One of the best popsicles I ever tasted was at a bar in Mexico while enjoying a typical college spring break. I would love to tell you that I remember the food enjoyed during that week, but the truth is, it was the popsicles. Before that trip, popsicles were the sort of treat I enjoyed when I was 6 while sitting in the shade, not in my 20s sitting in a cantina. There was something remarkably delicious about a lime popsicle with Tequila poured over it, so delicious in fact that the idea of a boozy popsicle has stayed with me over the years creeping into my summer parties as away of offering a playful alternative to my standard cocktail menu.
There are a variety of ways of serving boozy popsicles, by far the easiest is to place the virgin popsicle into a glass and top it with Champagne or sparkling wine, or to serve it cantina style by simply pouring a shot of something potent over the popsicle and serving it immediately. If you are feeling adventurous, and time is on your side, set aside a few hours before the party to prepare your all in one boozy popsicle that will give a playful spin to your outdoor entertaining this season. Trial and error has taught me a few things about setting the perfect boozy popsicle, before you set about creating your frozen libations, considered the following:
- Store bought chocolate syrup does not freeze, it needs to be lightly incorporated into your recipe. Opt for cocoa powder instead.
- The higher the proof, the less likely it will freeze.
- Layering creates a fabulous visual, but takes time, so set aside 2 hours of freezing time for each layer.
- Plastic popsicle holders work well, but silicone ones work better.
- Small Dixie Cups make a great alternative to the traditional popsicle set.
- Add a splash of style to your popsicles by using heirloom silver spoons as popsicle sticks.
- If you are adding citrus, remove the skin to prevent a bitter aftertaste.
- Don’t be afraid to use herbs or edible flowers, they freeze beautifully.
For lazy popsicle making, stick with standard frozen cocktails like a Daiquiri or Margarita. Simply blend your cocktails and pour them into your molds 4 hours before the party begins. If you are looking for more creative recipes, try my Vodka Creamsicle Pop, Blue Moon Beer Pop, Mocha MudSlide Pop, Mojito Pop and Campari popsicle recipes featured on Celebrations.com.
Recommended Reading
How to host an inexpensive spring fling | Coryanne for She Knows
Sparking Wine vs Champagne | Coryanne for The Daily Meal
Spring Entertaining Essentials | housewifebliss.com
