Icy cold summer snacks

Technically, we aren’t supposed to call them “popsicles.” That’s a registered trademark. But ice pops, creamy pops made with milk or yogurt, and other fruity desserts-on-a-stick are having a moment.

You might be seeing them pop up on your Instagram feed, in bright colours, made with orange and mango and filled with pieces of fruit. Because pops are versatile and easy to make, it’s worth it to try them at home, says baking and dessert blogger Vallery Lomas.

You need only fruit juice or iced tea, and whatever fresh or frozen fruit you have on hand. You can add milk, cream, chocolate or even the last of that swig of St. Germain or bourbon if that’s what it takes to cool off.

Lomas recently posted an Instagram video class for her blueberry, Greek yogurt and coconut milk pops. “I started making popsicles because I lived in an apartment with no air-conditioning,” Lomas said. “I like them for a summertime breakfast or snack because I can control what’s in it. I get good fat from the yogurt and it keeps me full.”

Ice pops also a make a good cooking project for kids, allowing them to combine fruits, even though freezing and unmoulding do require patience.

Pops are also great for serving at a social distance. Just grab a stick and keep it moving.

Here are some tips for making your own pops:

Moulds: You can find ice pop moulds at home goods stores. To remove the pops, run hot water over the mould until the pop releases.

Fruit pops: You’ll need about two cups of fresh or frozen fruit, one-quarter cup of orange or apple juice, or two to three tablespoons of sugar or other sweetener. Purée the ingredients in a blender, then pour into moulds. Add one tablespoon of lemon juice to preserve colour. Creamy pops: A cup of Greek yogurt and one-quarter cup of milk can serve as the base for creamy pops. Feel free to use coconut water, soy or almond milk. You can add whole fruit to this base or put all the ingredients into a blender and purée.

Layered pops: Let each layer of fruit purée or creamy pop mixture set in the freezer for at least 20 minutes before adding the next flavour.