Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely freeze yogurt to make popsicles at home. Plain yogurt contains live active cultures that allow it to be frozen without compromising texture or taste. Greek yogurt in particular holds up very well when frozen into popsicles due to its thick, creamy consistency. Freezing yogurt is an easy way to make homemade popsicles that are healthier and more nutritious than store-bought varieties.
Can You Freeze Any Type of Yogurt?
Most types of yogurt can be frozen into popsicles, including:
- Plain yogurt
- Greek yogurt
- Flavored yogurt
- Skyr yogurt
- Goat milk yogurt
- Coconut milk yogurt
- Soy yogurt
The key is to use yogurt that contains live and active cultures. These cultures produce lactic acid that keeps the yogurt from separating or turning watery when frozen.
Yogurts that don’t contain active cultures may separate or become runny once thawed. Always check the label when selecting yogurt to freeze into popsicles.
Thick strained yogurts like Greek yogurt and Skyr are ideal for freezing. Their extra density results in a creamier, smoother popsicle texture. Non-fat and low-fat yogurts can also be used but may become icy. Adding a bit of fruit puree can help improve the texture.
Choosing a Yogurt for Popsicles
When selecting a yogurt for homemade popsicles, keep these tips in mind:
- Check for live and active cultures on the label
- Go for thicker, strained yogurts like Greek and Skyr
- Avoid non-fat or low-fat yogurts, which can become icy
- Flavored yogurts work well, but avoid varieties with too many added sugars
- For a creamier texture, use full fat yogurt
- Organic yogurt offers more nutritional benefits
Thick Greek yogurts and Skyr are the best options as they naturally lend a rich, creamy popsicle texture. Flavored yogurts infuse pops with instant flavor, just be mindful of added sugars.
For a nutritious popsicle, look for organic yogurts with live cultures and minimal added sweeteners. Plain yogurt is very versatile and allows you to control flavor and texture.
Freezing Yogurt in Popsicle Molds
Making yogurt popsicles at home is easy with just a few basic steps:
- Select your yogurt variety and any additional ingredients
- Whisk yogurt to reach a smooth, lump-free consistency
- Pour yogurt mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a bit of space at the top
- Add popsicle sticks and freeze for 6-8 hours or overnight
- Unmold and enjoy!
Be sure to fill your popsicle molds only about 3/4 full before freezing to leave room for expansion. Insert sticks and freeze yogurt popsicles until completely solid, 6-8 hours or overnight.
Metal molds with tight sealing lids work best to prevent freezer burn. For easy removal, run molds under warm water to loosen popsicles before unmolding.
Tips for Freezing Yogurt Popsicles
- Whisk yogurt smooth before freezing
- Fill molds 3/4 full to allow for expansion
- Insert sticks before freezing
- Freeze 6-8 hours or overnight
- Unmold under warm running water
- Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 months
Following these simple tips will result in creamy, flavorful homemade yogurt popsicles!
Adding Fruit and Flavors
One of the great things about making your own yogurt popsicles is that you can customize flavors. Here are some easy mix-ins to liven up plain yogurt:
- Fresh fruit like mango, berries, banana, pineapple
- Fruit juice or puree
- Jam, preserves, or honey
- Granola or crushed cookies
- Peanut butter or nut butters
- Shredded coconut
- Vanilla, cinnamon, or extracts
- Chopped nuts or seeds
Blend any of these mix-ins into your yogurt base before freezing for incredible flavor combinations. Berries, bananas, mangos, and pineapples make tropical fruity pops. Swirl in jam or preserves for vivid stripes.
Chopped nuts add crunchy texture and peanut butter delivers a creamy, nutty twist. Vanilla and cinnamon give yogurt pops warmth and spice. Get creative with your own yogurt popsicle flavors!
Creative Yogurt Popsicle Flavor Ideas
| Flavor | Mix-Ins |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Banana | Strawberries, banana, honey |
| Piña Colada | Pineapple, coconut, rum extract |
| Cookies and Cream | Crushed Oreos, vanilla |
| Mint Chocolate Chip | Mint extract, chocolate chips |
| PB&J | Strawberry jam, peanut butter |
Making Greek Yogurt Popsicles
Thick and creamy Greek yogurt is one of the best options for making homemade frozen pops. It naturally results in a decadent, ice cream-like texture when frozen. Greek yogurt requires little added sweetener and effortlessly incorporates mix-ins.
Follow the same easy steps to transform Greek yogurt into popsicles:
- Whisk Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy
- Mix in any fruits, juices, extracts, nuts, or other add-ins
- Pour into molds, insert sticks, and freeze 6-8 hours
- Unmold and enjoy Greek yogurt popsicles!
Greek yogurt pops shine with simple bright fruit flavors like strawberry, mango, blueberry, and raspberry. For an indulgent treat, swirl in chocolate hazelnut spread or caramel sauce.
Pops made with Greek yogurt end up rich, smooth, and satisfying – an upgraded twist on regular yogurt popsicles!
Delicious Greek Yogurt Popsicle Ideas
- Lemon Blueberry
- Salted Caramel
- Raspberry Cheesecake
- Peaches and Cream
- Pumpkin Pie
- Chocolate Hazelnut
Troubleshooting Yogurt Popsicles
While yogurt popsicles are easy to make, here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
Popsicles are icy
Use a thicker yogurt variety like Greek or Skyr which freeze creamier. Avoid non-fat or low-fat yogurts. Add a fruit puree to improve texture.
Yogurt separates or is watery
Be sure to use a yogurt containing live active cultures like Greek yogurt. Yogurts without cultures may separate when frozen.
Popsicles stick to the molds
Always unmold pops under warm running water to help loosen. Avoid metal molds which can cause sticking.
Yogurt oozes from popsicle molds
Don’t overfill molds, always leave about 1/4 inch of space. Yogurt will expand slightly during freezing.
Popsicles freezer burn
Use molds with tight sealing lids and remove popsicles as soon as frozen solid. Store any leftovers in airtight containers.
Storing and Serving Yogurt Popsicles
Yogurt popsicles will keep semi-frozen in the freezer for 2-3 hours before turning to liquid. For longer storage:
- Wrap each popsicle tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped pops in airtight freezer bags or containers.
- Store yogurt popsicles up to 2 months at 0°F.
For best results, consume yogurt popsicles within 1-2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
When ready to eat, unwrap frozen yogurt pops and let sit at room temperature 5 minutes to soften slightly. Enjoy these nutritious and refreshing homemade treats!
Benefits of Yogurt Popsicles
Yogurt popsicles offer many advantages over commercial varieties:
1. More Nutritious
Homemade yogurt pops provide protein, calcium, vitamins, and probiotics not found in sugary store-bought pops.
2. Healthier Ingredients
You control what goes into yogurt pops like fresh fruit vs. artificial colors and sweeteners.
3. Endless Flavor Options
Jazz up plain yogurt with any flavors like berries, chocolate, caramel, or spices.
4. Fun Treat for Kids
Yogurt pops are a healthier alternative kids love. Sneak in veggies like pureed spinach!
5. Probiotic Boost
Active yogurt cultures provide digestive and immune boosting probiotics.
6. Easy to Make
Just whisk, pour into molds, freeze, and enjoy! No special equipment required.
Conclusion
Yogurt popsicles are a delicious and healthy homemade treat perfect for summer. Almost any type of yogurt containing live active cultures can be frozen into creamy ice pops. Thick Greek yogurts result in an especially luscious texture.
Flavor yogurt with fresh fruit, juices, nut butters, cinnamon, honey, and more before freezing in molds. Freeze 6-8 hours until completely solid. Add mix-ins like berries, coconut, chocolate chips, or nuts for fun new flavors.
Yogurt pops provide nutritious protein, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics lacking in store-bought varieties. They are easy to make at home using basic ingredients. Freeze up batches for kids and adults to enjoy all season long!