Root Beer Vanilla Ice Pops

Root beer popsicles take me straight back to lazy summer afternoons when the best treat was something cold and surprisingly simple to make. These creamy pops are just the thing for a nostalgic twist on the classic root beer float frozen into a handheld dessert. If you love easy frozen treats and want a playful dessert you can prep in minutes, these are about to be your new favorite.

This recipe saved me one blistering July when I was desperate to entertain my kids during a heat wave. They now ask for these all summer long and I am always happy to oblige.

Ingredients

• Root beer: Select your favorite brand for flavor you love most Choose a version without caffeine if you prefer
• Vanilla ice cream: Full fat varieties give the richest flavor Look for brands with simple ingredients for a cleaner taste
• Note: A good quality root beer really does make a difference and I always use a classic creamy vanilla ice cream not one with a lot of stabilizers

Instructions

Chill the Root Beer:

Open the root beer and pour it into a large measuring cup or bowl. Place it in the fridge uncovered for about two hours. This not only chills the soda but lets most of the bubbles fade away so you will not have foamy popsicles.

Soften the Ice Cream:

Scoop your vanilla ice cream into a medium mixing bowl and let it sit on the counter just until it starts to soften and becomes easy to stir

Whisk Together:

Add the flat root beer to the melted ice cream. Whisk slowly until the mixture is totally smooth with no chunks or lumps. The texture should look creamy and even.

Fill the Molds:

Carefully pour the mixture into your popsicle molds dividing it as evenly as possible. To fill without spills a spouted pitcher helps. Insert sticks into each mold.

Freeze:

Place molds in the freezer and freeze for at least four hours until pops are fully solid. For the best results let them freeze overnight.

Unmold and Enjoy:

Run the molds quickly under hot water to help release the popsicles. Gently pull out and serve immediately. Keep any extras frozen until you are ready to eat.

Every time I make these pops I remember my dad surprising us with root beer floats on weekends The creamy vanilla and caramel flavors always bring back those memories

Storage Tips

Once frozen remove popsicles and transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Layer them between sheets of parchment or wax paper to keep them from sticking together. Homemade popsicles stay fresh for up to two months in the freezer and they are perfect for grab and go snacks.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use dairy free vanilla ice cream if you want a vegan treat. Coconut based ice creams work especially well for creamy texture. Try different soda flavors like cream soda or even orange soda for a creamsicle style pop. For a twist stir a tiny splash of vanilla extract into the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your root beer popsicles straight from the freezer for classic enjoyment. For parties try rolling them in sprinkles or dipping the tips in melted chocolate for a fancier finish. Sometimes I use mini molds for bite size pops that are perfect for little hands.

Cultural and Historical Context

Root beer floats are an old fashioned soda shop treat that date back more than a century. Turning that nostalgic float into a popsicle honors those classic soda fountain flavors but with a fun modern update. In my family these pops have become a tradition every summer since the first batch I made for a backyard barbecue.

Seasonal Adaptations

This recipe is ideal for summer and hot weather Try adding a spoonful of crushed cookies for texture Use pumpkin spice ice cream in autumn for a unique twist

Success Stories

Friends love these pops and always ask for the recipe. My kids even took a batch to school for their end of year party and the teachers begged for extras. Neighbors often stop by just to see if I have any root beer popsicles stashed away in the freezer.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Double or even triple the recipe if you have extra molds. Once frozen you can store individual pops so you always have a ready made dessert for guests or last minute cravings. They hold up wonderfully for weeks.

Let your imagination run wild with flavors and toppings. These pops are pure summer fun in a stick and guaranteed to make everyone smile.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the popsicles from being icy?

Allow the root beer to go flat before mixing, and blend thoroughly with softened ice cream for a creamier texture.

→ Can I use different ice cream flavors?

Yes, vanilla pairs best, but experimenting with chocolate or caramel ice cream can add unique twists.

→ How long should I freeze the pops?

Freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely solid for the best texture and easy removal.

→ What's the best way to release pops from molds?

Briefly run the molds under hot water to help loosen and release the frozen popsicles easily.

→ Can I make these without molds?

Yes, use small paper cups and wooden sticks as an alternative—just peel away the cup once frozen.