
Kids love nothing more than an ice pop on a hot day or at a birthday party. There are many adults who feel the same, especially if they have a touch of alcohol in them! Now you can make ice pops at home using left over juices and fruit. They are a healthy snack and very cost-effective.
Ice pop molds come in a wide variety of styles and shapes and some come with stands and funnels. You need molds that will make it easy for you to get the ice pop out! It is important that you can keep them clean and that they are made from safe materials. To get you started with choosing the best popsicle molds for you, here is our quick guide.
The Best Popsicle Mold
1
Zoku Space Popsicle Molds
Perfect for the little (and big) adventurers in your home, with this set of six molds you get an astronaut and five rockets which each have a different design. The astronaut will hold 1.2 fluid ounces and each of the rocket will hold 2.2 fluid ounces.
There is nothing more annoying that struggling to get the popsicles out of a mold so this Zoku quick pop maker has an easy-release design. All you have to do is pull on the handle and place it under warm water. Each mold has its own stick which has a drip guard to prevent sticky little fingers! You can also use these as a candy mold or for melted chocolate. A healthy alternative would be pure fruit juice. They are perfect for birthday parties or simply as a treat after a hard day in school. Your little one will be safe because they contain no BPAs or phthalates and are made from polypropylene and silicone which is completely hygienic and easy to clean. They need to be handwashed using mild detergent and water.
Six different designs
Easy to release
Drip-proof sticks
BPA and phthalate free
- BrandZoku
- ModelZK124
- Weight11.2 ounces
2
Tovolo Groovy Popsicle Molds
These ice pop molds would be great for adults or kids. You get a set of six popsicle molds in a groovy green or yellow design. They will last through many uses as they are made from a durable plastic which is BPA-free.
Each of the handles has a built-in drip guard to stop you getting drips on your hands or on your clothes. The shape has been specially designed to make it quick and easy to get the popsicle out.
In addition to the six molds, you get a matching base that measures 7 inches x 8 inches and which will stop the popsicles from tipping sideways in a crowded freezer. They are very easy to clean because you can pop them in the dishwasher.
Set of six popsicle molds
Built-in drip guards
Matching base to provide stability
Safe to put in the dishwasher
- BrandTovolo
- Model81-9172
- Weight1.54 pounds
3
Ozera Reusable Popsicle Molds
This product is a set of six popsicle molds which are made from durable plastic which is environmentally friendly and free from BPAs. This makes it perfectly safe for kids. Because you can use them over and over again, they also help you to cut down on household waste.
In addition to the popsicle molds, you also get a base to put them in. The popsicle handles are made with a built-in drip guard. All of the molds have been designed in a shape that makes it easy to get the popsicle out. It can be tricky to get the liquid in the popsicle mold without making a mess, so this kit also comes with a folding funnel. You even get a special brush which will allow you to clean the molds properly.
They are suitable for all types of ice pops so you can put juices, purees and yogurt in them as well as gelatin, ice cream and jellies. They make an excellent gift for any family that has kids and they come with a lifetime warranty.
Set of six popsicle molds
Supplied with a sturdy stand
Set includes a funnel and a brush
Suitable for all kinds of foods and drinks
- BrandWinsome
- Model92534
- Weight67 pounds
4
Norpro Frozen Ice Pop Maker
This is a single mold, in which you can make ten ice pops. It can be used for a combination of any type of juice as well as yogurt, gelatin, ice cream or even milk. Any combination is possible so there is plenty of scope for experimentation. They will be much healthier than anything you can buy in the store.
Once you have invested in the popsicle maker, it is reusable so it represents great value for money. The mold is made out of BPA-free material and is approved for use with food by the FDA. Each of the molds will hold three fluid ounces of liquid. The set is durable and comes with an aluminum frame to keep it stable. It comes with a lid that has grommets in it so that wooden sticks will be held perfectly upright in the molds. You get 24 standard size wooden sticks which are disposable. This mold needs to be hand-washed.
Single mold for 10 ice pops
Made from BPA-free material
Comes with aluminum frame
Lid with grommets and wooden sticks
- BrandNorpro
- Model423
- Weight1.54 pounds
5
Nuby Garden Fresh Fruitsicle Frozen Pop Tray
This cute little popsicle set can make four mini ice pops with a capacity of just one fluid ounce each. You can turn any suitable fruit juice or puree into a soothing ice pop. Your baby will love them and they are perfect for soothing the discomfort of teething.
The popsicle trays come with four little handles with a loop on them so they can be easily held by your baby’s little hands. The handles have a wide base which catch most of the drips and stop too much stickiness. For your peace of mind, the mold is made from BPA-free materials.
Popsicle mold that makes four ice pops
Each mold holds one fluid ounce
Four handles with wide hoops for little hands
Wide bases on handles to catch drips
- BrandNuby Garden
- Model5438
- Weight8.8 ounces
6
Lebice BoddyGift Popsicle Molds Set
You get a lot in this pop maker. For a start, you get the six individual molds and a stand, six silicone lids and 50 disposable ice pop sticks. Then you get a collapsible funnel for convenient filling. You also get a brush that will reach to the bottom of the molds for thorough cleaning. If you are stuck for ideas, you can consult the free recipe book.
With the innovative design of the lids, you get to eat the popsicles without the lid being left in your hands. All you have to hold is the stick. It is very easy to fill the molds and get the frozen ice pop out. For your convenience, the molds are dishwasher-proof.
Six individual molds
Lids and disposable handles
Brush and funnel included
- BrandLebice
- Weight14.4 ounces
7
Sunsella Silicone Popsicle Molds
A set of six conical pop molds in different vibrant colors that kids will love. They are each made out of high-grade silicone which is safe and non-stick – it is BPA free and meets the FDA standards. Each tube is eight inches long and holds 3.4 fluid ounces.
The silicone mold is very easy to fill with your choice of juice and have a tight-sealing cap so there will be no leaks. You can lie them on their side or stand them up in the freezer. You even get an e-book packed with 50 recipe ideas.
Tight-sealing cap
Holds 3.4 fluid ounces
- BrandSunsella
- Weight7.4 ounces
8
Zipzicle Zip-Top Ice Pop Pouch
A very handy pack of 36 disposable and freezer-safe pouches. You can use these for ice pops for the kids or ice cocktails for the adults! Each pouch is made from durable material that is phthalate-free and BPA-free. You don’t have to worry about tears and health.
They have reinforced seals to prevent any leakages when freezing. You can make these in large batches – you just fill them and zip them closed.
Perfect for soft drinks and alcohol
BPA-free
No leaks in the freezer
- BrandZipzicle
- ModelZIP36
- Weight1.6 ounces
9
Tovolo Easily Removable Dino Pop Molds
Your kids will have great fun with these dinosaur ice pops. The molds will make four frozen treats for your kids that look as good as they taste. Each of the molds has a matching lid so you get four unique designs.
To make it even more exciting, there are fossils hidden in the sticks which you find when the ice pop has been eaten. It is easy to get the ice pops out of the flexible molds. The base tray will fit in the freezer door to save space in the main compartment. Also available in other designs including monsters and robots.
Set of four molds
Dinosaur design
Flexible molds for easy removal
- BrandTovolo
- Model12 ounces
- Weight81-17092C
10
Mamasicles Popsicle Molds
A lovely set of six BPA-free molds that are large enough to keep adults and kids happy. They come with a stand so that they can be stored securely in the freezer. When you have finished, they can be washed on the top rack of the dishwasher.
With this kit you also get a silicone funnel and a brush for cleaning. There are slotted holes in the popsicle stick so it adheres securely to the ice, making it easy to pull out.
Set of six molds
BPA-free
Dishwasher safe on top rack
- BrandMamasicles
- ModelSYNCHKG072361
- Weight9.6 ounces
Best Popsicle Mold Buying Guide
What to Consider When Buying Popsicle Molds
Here’s what you should consider when you are buying popsicle molds yourself.
- Design
There is a huge range of designs and it is all down to personal choice. Remember that adults may want to use them as well! Novelty designs are fabulous for children’s parties.
- Non-stick
It can be tricky to get popsicles out of the mold so look out for a non-stick material. It can also help if the material is flexible.
- Individual/multiple sets
You can get popsicle sticks as one unit where up to six molds are made out of one piece of plastic. These take up very little space in the freezer and are very stable. The problem is that you will have wasted space if you do not have enough juice/drink to fill up all six of the molds. Alternatively, you can buy a set of six individual popsicle molds and these may come with a stand. These take up more room and are not so stable. However, it easier to get one ice pop out if you do not want to use all six at the same time!
- Stand
Some popsicle sets come with a stand to put them in when they are in the freezer. This makes them easier to fill and store.
- Material
Popsicles come into contact with food so it is important that they are made of food-grade material. You may also want to choose a product made from materials that are BPA and phthalate-free. Silicone molds are a safe choice.
- Number in a set
This depends on how many ice pops you want to make. If you are planning on inviting 10 children to a party, you definitely need a mold or a set of molds that can make 10 ice pops!
- Size
Ice pops are not very big but some are bigger than others. In general, a younger child will be satisfied with a smaller ice pop but big kids will demand something bigger! The tiny, one fluid ounce capacity popsicle sticks are ideal for teething babies.
- Extras
Some popsicle kits come with extras such as a funnel to make it easy to fill them and a brush for when you are washing them.
- Cleaning
Obviously, all popsicle sticks have to be cleaned as they are in contact with food. However, some can be put in the dishwasher and you may find that more convenient than hand-washing.
Benefits of Homemade Popsicles
Your family will get several benefits from enjoying popsicles all year round. Here are the main ones.
- They are environmentally friendly
They are designed to be used over and over again. This cuts down on packaging waste and protects the environment.
- They provide hydration
It is vitally important that everyone takes on sufficient fluids, especially when the weather is hot. However, some people find it tiresome to walk around with a bottle of water and it can be especially hard to persuade children to drink. You won’t have problems persuading them to eat a popsicle!
- They are healthy
Popsicles can be as healthy as you want them to be. If you make popsicles with pure organic fruit juice and pieces of fruit, there is nothing healthier. These contain more vitamins and minerals than shop-bought ice pops and contain no artificial additives.
- They are versatile
The only limit to popsicles is your imagination! You can use any sort of juice, dairy products or fruit purees. They can be used as a dessert after a family meal.
- They use up left overs
Popsicles are a fantastic way of using up leftovers. You could put some chocolate milk in them, some berries that have been smashed up in the carton, some old yoghurt and even some blackberry jam. Often you can mix things up in a blender and they make a lovely fruit cocktail popsicle.
- They are great for entertaining
If you have some children over for a party, these are a great way to end the proceedings. The kids will go home happy and the popsicles will cool them down when they have been running around.
- They appeal to adults and children
Popsicles are not just for children. There is nothing wrong with a gin and tonic popsicle on a hot day! Why should kids have all the fun?
- They are suitable for babies
You would not want your baby exposed to the chemicals in commercially available ice pops but the ones that you make yourself are a different matter. Any baby over six months old can have a homemade fruit juice ice pop to help with teething.
Best Popsicle Mold FAQ:
Q: What is a popsicle mold?
A: A popsicle mold is a plastic mold into which you can pour juices or cordials. They come with a handle which you place into the liquid before placing the molds in the freezer. You are basically making a home-made ice snack. They can be enjoyed by both adults and children of all ages.
The appeal of popsicles is their versatility. The molds come in a huge range of shapes and styles and you can freeze just about any liquid inside them including yoghurt. You can also put fruit pieces inside as well as alcohol.
You can eat the frozen popsicle directly from the mold or you can remove it and re-freeze it in an airtight plastic container, wax paper or a plastic wrap. The second freezing will mean that the ice pop will keep its shape better and will take longer to melt when you come to eat it.
A well-wrapped ice popsicle will keep in your freezer for three or four weeks.
Q: How can I remove popsicles from molds?
A: There are a few ways to easily remove popsicles from their mold. Some people find that the easiest approach is to fill a container with a warm but not hot water. Then, you simply dip the bottom of the mold into the water for around 20 seconds. This is usually sufficient to loosen the popsicle so that it can be lifted out of the mold. To do this, remove the mold from the warm water and put it on a flat surface. Then, grip the handle and pull gently upwards. If the popsicle does not come out easily, put it back in the warm water for another 10 seconds.
You do have the option of leaving the ice pop out on a surface at room temperature for a while. After a few minutes, you will be able to remove them from the mold. However, bear in mind that if you do this, the popsicle will not have clean edges. It can also make popsicles very messy, especially if they are made with yoghurt.
Finally, you could just run the mold under warm water. This is useful if you just want to take out one popsicle from a mold that contains several that are fixed together. However, it can a bit uneven and you may find that some parts of the popsicles are melted more than others. Also, popsicles that have fruit chunks in them are always harder to get out of molds so they may have to take more time.
Q: How should I care for my popsicle molds?
A: Popsicle molds should come with instructions from the manufacturer about how they should be cleaned. Some can only be cleaned by hand with a mild detergent whilst others can be put in the dishwasher although this may be limited to the top rack. It is important that you adhere to these instructions.
The molds must be very well cleaned for hygiene reasons and to stop the contents from sticking to the inside of the mold. Remember that the handles also have to be cleaned as well as they are in contact with the frozen liquid that you are going to consume. For this reason, it may be necessary to use a special brush so you can reach to the bottom of the mold.
Once they are clean, they need to be air dried and stored in a dry place.
Q: How do I keep popsicles from sticking to mold?
A: Sometimes it can be a struggle to get the popsicle out of the mold and that is very frustrating! In general, this happens with molds that have inadequate handles. You may find that the handle snaps off before the popsicle comes out! You can stop this happening by getting a pop mold that has big and strong handles. Wooden handles more likely to snap.
Another problem can be that you didn’t stick the handle in far enough so make sure that you do this every time. If you are impatient and try to get the popsicle out before it has fully frozen, you will have problems so be prepared to wait until the freezing process is complete.
There are some mixtures that are more likely to stick and cause problems when coming out so you may prefer to avoid these. Sugar-free ice popsicles can be very sticky and hard to get out as can those made with a weak juice concentrate. However, those made with yogurt are often easier to remove.
Some silicone molds have tabs that allow you to peel the mold away gradually and these seldom cause sticking problems. Putting fruit in a popsicle is a lovely idea but if the portions of fruit are too big, they will stick to the sides. Therefore, always make sure that the fruit is chopped into small pieces.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick of the best popsicle molds is a set of six with an astronaut and rocket theme. Each will hold around 1.2 or 2.2 fluid ounces. They have an easy-release design so all you have to do is put them in warm water.
Each mold has its own stick with a drip guard to stop the kids getting too sticky. They are perfect for birthday and your little one will be safe as they contain no BPAs or phthalates. The polypropylene and silicone molds need to be hand-washed.
Source:
- How to Freeze Foods - HowStuffWorks