Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Wash your strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove the green tops (hulling) by cutting around the stem or using a strawberry huller. Cut the strawberries into quarters to make blending easier. If using frozen strawberries, let them thaw completely and use any accumulated juice in the recipe.

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

Add the prepared strawberries, honey (or your chosen sweetener), lemon juice, water, and vanilla extract (if using) to your blender. If you want to test sweetness first, taste a strawberry—if they’re very sweet, start with 3 tablespoons of honey; if they’re tart, use the full ¼ cup or more. Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth and no chunks remain. The mixture should be bright red and beautifully smooth.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

This is the secret to perfect popsicles! Taste your mixture and adjust as needed. Remember that flavors taste less intense when frozen, so it should taste slightly sweeter than you want the final popsicle to be. If it’s too tart, add more honey. If strawberry flavor isn’t strong enough, add a few more berries. If it’s too thick, add a splash more water.

Step 4: Strain (Optional)

If you want super smooth popsicles without any strawberry seeds, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large measuring cup or bowl, using a spoon to press the mixture through. Personally, I skip this step because the seeds don’t bother me and they contain fiber, but this is a matter of preference!

Step 5: Pour into Molds

If adding fresh strawberry slices for visual appeal, place a few thin slices inside each mold first. Pour the strawberry mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing. Using a measuring cup with a spout or small pitcher makes this step much easier and less messy. Tap the molds gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 6: Insert Sticks

If your molds have built-in sticks or tops, insert them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using DIY cups, cover the tops with aluminum foil and poke the sticks through the foil to hold them upright in the center. The foil keeps the sticks in place as the popsicles freeze.

Step 7: Freeze

Place the filled molds on a level surface in your freezer. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid. For best results, freeze overnight. The popsicles should be rock-solid before unmolding—if they’re still soft in the middle, give them more time.

Step 8: Unmold and Enjoy

To release popsicles from molds, run the outside of the mold under warm (not hot) water for 10-15 seconds. This slightly melts the outer layer, making them slide right out. Gently pull on the stick to remove. If using paper cups, simply peel away the paper. Enjoy immediately or wrap individually and store in the freezer!