Popsicles are a frozen dessert made by freezing liquids around a stick. Frank Epperson invented the first ice pop in 1905 and patented it in 1924, calling it Popsicle. There are now hundreds of flavors and varieties, including sugar-free and adult-oriented options. Popsicles can be made at home using molds or ice cube trays.
Popsicles are a frozen dessert that is eaten from a stick. Popsicles are made by freezing liquids such as water or juice around a wooden stick that protrudes from the center and serves as a handle. As the liquid freezes, the ice will stick to the stick. Professionally made popsicles usually contain corn syrup, liquid sugar, and various colors of coloring and flavoring.
Frank Epperson is credited with inventing the first ice pop. Epperson was 11 years old in 1905 when he accidentally left a cup of water and soda powder outside with a stir stick. During the night, the mixture froze. As Epperson removed his treat from the cup, he was surprised at how intact the mold remained on the stick. He consumed his accidental surprise on the spot, creating the first known ice pop.
Epperson decided to patent his frozen desert in 1924. He called his creation Popsicle. Epperson sold the rights to the Popsicle brand soon after, but his creation has remained popular. In fact, many people are unaware that Popsicle is a popsicle brand and not a generic name.
In the 21st century, there are hundreds of flavors and varieties of popsicles. Basic flavors like cherry, orange and grape are still around. The new ice pop spin-offs have also found their place in the frozen dessert market.
Some popsicles are made in layers. As people lick the ice, the flavor will change. Sugar-free popsicles are also being sold to accommodate a more health-conscious segment of consumers.
Fudge pops are popular spin-offs of ice pop. These popsicles contain cocoa powder and milk. Fudge pops typically taste like a cross between an ice cream pop and chocolate ice cream.
Though kids remain the primary consumer of popsicles, frozen desserts on a stick geared toward adults have made their way into grocery stores over the years. Many of these treats feature small pieces of real fruit in the ice pop. Some companies also produce a more mature line of flavors to appeal to an adult audience. Coconut, pomegranate and peach are popular flavors that are marketed to older consumers.
Popsicles can be made at home, and molds are sold in classic ice pop shapes with reusable plastic sticks. Any type of juice can be poured into the mold, then the stick component is slid into place. The mold should be left in the freezer for a few hours, then the homemade popsicles will be ready to enjoy. Simple pops can be made using just an ice cube tray, a juice shaped drink, and toothpicks. Although ice cube tray pop-ups are small and can be a little messy, this easy-to-do project can be fun for kids.
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