Description
These Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Ice Pops are a creamy, refreshing dessert perfect for summer. Combining tangy cream cheese and Greek yogurt with fresh strawberries, honey, and a hint of vanilla, these frozen treats offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. With an optional graham cracker crust layer, they mimic the classic cheesecake texture in a fun, portable form.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Swirl
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Optional
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries and sugar. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and become syrupy. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and whole milk. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Layer the Pops: Spoon a layer of the cheesecake mixture into each ice pop mold, then add a spoonful of the cooled strawberry mixture. Continue layering and use a skewer or knife to swirl and create a marbled effect until the molds are filled.
- Add Graham Crackers and Insert Sticks: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers into the bottom of the molds if using, then insert the ice pop sticks carefully in the center of each mold.
- Freeze: Place molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 6 hours or until fully set.
- Release and Serve: To remove the pops from the molds, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds to loosen them. Gently pull the pops out and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a berry mix for different flavors.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt, cream cheese alternatives, and plant-based milk.
- Ensure the strawberry mixture is completely cooled before layering to maintain the swirl effect and texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and whole milk for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ice pop
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
