Making these fudge pops with my 3-year-old was an absolute delight. This recipe is simple, fun, and yields delicious results that the whole family will love. The rich, chocolatey taste and creamy texture make these popsicles a perfect summer treat. Here’s how you can make them at home!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (I used special dark cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 marshmallows
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Mix well to ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk to the dry mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This will help create a smooth base for the fudge pops.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan on medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add Marshmallows and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the marshmallows and vanilla extract. Stir until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Cool the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to pour into the popsicle molds without melting them.
- Pour into Molds: Carefully pour the cooled mixture into popsicle molds. Tap the molds gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer and allow the fudge pops to freeze completely, which should take about 4-6 hours.
- Enjoy: Once frozen, remove the popsicles from the molds and enjoy your homemade fudge pops! They taste just like brownies and are perfect for a hot summer day.
Why You’ll Love These Fudge Pops:
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is easy enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity.
- Rich and Chocolatey: The special dark cocoa powder gives these pops a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- Creamy Texture: The marshmallows add a creamy texture that makes these popsicles extra indulgent.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
- No-Bake: No need to turn on the oven in the summer heat!
- Customizable: You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for added fun.
- Portable Treat: Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Healthy Twist: You can substitute the sugar with a healthier alternative like honey or maple syrup.
- Perfect for Hot Days: These fudge pops are incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy them all week long.
Tips for Making the Best Fudge Pops:
- Stir Constantly: When heating the mixture, make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning or sticking.
- Cool Properly: Let the mixture cool for the full 10 minutes to prevent the popsicle molds from warping.
- Remove Air Bubbles: Tapping the molds gently on the counter helps remove any trapped air bubbles, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract for the best flavor.
How to Store:
- In the Freezer: Keep the fudge pops in their molds or transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
- Preventing Freezer Burn: Wrap each popsicle individually in plastic wrap or wax paper before placing them in a container to prevent freezer burn and keep them fresh.
