Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops (or Smoothie)

Vanilla Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops are a delicious and healthy treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Made with yogurt and frozen fruit, these popsicles are a refreshing and nutritious option for hot summer days.

History

The idea of combining yogurt and fruit to make frozen popsicles or smoothies is not a new concept. Yogurt has been a popular ingredient in frozen treats for centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world. The addition of frozen fruit adds a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor to the popsicles.

Ingredients

1 qt (946 ml) of vanilla yogurt

How to prepare

Divide the mixture into several 1 cup servings and freeze them to be used as needed.
Whenever we have overripe bananas, I peel them, cut them into 3-4 pieces, and place them in a container in the freezer.
Similarly, any ripe fruit or fruit salad that has lost its visual appeal can also be placed in a container in the freezer.
I use one container as a catchall for fruits.
If my son doesn't finish an apple and it starts to turn slightly brown, or if I have a large summer fruit salad that doesn't look very appealing the next day, I freeze it or use it to make fruit pops or smoothies.
You will need Tupperware popsicle molds or small paper cups and popsicle sticks.
On the day you want to make these popsicles, take out your blender, a small container of yogurt, and the ripe frozen fruit from the freezer.
Break the yogurt into 2-4 pieces using a knife, being careful.
Place the broken yogurt pieces in the blender.
Add some pineapple juice and blend everything together. Add enough liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
Place 4-6 chunks of frozen banana in the blender, or use less banana and add some other fruit. You can even add applesauce. If needed, add more pineapple juice.
Blend everything together until smooth.
Fill up the popsicle molds first.
Serve the remaining mixture as a nutritious smoothie.

Variations

Try using different types of yogurt, such as Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt, for a different taste.
Add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Mix in nuts or granola for added texture and crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe or overripe fruit for the best flavor in your popsicles.

- Experiment with different combinations of fruit to create your own unique flavor profiles.

- Add a splash of juice or milk to the mixture to adjust the consistency to your liking.

- Use popsicle molds or small paper cups with popsicle sticks to create the perfect frozen treats.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops as a refreshing snack or dessert on a hot day. They are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Cooking Techniques

Blend the yogurt and frozen fruit together until smooth, then pour into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan or lactose-free version.

- Substitute different fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the mixture ahead of time and freeze in individual servings for a quick and easy snack option.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops in colorful popsicle molds or on a platter with fresh fruit garnishes for a fun and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing summer treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to thaw slightly before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the fruit and yogurt.

Fats

Each serving of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops contains approximately 2 grams of fat, mainly from the yogurt.

Proteins

Each serving of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops contains approximately 5 grams of protein, primarily from the yogurt.

Vitamins and minerals

Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and calcium from the fruit and yogurt.

Alergens

Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops may contain dairy allergens from the yogurt. Check the ingredients for any potential allergens before consuming.

Summary

Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops are a nutritious and delicious treat that is low in fat and calories, while providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops are a simple and healthy treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a delicious and nutritious snack or dessert that is perfect for hot summer days.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished watering my garden when a neighbor stopped by to drop off a basket of fresh strawberries and blueberries. As we chatted on the porch, she mentioned a new recipe she had tried for Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops that her grandchildren absolutely loved.

Intrigued, I asked her to share the recipe with me. She smiled and pulled out a worn piece of paper from her pocket, scribbled with ingredients and instructions in her neat handwriting. As she read through the recipe, my mouth watered at the thought of the sweet and refreshing treat.

I thanked my neighbor for the recipe and immediately went inside to gather the ingredients. I had some plain yogurt in the fridge, and with the fresh berries from the garden, I was all set to make my own batch of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops.

As I blended the yogurt and berries together in my trusty old blender, the sweet aroma of the fruit filled the air. I poured the mixture into popsicle molds and placed them in the freezer to set. The anticipation of trying out the new recipe made the hours seem to drag on endlessly.

Finally, the pops were ready, and I carefully removed them from the molds. The vibrant colors of the berries swirled together with the creamy yogurt, creating a beautiful and enticing treat. I took a bite, and the burst of fruity flavor combined with the smooth texture of the yogurt was pure bliss.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. Over the years, I have made countless batches of Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops, experimenting with different fruit combinations and variations. Each time, they never fail to bring a smile to my face and joy to those who taste them.

As I continued to make the popsicle recipe, I shared it with friends and family, passing on the joy of this simple yet delicious treat. My grandchildren, in particular, have become avid fans of the Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops, always begging me to make more whenever they come over for a visit.

One summer, my granddaughter asked if we could try turning the pops into smoothies instead. Intrigued by her idea, we blended the frozen pops with a splash of milk to create a creamy and refreshing beverage. The smoothies were a hit, and we spent the afternoon sipping on our fruity concoctions and enjoying each other's company.

As the years went by, the recipe for Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pops (and Smoothies) became a cherished tradition in our family. It symbolized not just a delicious treat, but also the love and joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones. I am grateful for the neighbor who first introduced me to this recipe, as it has brought so much happiness into my life and the lives of those around me.

Now, as I sit on my porch on another hot summer day, enjoying a Frozen Fruit-Yogurt Pop with my grandchildren by my side, I am reminded of the simple pleasures in life. The taste of sweet berries and creamy yogurt, the laughter of loved ones, and the warmth of the sun on my skin - these are the moments that make life truly special. And for that, I am forever grateful.