Orange Creamsicle Popsicles

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Indulge in the delightful taste of summer with these refreshing Orange Creamsicle Popsicles! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of orange and the creamy goodness of Greek yogurt, these frozen treats are a perfect way to beat the heat and satisfy your sweet cravings. Made with just a handful of simple and wholesome ingredients, these popsicles are not only incredibly easy to whip up but also a healthier alternative to store-bought options. So, grab your blender and let's get started on creating these mouthwatering delights that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every blissful bite.

Orange Creamsicle popsicles on a marble tray

Orange popsicles

When summer approaches, the scorching heat calls for refreshing ways to cool down.

Last year, I saw a Facebook post by Sarah, the blogger of Live Eat Learn. She offered to help and test a popsicle recipe for a popsicles themed book she is writing. Of course I joined immediately, I like testing recipes and connecting with other food bloggers. It took a year and the book is now available to buy, check it out here!

To help promote the book, Sarah allowed me to share one recipe with my readers and here it is!

The book is full of heavenly and inspiring recipes to try, and I chose to share the Orange Creamsicle Popsicles recipe. Some of the recipes are very unique and others contain alcohol, but I think I chose one that is a perfect fit for many people, I mean, who doesn’t like oranges?

How to make orange creamsicle

To make orange creamsicle popsicles start by combining all the ingredients - orange juice, banana, plain Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and orange zest - in a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Next, pour the mixture into popsicle molds, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing. Insert popsicle sticks into each mold and freeze them for at least 4 hours until they become solid. If the mixture is too liquid for the sticks to stand straight up, let it freeze for about 1 hour before inserting the sticks. When ready to enjoy, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen the popsicles, then gently remove them from the molds. Finally, savor the delicious homemade orange creamsicle popsicles and relish their refreshing taste on a sunny day!

The recipe calls for orange juice which you can find all year around, but also orange zest that might be not available if it’s not orange season. You can replace the orange zest with lemon zest or just omit it completely. The rest of the ingredients are very convenient and I am sure you have them in your kitchen.

For the molds, I used silicone molds. If you don’t have any molds for the popsicles, simply use cups or pour the batter to a loaf tin and add sticks, after it freezes, just cut out the "loaf" to single popsicles.

What is the difference between a Dreamsicle and Creamsicle?

The terms "Dreamsicle" and "Creamsicle" are often used interchangeably, but they do have slight differences in their origin and ingredients.

A Dreamsicle typically refers to a type of frozen treat, like an ice cream bar or popsicle, that consists of a vanilla ice cream center coated with an outer layer of orange-flavored sherbet. The name "Dreamsicle" is a brand name used by the Popsicle company, which is a popular frozen treats brand.

On the other hand, a Creamsicle also refers to a similar frozen dessert but is more generically used. Like a Dreamsicle, it typically consists of a vanilla ice cream center covered with an outer layer of flavored, creamy ice, often orange. The term "Creamsicle" is sometimes used to refer to similar frozen treats made by other brands or homemade versions.

In summary, the main difference between Dreamsicle and Creamsicle is that Dreamsicle is a specific brand name by Popsicle, while Creamsicle is a more general term used to describe similar frozen treats made by various brands or homemade versions. The core concept of both treats remains the same – a combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and fruity flavored ice.

Helpful tips to ensure your orange creamsicle popsicles turn out perfect

Use Fresh Orange Juice

For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice rather than store-bought. The natural sweetness and tanginess of fresh oranges will elevate the taste of your popsicles.

Ripe Banana

Choose a ripe banana with brown speckles on the skin. It will not only add sweetness but also enhance the creamy texture of the popsicles.

Greek Yogurt

Use plain Greek yogurt with no added flavors or sweeteners. Its thick and creamy consistency will give the popsicles a luxurious texture.

Adjust Sweetness

Taste the mixture before pouring it into the molds and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more honey.

Zest Wisely

When zesting the orange, be cautious not to include the bitter white pith, as it can affect the overall flavor of the popsicles.

Blend Until Smooth

Ensure all ingredients are blended thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy mixture. You don't want any lumps or chunks in your popsicles.

Popsicle Molds

nvest in good-quality popsicle molds that are easy to use and have sturdy sticks. Silicon molds are great as they allow for easy removal.

Leave Room for Expansion

Leave a little space at the top of the molds for the popsicles to expand as they freeze.

Stabilize Sticks

If the mixture is too liquid for the sticks to stand straight up, freeze the molds for about an hour, then insert the sticks to help them stay in place.

Freeze Time

For the best texture, freeze the popsicles for at least 4 hours or until they are completely firm.

Loosen Popsicles

Before removing the popsicles from the molds, run the mold under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them up, making them easier to remove.

Customize

Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to your preferences. You can add other fruits, like strawberries or peaches, or even mix in some mini chocolate chips for added indulgence.

FAQS

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for oranges, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like tangerines, mandarins, or even a combination of different citrus flavors to create your own unique twist on the classic creamsicle.

Can I make these popsicles dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make these popsicles dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut yogurt or almond yogurt, instead of Greek yogurt. This substitution will still give you a creamy texture without the dairy.

How long do these popsicles last in the freezer?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these popsicles can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within the first month.

Can I add mix-ins to the popsicles?

Absolutely! Get creative and add mix-ins like chopped fruits, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of fruit puree to enhance the popsicles' flavors and textures.

My popsicles are difficult to remove from the molds. Any tips?

f you're having trouble removing the popsicles from the molds, try running the mold under warm water for a few seconds. This will help loosen the popsicles and make them easier to slide out of the molds.

Can I use frozen orange juice instead of fresh?

While fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen orange juice concentrate. Just make sure to follow the package instructions and dilute it properly before adding it to the recipe.

How can I make the popsicles less icy?

To make the popsicles less icy, you can increase the proportion of Greek yogurt in the recipe. The higher fat content in the yogurt will result in a creamier texture. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch or guar gum to help prevent ice crystals from forming.

Can kids help with making these popsicles?

Absolutely! This recipe is a great opportunity to get kids involved in the kitchen. They can assist with blending the ingredients, pouring the mixture into the molds, and inserting the popsicle sticks.

Are these popsicles a healthy treat option?

Compared to many store-bought popsicles that are loaded with artificial flavors and sugars, these homemade orange creamsicle popsicles are a healthier alternative. They contain real fruit and Greek yogurt, providing vitamins and probiotics, and you have control over the sweeteners used. However, like all treats, it's best to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Other recipes to try:

For other delicious summer “cooling" recipes, check out my vegan ice cream recipe or my gin cucumber cocktail recipe. Both are sure to kill the heat and are new, tasty recipes you just have to try!

Recipe yields about 2 cups, 8 pops of 2oz

Make these orange popsicles today!

Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering, seeking a delightful dessert, or simply craving a tasty pick-me-up, these Orange Creamsicle Popsicles will transport you to a sun-kissed paradise with every lick. So, why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to a burst of sunshine in every bite and savor the joy of creating something truly delectable. Embrace the season with this delightful recipe and let the flavors of summer take center stage in your kitchen!