Layered Watermelon Popsicles: the Easy, No-Bake Recipe for Fresh Popsicles With Just 4 Ingredients!

It’s summer and that means it’s officially popsicle time! Popsicles are great for cooling you down on a hot summer’s day, and there’s an endless variety of popsicles you can—try a new one each weekend. These Homemade Layered Watermelon Popsicles are easy to make and are also super refreshing. The name comes not only from the watermelon as the main ingredient, the popsicles are also creatively made to look like watermelon slices. Using a food processor, or blender, they are quick to make. Simply fill your popsicle maker, and wait to freeze. Each bite is a pop of fruity flavor—it might just be your new favorite!

Much healthier than packaged popsicles, they contain only fresh fruit, plain yogurt and a spoonful of vanilla extract, which you can also omit if you like more natural flavors. To recall the classic slice of watermelon, we blend the pulp of the watermelon, while the plain yogurt and kiwi simulate the white part and the green outer rind. At the end, we dip the popsicles into melted chocolate, to make them even more delicious!

What Are Layered Watermelon Popsicles?

Watermelon popsicles, a refreshing treat beloved by many, have origins rooted in the early 20th century when popsicles themselves became a popular summer delight. The simplicity and natural sweetness of watermelon made it a perfect candidate for freezing into ice pops. Layered watermelon popsicles evolved as a creative twist, adding visual appeal and flavor complexity by combining watermelon with other fruits or ingredients like coconut milk, mint, or lime. This innovation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also offers a delightful mix of flavors in every bite. The trend of making layered popsicles likely gained traction with the rise of culinary experimentation and social media, where vibrant, eye-catching desserts are shared and celebrated.

Tips to Get the Best Layered Watermelon Popsicles

• For the best flavor, select a ripe watermelon. It should be heavy for its size and have a deep, hollow sound when tapped. This ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness in your popsicles.
• Strain the blended watermelon if you prefer a seed-free mixture.
• Allow each layer to freeze completely before adding the next. This prevents the layers from mixing and ensures a clear, distinct separation. Typically, 1-2 hours per layer should suffice, depending on your freezer.
• When blending kiwis, you can leave some seeds in for a bit of texture and visual appeal, but ensure the mixture is smooth enough to create a solid layer.
• Melt your chocolate slowly to avoid burning it. Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Let the popsicles sit for a minute after dipping to allow the chocolate to set evenly without running.
• To remove the popsicles from the molds without breaking them, briefly run the mold under warm water or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This helps loosen the popsicles and makes them easier to pull out.
• If you’re not serving immediately, store the finished popsicles in an airtight container or wrap them individually in parchment paper to prevent freezer burn and preserve their fresh taste.

Can I Make These Layered Popsicles Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container or individually wrapped in parchment paper in the freezer for up to a few weeks to ensure they remain fresh and delicious.

Can I Use Frozen Watermelon, Instead?

Yes, you can use frozen watermelon! Simply thaw it slightly before blending to ensure a smooth consistency for your popsicles.

Do I Have to Strain the Watermelon Blend?

Straining the watermelon blend is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture without pulp or seeds, strain the blend before pouring it into the molds.

What Can I Use Instead of a Popsicles Mold If I Don't Have One?

If you don't have a popsicle mold, you can use small paper cups or silicone muffin cups. Fill them with your mixture, cover with foil, and insert a popsicle stick through the foil to keep it upright while freezing.

Can I Use Different Types of Fruit for This Recipe?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries for varied flavors and colors.

How Do I Get My Popsicles Out of The Molds?

To get the popsicles out of the molds, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes. This will help loosen the popsicles, making them easier to remove.

More Popsicles Recipes for Your Summer

Fruity Popsicles

Pistachio Popsicles

Chocolate Popsicles

Strawberries and Cream Popsicles

Pineapple Coconut Popsicles

How to Store Layered Watermelon Popsicles

Store these layered watermelon popsicles in an airtight container or wrap them individually in parchment paper to prevent freezer burn. They will keep for up to a few weeks in the freezer.

How to Make Layered Watermelon Popsicles

Blend the watermelon chunks well (strain the mixture if you prefer a smooth and seedless popsicle).

Pour the mixture into the popsicle molds and let freeze for at least an hour.

Mix the yogurt with the vanilla extract.

Using a pipe bag, pour it over the frozen watermelon mixture and let freeze for another hour, at least.

Finally, cut the kiwis into chunks and blend those as well (if you want, you can strain this mixture as well, but leaving a few seeds is fine both for texture and visual appeal).

Pour the blended kiwi on top of the yogurt frozen layer and let freeze for at least another hour.

Once the popsicles have fully froze, dip the tops in melted chocolate.

Freeze for 5 minutes more, to let the chocolate topping set, then serve.

Enjoy while the popsicles are still fresh!