As soon as the weather gets warmer my kids start asking for Mr.Freezies and popsicles. My kids are also super active and sweat a lot when outside playing, so I am always torn between wanting them to have something cool and refreshing and not wanting them loaded up on sugar (especially my younger who can eat 3-5 at a time).
So I have the continual search for healthy options. I tried buying juice and pouring it in moulds, making smoothies, and a bunch of concoctions which meet with some approval but never totally had kids asking for more. Then I found this recipe from Super Healthy Kids site. I think the difference is the Chia gives them a bulkier texture rather than just juice when they melt … that and my kids love strawberries and mango too!
Of course you can also try the recipe with a bunch of other flavors of berries too.. it really depends on how creative you get and what your kids will eat!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup – strawberries
- 1 1/4 cup – coconut water (I have used regular water and even cucumber or lemon water)
- 1 teaspoon – honey (I have replaced with maple syrup or agave)
- 4 teaspoon – chia seeds
- 1 1/2 cup pieces – mango
photo from: http://www.superhealthykids.com
Directions
- Puree strawberries (fresh or frozen) with half of the coconut water in a blender or food processor. Taste the mixture and blend in honey to desired sweetness, if needed. Stir in 2 teaspoons of chia seeds. Set aside.
- Puree mango (fresh or frozen) with the other half of the coconut water in a blender or food processor. Taste the mixture and blend in honey to desired sweetness, if needed. Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chia seeds.
- Alternately pour each fruit mixture (for a marbled look) into popsicle molds and freeze until set.
- Makes 10 (3 ounce) popsicles.
- I have also mixed everything together at one time and the kids loved it!
For a huge list of recipes for healthy frozen treats, with something for even the pickiest of eaters, check out: http://www.superhealthykids.com/recipe-category/popsicles-and-frozen-treats/
