Popsicles That Pop

This is definitely the season for a nice icy treat and what better than a homemade Popsicle. This is one of summer's best foods. It's even better when you make your won. Like homemade ice cream you can vary the flavors and have fun with them.

What's a good Popsicle flavor. You can start with just everyday juices like grape and cranberry. These are always the best tastes and kids love them. For a more refreshing and tart flavor try Newman's Own lemonade or limeade for more of a tropical treat. You can also make your own if you want and regulate the sweetness or tartness to your liking. One of the more popular flavors now is watermelon. You just have to puree watermelon chunks and blend with a simple sugar syrup (basically white sugar boiled with water) and then pour into molds. You can also do the same with fresh strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. The flavor will be more intense though and with the strawberries and raspberries, you will have seeds.

There's a trend for more unusual Popsicles. You can try guava and papaya but remember to mix these with water or coconut milk. They may be too thick and will create a "sludgy" ice pop and that calls for experiments with thicknesses. Some foodies are adding fresh ginger and basil to their pops for a different , more intense spin. This again requires some experimenting and regulating. You don't want to have frozen pesto on a stick, after all.

Popsicles are a wonderful and fun treat to make. Experiment with different tastes and ingredients to create one to your liking. Then sit under the shadiest tree and enjoy!