If your kids are like mine, they absolutely LOVE popsicles! These refreshing treats are a staple during the summer months, offering a perfect way to cool down. But have you ever considered making your own popsicles at home? It’s surprisingly easy, and you can make them even healthier by incorporating kid-friendly herbal infusions.
Why Make Your Own Popsicles?
Homemade popsicles are not only fun to make but also provide a great way to ensure your kids are consuming healthy ingredients. By using herbal infusions, you can sneak in some extra health benefits while keeping the treat delicious and refreshing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Herbal Popsicles
Choose Your Herbs: Start by selecting your herbs. You can use either tea bags or loose-leaf herbs. Some great kid-friendly options include lemon balm, chamomile, orange peel, hibiscus, and elderflower.
Steep the Herbs: Steep your chosen herbs in hot water. The steeping time can range from 20 minutes to 3 hours, depending on how strong you want the infusion to be. Once done, strain out the herbs.
Prepare the Popsicles: Pour the herbal infusion into popsicle molds. You can also blend fruits with the infusion if you want to add more flavor and nutrition. See below for my favorite fruit and herb combos. Insert popsicle sticks into the molds.
Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer for 4-6 hours, or until fully frozen.
Enjoy: Once the popsicles are frozen solid, they are ready to enjoy!
Favorite Herbal Infusions and Fruit Pairings
Here are some of my favorite herbal infusions and the fruits that pair well with them:
Lemon Balm: Known for its calming effects and ability to soothe the tummy. Pair with strawberry or raspberry puree for a delightful flavor combination.
Chamomile: This herb is great for calming and can help with stomach aches and fevers. Pair it with apple or pear for a sweet and soothing treat.
Orange Peel: Rich in vitamin C and excellent for boosting the immune system. It pairs wonderfully with blueberries or blackberries.
Hibiscus: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, hibiscus supports the immune system. Pair with pineapple or mango for a tropical twist.
Elderflower: Known for its anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. Pair with peach or nectarine for a delicious and health-boosting popsicle.
Safety Tips
While the herbs listed here are generally safe for kids, it’s always important to do your research when trying new herbs. Make sure they are appropriate for your child’s age and health needs.
Conclusion
Making your own herbal popsicles is a fantastic way to provide your kids with a healthy, fun treat during the summer. By incorporating these kid-friendly herbal infusions, you can boost their health while keeping them happy and refreshed. Give these recipes a try, and enjoy a summer filled with delicious and nutritious popsicles!
Happy Summer!
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