If you’re wondering how long it takes for popsicles to freeze, the answer depends on a few factors.
In this article, we’ll discuss how the size of your popsicle, the ingredients used, and the temperature of your freezer all affect the length of time it takes for popsicles to freeze properly.
Keep on reading to learn more.
How Long Do Homemade Popsicles Take to Freeze?
Homemade popsicles will take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours to freeze completely. The amount of time required for the popsicle to freeze depends on the ingredients used, as well as the type, size and shape of the popsicle mold.
Below is a general guide on how long it takes for different types of popsicles to freeze:
| Type of Popsicle | Freezing Time |
|---|---|
| Juice | 4-8 Hours |
| Fruit | 4-6 Hours |
| Smoothie | 4-8 Hours |
| Yogurt | 3-8 Hours |
| Alcohol (Boozy Pops) | 6-8 Hours |
How to Freeze Popsicles Faster?
If you are planning to make popsicles at home, but don’t necessarily want to wait 2 to 8 hours for them to freeze, there are a couple of things you can do to speed up the process.
Use Stainless Steel Popsicle Molds
If you want to speed things up, you can make your popsicles using stainless steel molds instead of plastic molds. This is because the metal conducts heat better than plastic. You will find that your popsicles could freeze in half the time (depends on the ingredients) if you use stainless steel molds.
Use Smaller Popsicle Molds
Smaller popsicle molds will also freeze popsicles faster than larger ones. There is less surface area for the popsicle mixture to freeze, so they will harden quicker. The only downside to this is that you will have smaller treats to enjoy.
How to Tell When Popsicles Are Fully Frozen?
There are a couple of ways to tell if your popsicles have frozen fully, especially if they’ve been in the freezer for some time.
Here are some of the more common methods.
Feel The Molds
Feeling the mold is the most common way to tell if popsicles are frozen. Gently touch the popsicle mold in various places and feel for any give. If it’s still pliable, then it needs more time in the freezer.
Play With the Popsicle Stick
If your popsicle has a stick, try wiggling it around a bit. Once it’s frozen all the way through, the stick should not move.
You will find that popsicles that are only partially frozen, the stick will be easy to move around.
Insert a Toothpick
If you’re unsure whether or not your popsicle is frozen, you can insert a toothpick into it. Once the toothpick comes out clean, then it’s frozen all the way through. If you do not have a toothpick, you can use a knife.
3 Reasons Why Is My Popsicles Taking So Long to Harden?
If you find that your popsicles are taking a long time to freeze, there could be a few different reasons why.
Ingredients
The ingredients you use in your popsicle can affect how long it takes to freeze. If you’re using fresh fruit or juice, for example, these will take longer to freeze than if you’re using frozen fruit or store-bought juice.
This is due to the water content in fresh fruit and juice. Water has a higher freezing point than other ingredients, so it will take longer for it to freeze completely.
Popsicle Size
The size of your popsicle mold can also affect how long it takes to freeze. If you’re using a large mold, then your popsicles will take longer.
Popsicle Mold Size
As we mentioned earlier, the size of your popsicle mold can also affect how long it takes to freeze. If you’re using a large mold, then you can expect your popsicles to take longer. This is because there is more surface area for the popsicle mixture to freeze.
An Overpacked Freezer
If your freezer is overpacked, this can also affect how long it takes for your popsicles to freeze. When a freezer is overpacked, the air can’t circulate properly and this can slow down the freezing process.
To fix this, you can place your popsicles on the top shelf of the freezer where they will be exposed to more cold air. You can also try removing some of the other items from your freezer to make more room.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! In general, it will take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours for popsicles to freeze completely. The most important factor is the ingredients you’re using. Popsicles that are milk based or have a high water content will take longer to freeze than those made with frozen fruit or store-bought juice.
You can also try using smaller or stainless steel molds to speed up the process. If you find that your popsicles are taking a long time to freeze, make sure that your freezer is not overpacked and that the popsicles are placed on the top shelf.
I hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you!
