dazs offer similar options.
How do I prevent my pops from sticking to the mold?
To prevent sticking, lightly coat the molds with cooking spray before adding the mixture. When ready, run warm water over the molds for a few seconds to help release the pops.
What are the nutritional facts for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops?
Each pop has about 200 calories, 10g of fat, 28g of carbs, and 4g of protein. Adjust the ingredients for healthier options if needed.
In this blog post, I shared a fun recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Pops. We explored fresh ingredients, combining techniques, and tips for perfect texture. Remember to experiment with flavors and variations to make each batch unique. Your pops can be vegan or gluten-free, ensuring everyone enjoys them. Proper storage and handling keep them fresh longer. Making and serving these pops is simple yet satisfying. Dive into this treat, and create your own delicious memories with friends and family. Enjoy every bite of your sweet, creamy creation!
