As the sun hangs high in the summer sky, I find myself daydreaming of indulgent treats that not only cool me down but also give me my caffeine fix. That’s how these delightful Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles came about—a perfect fusion of creamy coconut milk, rich coffee, and a drizzle of dark chocolate that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a fancy dessert experience!
When I first tried them, I was instantly transported to a local café, sipping my favorite cold brew but with the added joy of a frozen twist. Whipping these up is a breeze, taking just 10 minutes of active time in the kitchen to blend and freeze. Ideal for those who crave a little excitement in their snack routine without the hassle of baking, these popsicles are not only a sweet escape from fast food boredom but also a versatile way to embrace summer flavors.
Let’s dive into this easy yet scrumptious recipe that promises to impress family and friends alike!
Why Choose Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles?
Effortless Creation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can whip up these delightful treats, making them perfect for even the busiest days.
Smooth and Creamy: The combination of coconut milk and cold brew coffee offers a luxuriously creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Using pure maple syrup and dark chocolate, these popsicles provide a sweet treat without the excess sugar typical in store-bought options.
Versatile Flavor: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or mix-ins for a unique twist every time.
Family Favorite: A hit among both kids and adults, these popsicles are a delightful way to enjoy a caffeine boost while staying cool this summer.
If you’re curious about other refreshing snacks, check out my guide on creating perfect homemade ice creams and popsicles for all occasions!
Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicle Ingredients
For the Popsicle Base
• Cold brew coffee – 12 ounces of cold brew coffee brings a rich, smooth caffeine boost to these popsicles.
• Full fat coconut milk – 14 ounces of creamy coconut milk creates a luscious texture perfect for a frozen treat.
• Pure maple syrup – 1/4 cup adds natural sweetness and a subtle flavor that complements the coffee beautifully.
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons infuse a warm vanilla aroma into each bite, enhancing the overall taste.
For the Topping
• Dark chocolate chips – 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips transforms these Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles into a decadent delight with an irresistible drizzle.
How to Make Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles
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Blend all ingredients except the dark chocolate together until smooth. This will create a luxurious and creamy mixture, combining the rich coffee flavor with the coconut milk and sweetness of maple syrup.
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Pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds, filling each mold to about 3/4 full. Insert the popsicle sticks and then freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best results.
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Remove the frozen popsicles gently from the molds. If needed, run warm water over the outside of the molds for easier release.
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Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the frozen popsicles while they are on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then, return them to the freezer briefly to let the chocolate harden.
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Store the finished popsicles in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container to keep them fresh and ready for your enjoyment.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle for a gourmet twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles
Fridge: Keep your popsicles in the fridge for up to 3 days if you’re in a hurry, although they are best stored in the freezer for long-term enjoyment.
Freezer: Store the Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container for optimal freshness. They can last for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, remove a popsicle from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, making it easier to pull out of the mold.
Reheating: Best enjoyed frozen, but you can let them warm slightly to prevent breakage when biting into them!
Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize these popsicles with fun flavor twists and swaps that will delight your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup of almond or hazelnut milk for a nutty richness that beautifully complements the coffee flavor. This variation brings a delightful creaminess that will dance on your palate.
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Mocha Magic: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the base for a chocolatey popsicle that coffee lovers will adore. The combination of coffee and cocoa will create a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the coconut milk for almond or oat milk to make these popsicles dairy-free while still enjoying a creamy texture. A subtle nuttiness from these milks adds an extra layer of flavor!
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Spiced Sensation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm spiced flavor that enhances the vanilla essence. This twist creates a comforting aroma reminiscent of homemade desserts.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce into the popsicle mixture before freezing. As the popsicles freeze, the caramel will create delightful pockets of sweetness to surprise you with every bite.
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Fruity Fusion: Blend in 1/2 cup of ripe bananas or strawberries for a fruity explosion that pairs harmoniously with the coffee. This fruity kick will bring a fresh twist that’s perfect for summer days!
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Chili Chocolate: For those who love a kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper with your melted dark chocolate before drizzling it over the popsicles. This will add an exciting heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Cold Brew Concentrate: Use cold brew concentrate instead of regular cold brew to amp up the coffee flavor. You can dilute it with a little water before adding it to the mix for a perfectly balanced drinkable experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the popsicle base up to 24 hours in advance by blending the ingredients and pouring the mixture into molds. After freezing them overnight (at least 6 hours), they’ll be ready whenever you crave a refreshing treat. Once you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle with dark chocolate and return them to the freezer for a quick set — this ensures the chocolate hardens just right. Storing finished popsicles in a single layer in an airtight container maintains their quality, keeping them just as delicious for up to 3 days! Enjoy effortless summer snacking!
Expert Tips for Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles
Blend Until Smooth: Make sure your mixture is fully blended; lumps can affect the popsicle texture. A smooth blend ensures delightful bites!
Mold Care: Grease the popsicle molds lightly with coconut oil to avoid sticking, making it easier to remove your Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles later.
Chocolate Drizzle: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the topping; it enhances the flavor and adds a touch of elegance to your popsicles.
Freezing Time: Don’t rush the freezing! Allow the popsicles to freeze for a minimum of 6 hours or overnight to ensure they hold their shape.
Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or even a splash of coffee liqueur for a grown-up twist on your Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles.
What to Serve with Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles?
As you savor these delightful popsicles, consider pairing them with a few enchanting accompaniments that elevate your warm-weather experience.
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Crunchy Granola: The delightful crunch of granola adds texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the popsicles. Pair them for a sweet breakfast or afternoon snack.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the coconut milk and coffee. Their natural sweetness enhances the tropical flavors.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of coconut or Greek yogurt serves as a refreshing dip for your popsicles, creating a luscious treat with added protein. This combination makes for a balanced dessert.
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Mint Tea: A chilled glass of mint tea can cleanse the palate between bites, providing a refreshing herbal note that complements the flavors of the popsicles. The mint also brings a summer vibe to your snack.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a playful dessert combo, pair your popsicles with chewy chocolate chip cookies. The rich chocolate in both treats makes for a delicious match, satisfying any sweet tooth.
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Iced Latte: To enhance your coffee experience, sip on a cold iced latte. The creaminess of the milk and coffee pairs nicely with the popsicles, amplifying the delightful caffeine fix.
Embrace these pairings during warm afternoons, and transform your snacking into a delightful mini-feast!
Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles Recipe FAQs
What type of coffee is best for the popsicles?
Absolutely, using a good quality cold brew coffee will make a significant difference in flavor. Look for a cold brew with rich, bold notes, as this will enhance the overall taste of your Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles. You could also experiment with flavored cold brews for an interesting twist!
How should I store the popsicles after making them?
To keep your Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles fresh, store them in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label and date the bag for easy access!
Can I freeze these popsicles before they’re completely set?
Very! If you’re short on time, you can freeze the popsicles while they’re partially set. Just remember they may not be as firm once frozen. To properly freeze, allow them to set for at least 6 hours or overnight.
What should I do if my popsicles won’t come out of the molds?
Don’t worry! If your Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles are stubborn, simply run warm water over the outside of the molds for about 30 seconds to loosen them up. If that doesn’t work, gently wiggle the popsicle stick until they budge; they should pop out without too much trouble.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! These popsicles are dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk, making them suitable for those avoiding dairy. However, be cautious with allergies. If you or anyone you’re serving has nut allergies, check the maple syrup and chocolate packaging for processing information to avoid cross-contamination. Also, ensure that the dark chocolate chips are dairy-free if needed.
How can I customize the flavors in this recipe?
Very much! You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for warmth or a splash of coffee liqueur for a spirited adult version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating other flavors like almond extract or a dollop of peanut butter for something unique. Simply blend in your chosen ingredient with the other items before pouring them into the molds.
Cool Down with Rich Vanilla Cold Brew Coffee Popsicles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend all ingredients except the dark chocolate together until smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds, filling each mold to about 3/4 full.
- Insert the popsicle sticks and then freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Remove the frozen popsicles gently from the molds. If needed, run warm water over the outside of the molds.
- Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the frozen popsicles and return them to the freezer to let the chocolate harden.
- Store the finished popsicles in a freezer bag or airtight container.