These Homemade Coconut Mango Popsicles are a tropical treat! Made with creamy coconut and sweet mango, they’re perfect for hot days when you need something refreshing.
It’s so easy to whip these up. Just blend everything, pour into molds, and freeze! I love serving them at summer parties—everyone always asks for seconds! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangos: Ripe mangos are the star here, bringing sweetness and flavor. If mangos aren’t available, peaches or nectarines can work as great substitutes. Just peel, dice, and follow the same steps!
Coconut Milk: I love using full-fat canned coconut milk for a rich texture. If you prefer something lighter, you can choose carton coconut milk or almond milk. Just remember, taste will vary slightly based on your choice.
Sweetener: Honey is my go-to for sweetness, but maple syrup is a fantastic alternative for a vegan option. Adjust the amount based on how sweet your mangoes are. Using stevia or agave syrup can work too!
Lime Juice: The lime juice adds a zesty kick. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Just be careful with the quantity; lemons are a bit more sour!
Vanilla Extract: This ingredient is optional, but I highly recommend it for an extra flavor boost. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use almond extract for a different twist!
How Do I Get a Smooth Mango Puree?
Creating a smooth mango puree is crucial for the texture of your popsicles. Here’s how to achieve it:
- First, combine diced mangos with water in your blender. Start with less water; you can always add more!
- Blend until smooth. If you want an ultra-smooth texture, run the puree through a fine mesh sieve with a spatula to push it through.
- Taste the puree to decide if you need more sweetness, and blend again to mix in any sweeteners.
This process ensures that your mango base is creamy and enhances the overall enjoyment of your popsicles!
How to Make Homemade Coconut Mango Popsicles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Popsicles:
- 2 ripe mangos, peeled and diced
- 1 cup coconut milk (canned or carton)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup water (for mango puree)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After preparing, you’ll need to freeze the popsicles for at least 4 to 6 hours until they are completely solid. Get ready to enjoy a refreshing treat on a hot day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Puree:
Start by placing the diced mangos and water in a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth. If you like a creamier texture, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits. Set the mango puree aside for later.
2. Sweeten the Mango Puree:
Give the mango puree a taste test! If you want it sweeter, add honey or maple syrup, depending on your preference. Blend it again to mix in the sweetness, then set it aside while you prepare the coconut mixture.
3. Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. You can sweeten this mixture too, just like the mango puree, as per your taste.
4. Layer the Mixtures:
Now it’s time to layer the popsicles! Grab your popsicle molds and pour a layer of the mango puree at the bottom. Follow this with a layer of the coconut mixture. Alternate the layers until the molds are nearly full, but don’t fill them to the top since the mixture will expand as it freezes.
5. Insert Sticks:
Insert the popsicle sticks into the molds. Make sure they are standing upright. If they’re wobbling, you can use small pieces of aluminum foil to help hold them in place while they freeze.
6. Freeze:
Place the filled molds in the freezer. Leave them there for at least 4-6 hours so they freeze solid. Try not to peek too much, as the temperature needs to stay cold!
7. Unmold and Serve:
Once frozen, it’s time to enjoy your popsicles! To release them, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. Then gently pull on the sticks to remove your delicious popsicles. Enjoy your homemade coconut mango popsicles on a sunny day!
Can I Use Fresh Mangoes Instead of Ripe Mangos?
Absolutely! Just make sure that the fresh mangoes are ripe for the best flavor. A ripe mango should be slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant smell. If they’re not quite ripe yet, you can leave them at room temperature for a few days until they soften.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use any non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly, and you might want to increase the sweetness to balance it out if your alternative milk is unsweetened.
How Long Can I Store the Popsicles?
Your homemade popsicles can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To maintain their best quality, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Popsicles?
Definitely! You can mix in or layer other fruits like pineapple, berries, or even a banana for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if the additional fruits are particularly tart!
