Gummy Bear Lemonade Popsicles Recipe – Easy Summer Treat

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Gummy Bear Lemonade Popsicles Recipe – Easy Summer Treat

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, summer means constantly searching for ways to beat the heat. And what’s better than a cool, refreshing popsicle? I stumbled upon this recipe a few summers ago while trying to use up a bag of gummy bears my kids had left behind, and it’s been a family favorite ever since! These Gummy Bear Lemonade Popsicles are super easy to make, and honestly, they’re just fun. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seriously, who doesn’t love gummy bears? Combining them with a zesty lemonade base makes for a popsicle that’s both nostalgic and incredibly refreshing. It’s a perfect treat for kids (and adults, let’s be real!), and it requires minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those leftover gummy bears hiding in the pantry.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delightful popsicles:

• 1.5 cups (355ml) water
• 2 tablespoons (approx. 25g) sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 30 nos gummy bears

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec – a few little things that can make all the difference!

Gummy Bears: Choosing Your Favorites

This is where you can really get creative! Any gummy bear flavor will work, but a mix is always fun. My kids love using the fruit medley, but sometimes we’ll go for all-red gummies for a vibrant color.

Lemon Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for that bright, zingy flavor. But if you’re short on time, bottled lemon juice works just fine. Just make sure it’s 100% lemon juice, not a concentrate.

Sugar: Adjusting Sweetness Levels

Two tablespoons of sugar give a nice balance, but feel free to adjust it to your liking. If your gummy bears are super sweet, you might want to reduce the sugar slightly. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Water: Quality for Best Flavor

Using filtered water will give you the cleanest, purest flavor. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but good quality water really does make a difference!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some popsicles! It’s seriously easy.

First, in a mixing bowl, combine the water, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir, stir, stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. You don’t want any grainy bits!

Next, fill your popsicle molds about ¾ full with those colorful gummy bears. Don’t be shy – pack ‘em in there!

Then, carefully pour the lemon juice mixture into each mold, right up to the rim.

Now, pop the lids on the molds and carefully place them in the freezer. You’ll want to freeze them for at least 6-8 hours, or until they’re completely solid. Patience is key!

Finally, to unmold, briefly run the molds under warm water for a few seconds. Gently wiggle the popsicles and they should slide right out. If they’re stubborn, run them under warm water a little longer.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make these popsicles perfect every time:

Achieving the Perfect Popsicle Texture

Don’t overfill the molds! Leaving a little space at the top allows for expansion during freezing, preventing cracking.

Preventing Ice Crystals

To minimize ice crystals, make sure the sugar is completely dissolved in the water before freezing.

Easy Removal from Molds

Running the molds under warm water is the easiest way to get the popsicles out. Don’t use hot water, as it could melt the popsicles too quickly.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Option (Using Vegan Gummy Bears)

This one’s simple! Just make sure you use vegan gummy bears. There are some great options available now. My friend, Priya, swears by the black cherry ones!

Sugar-Free Option (Using Sugar Substitute)

Swap the sugar for your favorite sugar substitute. Stevia or erythritol work well. Adjust the amount according to the package directions.

Spice Level (Adding a Hint of Ginger or Chili)

For a little kick, add a tiny pinch of ground ginger or chili powder to the lemon juice mixture. Trust me, it’s surprisingly good!

Festival Adaptations (Independence Day/Summer Party Colors)

Use red, white, and blue gummy bears for a patriotic popsicle for the 4th of July! Or, choose colors to match your summer party theme.

Serving Suggestions

These popsicles are best served immediately. They’re perfect for a hot afternoon snack, a birthday party treat, or just a little something sweet after dinner. I love pairing them with a simple fruit salad.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in the freezer for up to a month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

How do I prevent my popsicles from being too icy?

Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved and don’t freeze them for too long.

Can I use different types of juice instead of lemonade?

Absolutely! Orange juice, pineapple juice, or even cranberry juice would be delicious.

What’s the best way to get the popsicles out of the molds?

Warm water is your friend! A quick rinse under warm water usually does the trick.

Can I add fruit pieces to these popsicles?

Definitely! Berries, chopped mango, or even small pieces of pineapple would be a great addition.

How long can I store these popsicles in the freezer?

Up to a month, but they’re best enjoyed within a week or two for optimal flavor and texture.

Enjoy making (and eating!) these Gummy Bear Lemonade Popsicles. Let me know in the comments how yours turn out!