Why You’ll Love this Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops Recipe
If you’re looking for a rejuvenating treat that embodies the essence of summer, you’ll adore this Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops recipe.
These pops are the perfect blend of sweet strawberries, zesty lime, and a hint of tequila, making them a delightful adult indulgence.
Each bite transports me to sun-soaked days, where the vibrant flavors burst in my mouth, invigorating me instantly.
They’re not just tasty; they’re fun to make and share at gatherings, too.
Plus, they’re a fantastic way to cool off on a hot day.
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops
When it comes to making Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops, the ingredients are what truly set the mood for this invigorating treat. You’ll want to gather everything in advance, so you can dive right into the fun of mixing and freezing.
Just imagine the sweet scent of strawberries mixing with zesty lime and a splash of tequila – it’s like a summer party in your kitchen. So, let’s check out what you need to whip up these delightful popsicles.
Ingredients for Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops:
- 3 cups strawberries, crushed (about 6 cups whole berries)
- 2/3 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup tequila
- 1/4 cup triple sec
- 6 cups sugar
- 3 ounces liquid fruit pectin (1 pouch)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Now, before you run off to the store, here are a couple of things to keep in mind about these ingredients.
First, fresh strawberries are a must for that juicy flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen berries can work too; just thaw and crush them!
As for the tequila and triple sec, don’t worry if you’re not a margarita aficionado – you’re not going to get tipsy from a pop. The alcohol will mostly freeze out, but it adds that signature taste that makes these pops special.
And if you want to make a non-alcoholic version, just swap the booze for extra lime juice and maybe a splash of soda for some fizz.
How to Make Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops
Making Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings a taste of summer right into your hands. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started. First, take 3 cups of fresh strawberries, which is about 6 cups of whole berries. You’ll want to crush those beautiful, red gems – think of it as a mini workout. You can use a fork, a potato masher, or even your hands if you’re feeling adventurous (but maybe keep the mess to a minimum).
Once you’ve got your strawberries all smashed up, toss them into a pot alongside 2/3 cup of zesty lime juice, 1/2 cup of tequila, and 1/4 cup of triple sec. It’s already smelling great, right?
Now, here comes the sweet part: add in 6 cups of sugar. Yes, you read that right, six cups. It sounds like a lot because it is, but this is what gives those pops their delightful sweetness. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, and then bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Don’t walk away during this part; you want to stir constantly because we don’t want any burnt bits ruining our pops.
Once it’s boiling, take it off the heat and add in 3 ounces of liquid fruit pectin (which is about one pouch) and 1 teaspoon of lime zest. Give it another good stir, and then pop it back on the heat, bringing it to a full rolling boil for just one minute.
Once you’ve reached that glorious boil, remove it from the heat again, and skim off any foam that might’ve formed on top – we want our pops to look as good as they taste.
Now, it’s time to ladle this fruity mixture into hot sterilized 8 oz jars. Leave a 1/4 inch of headspace at the top, and don’t forget to wipe the rims of the jars before sealing them with lids. Then, depending on your altitude, process those jars so they’re safe and sound.
After about 20 minutes of cooling, gently turn and tilt the jars to distribute the fruit evenly. Keep doing this until you feel satisfied with the distribution. And there you have it, your very own Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops, ready to freeze and enjoy!
Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops Substitutions & Variations
There are plenty of delicious ways to customize your Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
If you want a non-alcoholic treat, swap the tequila and triple sec for coconut water or sparkling water. For a twist, try blending in other fruits like mango or pineapple. You can also adjust the sweetness by using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar.
If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in some coconut milk or yogurt. Don’t forget to play with the lime zest—more or less can change the flavor profile greatly.
Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops
Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops are a revitalizing treat that pairs wonderfully with various snacks and drinks.
I love serving them alongside spicy tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a fun contrast of flavors. You can also try them with guacamole or a zesty shrimp cocktail; the coolness of the pops complements the heat perfectly.
For drinks, I often offer a rejuvenating limeade or even more margaritas to keep the party lively! If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lime adds a nice touch.
Enjoying these treats with good company makes them even better!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Strawberry Margarita Ice Pops, keep in mind a few tips to enhance your experience. First, use ripe strawberries for the best flavor—fresh is always better!
If you want a more intense lime flavor, feel free to adjust the lime juice to your liking. Don’t skip the pectin; it helps with the texture and consistency.
For a fun twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of chili powder to the mix.
Finally, let your pops freeze overnight for maximum enjoyment. Trust me, these icy treats will be a hit at your next gathering!