When the sun is blazing and the kids are running wild, there’s one magical phrase that can instantly bring smiles and a moment of blissful quiet: “Who wants an ice pop?” These frozen treats aren’t just a tasty way to cool down; they’re a quintessential part of childhood summers. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best ice pops for kids that are both delicious and perhaps a little bit healthier?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork to help you navigate the freezer aisle (and your kitchen) to find the perfect chilly companions for your little ones. Whether you’re looking for classic, ready-to-eat freezer pops or wanting to get creative with homemade concoctions using the right molds and accessories, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the top contenders that will make this summer extra special!
Our Top Picks for the Best Ice Pops for Kids
Let’s dive into our curated list of the best ice pops for kids, including some fantastic tools to make your own!
1. Popsicle Cookbook: Healthy and Easy Ice Pop Recipes for…
Sometimes, the best ice pops for kids are the ones you make yourself! This cookbook is a fantastic resource for parents who want to control ingredients and get creative in the kitchen. It’s packed with simple, healthy recipes that turn fresh fruits and veggies into delightful frozen treats your kids will actually beg for. Say goodbye to artificial colors and excessive sugar, and hello to homemade goodness!
- A treasure trove of healthy, easy-to-follow ice pop recipes.
- Focuses on natural ingredients and reduced sugar options.
- Great for dietary restrictions or picky eaters.
- Encourages family kitchen time.
Pros:
– Full control over ingredients.
– Promotes healthier snacking.
– Wide variety of creative flavor combinations.
– Cost-effective in the long run.
Cons:
– Requires effort and prep time.
– You’ll need molds or bags separately.
User Impressions: Parents absolutely love the inspiration this cookbook provides, noting how it transformed their approach to summer treats. Many reported their kids enjoying the homemade pops even more than store-bought ones.
2. Otter Pops Freezer Bars, Ice Pops, Original Flavors (80ct)
You can’t talk about the best ice pops for kids without mentioning the classic Otter Pops! These iconic freezer bars have been a staple for generations, offering a burst of fruity flavor in every frozen stick. With 80 count in one pack, you’ll be well-stocked for those endless summer days. They’re incredibly easy to prepare – just freeze, snip, and enjoy!
- 80-count pack of classic, original flavored ice pops.
- Fat-free and gluten-free for guilt-free enjoyment.
- Features iconic Otter characters and their zippy flavors like Strawberry Short Kook and Louie Bloo Raspberry.
- Simply freeze and eat – ultimate convenience.
Pros:
– Large quantity, great for parties or stocking up.
– Classic, beloved flavors kids adore.
– Fat-free and gluten-free.
– Super easy to serve.
Cons:
– Can be messy for very young children.
– Contains artificial flavors and colors.
User Impressions: Customers praise Otter Pops for their nostalgic appeal and consistent deliciousness. They’re a go-to for many families looking for a quick and easy summer refreshment that kids always love.
3. 6 Pack Reusable Popsicles Frozen Bags Ice Pop Stick…
For those who love DIY but prefer a less rigid mold, these reusable popsicle bags are a game-changer. They’re perfect for custom-blended smoothies, yogurt, or juice pops, and their clever design prevents drips and keeps little hands from freezing. Plus, they’re customizable, making them fun for kids to decorate their own unique treats!
- 6 reusable popsicle bags designed to prevent drips and keep hands warm.
- Suitable size (6.92″ L x 2.63″ W) for most standard ice pops.
- Customizable design for personalized fun.
- Made from high-quality, washable, and durable material.
- Easy to use and portable for on-the-go snacking.
Pros:
– Mess-free design minimizes sticky hands and clothes.
– Reusable, eco-friendly, and economical.
– Great for making personalized, healthy homemade treats.
– Portable for picnics, beach, or school.
Cons:
– Requires careful washing for reuse.
– Filling can be a bit tricky without a funnel (though often included in similar sets).
User Impressions: Users appreciate the convenience and environmental benefits of these reusable bags. They’re a hit for parents wanting to make their own frozen snacks without the mess of traditional molds.
4. Push Pop Freezer Pops – Ice Popsicles Frozen, Individually…
Remember Push Pop candies? Now imagine them as delicious freezer pops! These individually wrapped ice pops bring that classic candy fun to a frozen treat. With an assortment of fruity flavors like Strawberry, Watermelon, and Blue Raspberry, they’re perfect for parties, goodie bags, or just a fun way to cool down. Kids will love the familiar Push Pop mechanism for eating their ice pop.
- 48 individually wrapped fruit-flavored freezer pops.
- Features classic Push Pop candy flavors.
- Easy to freeze and fun to eat – just push up the popsicle.
- Variety of 6 vibrant flavors including Strawberry, Watermelon, and Grape.
- Great for party favors, summer snacks, and goodie bags.
Pros:
– Familiar Push Pop brand appeal to kids.
– Individually wrapped for hygiene and portion control.
– Fun and interactive way to eat a popsicle.
– Large pack size for events.
Cons:
– Contain artificial flavors and colors.
– Can be a bit sticky if not eaten carefully.
User Impressions: Families love these for their playful twist on a classic treat. They’re especially popular for school events and birthday parties, where the Push Pop brand adds an extra layer of excitement.
5. AIERSA 8pcs Popsicle Holders and Ice Pop Sleeves Set for…
Preventing sticky hands and melted messes is key when it comes to the best ice pops for kids. This set provides both silicone holders and neoprene sleeves, offering a dual layer of protection and comfort. The silicone holders securely grip the popsicle and catch drips, while the sleeves keep little hands warm from the chill. It’s a brilliant solution for mess-free frozen fun!
- Set includes 4 silicone popsicle holders and 4 neoprene ice pop sleeves.
- Silicone holders feature a deep slot and base to catch drips and broken pieces, with a built-in straw for melted ice cream.
- Neoprene sleeves keep hands warm and clean, preventing freezing fingers.
- Both components are reusable and made from high-quality, food-grade materials.
- Upgraded design with deeper slots and elongated grips for small hands.
Pros:
– Excellent for preventing drips and mess.
– Keeps hands from getting cold.
– Reusable and durable.
– Silicone holders can catch and allow kids to drink melted portions.
Cons:
– Adds an extra step (putting the popsicle into the holder/sleeve).
– Silicone holders might not fit all oddly shaped homemade pops.
User Impressions: Parents rave about how these holders and sleeves transform the ice pop experience, significantly reducing mess and making them ideal for younger children. The reusability is a big plus for eco-conscious families.
6. Lieber’s Italian Ice Freeze Pops – Berry & Cherry Mix…
For a different kind of frozen treat, Lieber’s Italian Ice Freeze Pops bring the classic, refreshing taste of Italian ice in a convenient freezer pop format. Made with real fruit juice and coming in a delightful berry and cherry mix, these are a fantastic fat-free and gluten-free option. Just freeze and serve for an authentic Italian ice experience anytime, anywhere.
- 40-count pack of Italian ice freeze pops in berry and cherry flavors (Strawberry, Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Berry Lemonade).
- Made with real fruit juice.
- Fat-free, gluten-free, and only 60 calories per pop.
- Mess-free pop tubes; simply freeze, snip, and enjoy.
- Perfect for all ages and occasions.
Pros:
– Authentic Italian ice taste.
– Made with real fruit juice.
– Healthier option: fat-free, gluten-free, low calorie.
– Convenient, ready-to-freeze individual tubes.
Cons:
– Texture might be different than traditional ice pops (more like shaved ice).
– Specific flavor mix might not appeal to everyone.
User Impressions: Customers love the refreshing and authentic taste of these Italian ice pops, often noting them as a healthier alternative to other sugary treats. They’re especially popular during hot weather for a quick cool-down.
7. Otter Pops, Giant Original 5.5oz, 27 Ice Pops, Six Zippy…
If your kids can’t get enough of Otter Pops, then the Giant Original size is exactly what you need! These larger versions offer even more of the beloved classic flavors and characters, ensuring a longer-lasting, refreshing experience. Just like their smaller counterparts, they’re fat-free and gluten-free, making them a fantastic, guilt-free frozen treat option for those scorching summer afternoons.
- 27-count pack of giant 5.5oz Otter Pops.
- Features six zippy flavors and iconic Otter characters.
- Fat-free and gluten-free.
- Easy “freeze & eat” preparation.
- Larger size for extended enjoyment.
Pros:
– Larger size provides more refreshing goodness.
– Classic, kid-favorite flavors.
– Fat-free and gluten-free.
– Simple and convenient summer treat.
Cons:
– Still contains artificial flavors and colors.
– Larger size might be too much for very small children, leading to more mess.
User Impressions: Fans of the original Otter Pops appreciate the “giant” size for those extra hot days or when kids want a longer-lasting treat. They remain a top choice for their dependable flavor and ease of use.
8. JBYAMUS Silicone Popsicle Molds, Ice Pop Molds, Storage…
For parents who love to get creative with homemade treats, these JBYAMUS Silicone Popsicle Molds are a fantastic investment. Made from food-grade silicone, they’re not only safe but also incredibly easy to use, clean, and release your frozen creations. The vibrant, colorful lids and sticks add an extra layer of fun, making them perfect for crafting personalized, healthy ice cream and fruit juice pops.
- Made from high-quality, food-grade, BPA-free silicone.
- Temperature range from -40 to 446F, safe for oven and fridge.
- Easy to release and clean, non-stick and dishwasher safe.
- Creative design with 7 colors of plastic lids for colorful ice pops.
- Multifunctional for making mini ice cream, juice cubes, jelly, and more.
Pros:
– Durable and safe silicone material.
– Easy to pop out finished popsicles.
– Reusable, eco-friendly, and easy to clean.
– Allows for endless creativity with homemade recipes.
Cons:
– Can take up more freezer space than bag-style molds.
– Small kids need supervision due to separate lids and sticks.
User Impressions: Users rave about the ease of use and flexibility of these silicone molds. They particularly love how simple it is to remove the frozen pops and how durable the molds are for repeated use.
9. Frozip 125 Disposable Ice Popsicle Mold Bags| BPA Free…
If convenience is your top priority for homemade frozen treats, Frozip’s disposable ice popsicle mold bags are your answer. This generous pack of 125 BPA-free bags, along with a funnel, makes preparing healthy, on-the-go snacks incredibly easy and mess-free. Just fill with your favorite smoothie, juice, or yogurt, zip seal, freeze, and you’re good to go – no sticky hands, no freezer mess!
- 125 disposable, BPA-free, and Phthalates-free popsicle bags.
- USDA Certified Food Grade and Freezer Product.
- Zip seal closure prevents spilling and mess.
- Includes a funnel for easy pouring.
- Perfect for healthy, homemade, on-the-go snacks.
Pros:
– Ultimate convenience – no washing required.
– Great for large batches or parties.
– Completely mess-free with zip seal.
– Safe and food-grade materials.
Cons:
– Disposable, so less eco-friendly than reusable options.
– Requires a bit of patience when filling many bags.
User Impressions: Customers absolutely love the sheer volume and convenience these bags offer for preparing healthy, homemade snacks. The included funnel is a huge plus, making the filling process a breeze for busy parents.
10. Tovolo Stackable Popsicle Molds with Sticks, 4-Pack,…
Add a touch of magic to your freezer with these adorable Tovolo Stackable Unicorn Popsicle Molds! Designed specifically for little hands, these molds feature built-in drip guards and easy-grip handles for a mess-free experience. The stackable design is a genius space-saver in the freezer, and the BPA-free silicone ensures safe, customizable treats. Create healthy, mystical frozen snacks that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
- 4-pack of unicorn-shaped popsicle molds with sticks.
- Built-in drip guards and easy-grip handles for mess-free eating.
- Clever stackable design saves freezer space.
- Made from premium BPA-free silicone.
- Allows for customizable, allergen-friendly, or vitamin-packed treats.
Pros:
– Cute and fun unicorn design appeals to kids.
– Excellent drip protection and easy-grip handles.
– Stackable design is great for small freezers.
– Durable, food-grade silicone for safe, repeated use.
Cons:
– Only 4 molds, so might need multiple sets for larger families.
– Can be a bit trickier to clean intricate mold shapes.
User Impressions: Parents and kids alike adore these unicorn molds! The built-in drip guards are consistently highlighted as a fantastic feature, and the stackable design is a winner for anyone with limited freezer space.
Conclusion
Whether you’re reaching for a nostalgic classic or getting creative in the kitchen, finding the best ice pops for kids is all about striking that balance between fun, flavor, and convenience. From the iconic Otter Pops and Push Pop Freezer Pops that bring instant joy, to the versatile molds and bags that empower you to craft your own healthy masterpieces, there’s a perfect frozen treat for every family.
So, go ahead, stock up your freezer or gather your ingredients. Summer days are calling, and with these fantastic options, you’re all set to make them refreshingly memorable!
FAQ Section: All Your Ice Pop Questions Answered!
Q1: Are store-bought ice pops generally healthy for kids?
A1: Many traditional store-bought ice pops can be high in sugar and artificial colors/flavors. However, there are healthier options available that are fat-free, gluten-free, or made with real fruit juice. Always check the nutrition label for ingredients and sugar content.
Q2: What are some tips for making healthy homemade ice pops?
A2: Use real fruit (pureed or chopped), 100% fruit juice, yogurt, or even vegetable purees (like spinach or carrots blended with fruit). You can sweeten naturally with a touch of honey or maple syrup, or rely solely on the sweetness of ripe fruit. Adding a bit of coconut water can also enhance hydration.
Q3: How can I prevent messy drips when kids eat ice pops?
A3: Several products can help! Silicone popsicle holders (like the AIERSA set) catch drips effectively, while neoprene sleeves protect hands from both cold and mess. For traditional stick pops, you can also use cupcake liners at the base of the stick.
Q4: Can I make sugar-free ice pops for kids with dietary restrictions?
A4: Absolutely! Use sugar-free juices, naturally sweet fruits, or approved sugar substitutes. Recipes in cookbooks like “Popsicle Cookbook” often provide great sugar-free or low-sugar options, allowing you to cater to specific dietary needs.
Q5: What’s the difference between ice pop molds and freezer bags?
A5: Ice pop molds are typically rigid (silicone or plastic) and come with reusable sticks, creating a classic popsicle shape. Freezer bags are flexible, disposable or reusable pouches that you fill and freeze, often resulting in a tube-like shape. Molds are great for presentation, while bags are often more convenient for on-the-go snacking and can save freezer space.
Q6: How long do homemade ice pops take to freeze?
A6: The freezing time for homemade ice pops typically ranges from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the ingredients (water-based freezes faster than creamy/yogurt-based), the size of the mold, and the temperature of your freezer. It’s often best to prepare them the night before.
Q7: Are there any environmentally friendly options for ice pop making?
A7: Yes! Reusable silicone molds (like JBYAMUS or Tovolo) and reusable freezer bags (like the 6 Pack Reusable Popsicles Frozen Bags) are excellent eco-friendly choices. They reduce waste compared to disposable options and can be used over and over again.