Introduction & Inspiration: Healthy, Homemade Sunshine on a Stick!
These Strawberry Banana Popsicles are my absolute favorite way to cool down on a warm day! I love how incredibly easy they are to make, using simple, wholesome ingredients like fresh fruit, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of maple syrup. They’re naturally sweet, refreshing, and guilt-free.
The inspiration for this recipe came from wanting a healthier alternative to store-bought popsicles, which are often loaded with artificial colors, flavors, and refined sugars. I wanted a treat that both kids and adults could enjoy, packed with real fruit goodness. This combination of strawberry, banana, and coconut is pure magic.
Making popsicles at home is surprisingly simple, especially with a recipe like this that requires just a blender and some molds. It’s a fun activity, and the results are so much better than anything you can buy.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy way to beat the heat, look no further! These Strawberry Banana Popsicles are sunshine on a stick, ready to brighten your day.
Nostalgic Appeal (The Simple Joy of a Frozen Treat)
Popsicles instantly transport me back to childhood summers. The sound of the ice cream truck, sticky fingers, and the pure joy of a cold, sweet treat on a hot afternoon. It’s a universal feeling of simple happiness.
These homemade Strawberry Banana Popsicles capture that nostalgic essence, but with a modern, healthier twist. They offer the same fun, frozen format we loved as kids, but are made with ingredients you can feel good about. It’s comfort food, reimagined.
The combination of strawberry and banana is also a classic, beloved pairing that appeals to almost everyone. It’s familiar, sweet, and incredibly satisfying, especially when blended with creamy coconut milk.
Making and enjoying these popsicles is a way to reconnect with those simple summer pleasures. It’s about creating new, healthy traditions while honoring those sweet childhood memories.
Homemade Focus (Easy, Healthy, and Completely Customizable!)
I’m a huge believer in the power of homemade, especially when it comes to treats! These popsicles are a fantastic example of how easy it is to create something delicious and much healthier than store-bought options right in your own kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its use of whole ingredients. We’re using real fruit (strawberries and banana), creamy coconut milk (making them dairy-free!), and a natural sweetener (maple syrup). No artificial anything in sight!
Making them at home also means you have complete control. You can adjust the sweetness, swap fruits, add extra flavors – the possibilities are endless! It’s a fantastic base recipe for getting creative.
Plus, it’s a perfect activity to do with kids! They love helping to blend the ingredients and pour the mixture into the molds. It’s a fun way to get them excited about healthy eating.
Flavor Goal: Creamy, Fruity, and Naturally Sweet
The flavor goal for these popsicles is a delightful balance of creamy texture and bright, fruity taste, with just the right amount of natural sweetness. We want the strawberry and banana flavors to shine through, complemented by the richness of the coconut milk.
The coconut milk provides a wonderful creaminess, making these popsicles feel indulgent without using dairy cream. Full-fat coconut milk works best for the richest texture. The banana also contributes significantly to the creamy consistency and natural sweetness.
The strawberries are the star fruit flavor here, offering their signature sweetness and slight tartness. The maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit without being overpowering. A touch of lemon juice (though not in the original recipe, I often add it) can brighten the flavors even more.
The final result should be a smooth, creamy, intensely fruity popsicle that’s refreshing and satisfying, not overly sugary or artificial tasting. It’s pure fruit flavor in frozen form.
Ingredient Insights: The Power Trio + Sweetener
Let’s look at the simple, powerful ingredients in this recipe:
- Coconut Milk: This is the secret to the amazing creaminess without dairy! Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the best, richest texture. Light coconut milk will result in icier popsicles. Shake the can well before opening.
- Fresh Strawberries: Provide the primary fruit flavor, beautiful color, and natural sweetness. Ripe, flavorful berries are best. You can also use frozen strawberries.
- Medium Banana (Ripe): Adds significant natural sweetness and contributes hugely to the creamy, smooth texture. A ripe banana blends easily and has the best flavor.
- Maple Syrup: A natural liquid sweetener that blends easily and adds a subtle warmth. You can adjust the amount to your preference or substitute with honey, agave, or date syrup (though these will slightly alter the flavor). For less sweetness, reduce or omit.
- (Optional but Recommended) Lemon/Lime Juice: Although not listed, I often add a squeeze (about ½ – 1 tsp) of fresh lemon or lime juice. It doesn’t make the popsicles taste sour; instead, it brightens the fruit flavors and balances the sweetness.
Essential Equipment: Blender and Molds!
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, reflected in the minimal equipment needed:
- Blender (or Food Processor): Essential for pureeing the fruit and coconut milk into a smooth mixture. A high-speed blender works best for the smoothest results.
- Popsicle Molds: You’ll need molds to shape and freeze the popsicles. The recipe suggests 12 molds (around 3 oz. each). Silicone molds are often easiest to release.
- Popsicle Sticks: If your molds don’t come with built-in sticks/holders.
- Paper Cups & Foil (Alternative): If you don’t have molds, you can use small paper cups. Pour the mixture in, cover tightly with foil, and insert a popsicle stick through the center of the foil.
That’s really all you need! Simple tools for a simple, delicious treat.
List of Ingredients with Measurements (Perfectly Portioned)
Here’s your shopping list for these refreshing popsicles:
- 1 can (13.66 ounces) coconut milk (preferably full-fat)
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, chopped, divided (about 2 cups chopped total)
- 1 medium banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 12 freezer pop molds or 12 paper cups (3 oz. each) and wooden pop sticks
It’s a wonderfully short and wholesome ingredient list!
Remember to reserve some chopped strawberries to add to the molds for pretty fruit pieces within the popsicles.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Blend, Pour, Freeze!
Making these popsicles is incredibly easy. Here’s how:
1. Prepare Fruit:
Wash and hull the strawberries. Chop them roughly. Set aside about ½ cup of the chopped strawberries.
Peel and slice the banana.
2. Blend the Base:
In a blender, combine the coconut milk, 1 ½ cups of the chopped strawberries (reserving the other ½ cup), the sliced banana, and the maple syrup.
Cover the blender and process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Prepare Molds/Cups:
Divide the remaining ½ cup of chopped strawberries evenly among the 12 popsicle molds or paper cups. Placing a few pieces in the bottom of each adds visual appeal and texture.
4. Fill Molds/Cups:
Pour the pureed strawberry-banana mixture into the molds or cups over the chopped strawberries, filling each one about three-fourths full. Leave a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
5. Add Sticks/Holders:
Top the molds with their specific holders or lids/sticks.
If using paper cups, cover the top of each cup tightly with a small piece of aluminum foil. Carefully make a small slit in the center of the foil with a sharp knife and insert a wooden popsicle stick through the slit into the mixture. The foil holds the stick upright.
6. Freeze:
Place the molds or cups upright in the freezer.
Freeze until completely firm, at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
7. Unmold and Enjoy:
To easily remove the popsicles from the molds, briefly run the outside of the mold under warm (not hot) water for a few seconds. Gently pull the popsicle out. If using paper cups, simply tear the cup away.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Strawberry Banana Popsicles immediately!
Troubleshooting: Avoiding Iciness and Unmolding Woes
Even simple recipes can have little glitches. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
Problem: Popsicles are too icy, not creamy.
Cause: Using light coconut milk instead of full-fat; insufficient blending; too much water content (from less ripe fruit or added liquid). Solution: Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess. Blend until very smooth. Ensure fruit is ripe. Avoid adding extra water. A tablespoon of neutral oil or cashew butter blended in can sometimes help reduce iciness.
Problem: Popsicles are difficult to remove from molds.
Cause: Frozen too solidly to the mold sides. Solution: Run the outside of the mold under warm water for 5-10 seconds. Wiggle the stick gently. Don’t use hot water, as it can melt the popsicle too quickly. Silicone molds are generally easier to release.
Problem: Popsicles aren’t sweet enough.
Cause: Fruit wasn’t very ripe, or personal preference. Solution: Add more maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener) to the blender mixture next time, tasting before you freeze.
Problem: Layers separated (if trying layered variations). Solution: Partially freeze each layer before adding the next.
Tips and Variations: Endless Frozen Fun!
This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity:
- Creamier Texture: Use full-fat coconut milk! You can also replace a small amount of the coconut milk with cashew cream or a tablespoon of neutral oil for extra creaminess.
- Get Zesty: Add 1-2 teaspoons of lime or lemon zest to the blender for a brighter flavor.
- Vanilla Boost: Add ½ – 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the blender mixture.
- Other Fruits: Swap some or all of the strawberries/banana for mango, pineapple, peaches, raspberries, blueberries, kiwi… the possibilities are endless! Adjust sweetener as needed based on fruit sweetness.
- Hidden Greens: Sneak in a small handful of baby spinach into the blender – the color will be slightly affected, but the flavor is usually masked by the fruit.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once frozen, drizzle the popsicles with melted dark chocolate.
- Layered Pops: Blend different fruit mixtures separately (e.g., a mango layer, a strawberry layer) and carefully pour them into the molds, partially freezing each layer before adding the next.
- Chunkier Texture: Reserve more chopped fruit and stir it into the blended mixture before pouring into molds, in addition to placing some in the bottom.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions: Cool Treats for Warm Days
These popsicles are perfect served simply:
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve straight from the freezer on a hot day!
- Perfect for kids’ parties, after-school snacks, poolside treats, or a light dessert.
- Arrange them on a platter with ice for a party presentation.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Honestly, they are fantastic on their own!
- A glass of cold water or sparkling water is refreshing alongside.
- For an adult treat, pair with a light, fruity cocktail or sparkling wine.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, as of March 26, 2025)
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per pop (assuming 12 pops):
- Calories: 51
- Fat: 3g (3g saturated fat) – Mainly from coconut milk.
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg – Very low.
- Carbohydrate: 7g (5g sugars, 1g fiber) – Mostly natural sugars from fruit and maple syrup.
- Protein: 1g
This information is based on the provided nutrition facts. These popsicles are a wonderfully light and relatively healthy frozen treat compared to many commercial options!
Print
Strawberry Banana Popsicles
Description
These Strawberry Banana Popsicles are my absolute favorite way to cool down on a warm day! I love how incredibly easy they are to make, using simple, wholesome ingredients like fresh fruit, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of maple syrup. They’re naturally sweet, refreshing, and guilt-free.
Ingredients
- 1 can (13.66 ounces) coconut milk (preferably full-fat)
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, chopped, divided (about 2 cups chopped total)
- 1 medium banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 12 freezer pop molds or 12 paper cups (3 oz. each) and wooden pop sticks
Instructions
Making these popsicles is incredibly easy. Here’s how:
1. Prepare Fruit:
Wash and hull the strawberries. Chop them roughly. Set aside about ½ cup of the chopped strawberries.
Peel and slice the banana.
2. Blend the Base:
In a blender, combine the coconut milk, 1 ½ cups of the chopped strawberries (reserving the other ½ cup), the sliced banana, and the maple syrup.
Cover the blender and process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Prepare Molds/Cups:
Divide the remaining ½ cup of chopped strawberries evenly among the 12 popsicle molds or paper cups. Placing a few pieces in the bottom of each adds visual appeal and texture.
4. Fill Molds/Cups:
Pour the pureed strawberry-banana mixture into the molds or cups over the chopped strawberries, filling each one about three-fourths full. Leave a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
5. Add Sticks/Holders:
Top the molds with their specific holders or lids/sticks.
If using paper cups, cover the top of each cup tightly with a small piece of aluminum foil. Carefully make a small slit in the center of the foil with a sharp knife and insert a wooden popsicle stick through the slit into the mixture. The foil holds the stick upright.
6. Freeze:
Place the molds or cups upright in the freezer.
Freeze until completely firm, at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
7. Unmold and Enjoy:
To easily remove the popsicles from the molds, briefly run the outside of the mold under warm (not hot) water for a few seconds. Gently pull the popsicle out. If using paper cups, simply tear the cup away.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Strawberry Banana Popsicles immediately
Recipe Summary and Q&A: Your Guide to Easy Homemade Popsicles
Let’s recap this refreshing Strawberry Banana Popsicle recipe!
Summary: These Strawberry Banana Popsicles are a simple, healthy, and delicious frozen treat made by blending coconut milk, fresh strawberries, banana, and maple syrup. The mixture is poured into molds with additional chopped strawberries and frozen until firm. They are creamy, fruity, naturally sweetened, and dairy-free.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or soy), but the popsicles will be much icier and less creamy, as they lack the high fat content of full-fat coconut milk.
Q: Can I use sugar instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar or another liquid sweetener like agave or honey. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level. Start with the same amount and taste before freezing.
Q: How long do these popsicles keep in the freezer?
A: Stored properly in their molds or in freezer bags/containers, they should last for several weeks, although they are best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: My popsicles are rock hard. How can I make them softer? A: Using full-fat coconut milk and ensuring a good amount of fruit puree helps. A tiny splash of vodka (for adults only!) can lower the freezing point, making them slightly less icy. Letting them sit at room temp for a minute or two before eating also helps.