Summer is synonymous with the simple joy of a cold, refreshing ice pop. But store-bought versions are often loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. The solution? Making your own at home with novelty ice pop molds. This allows for complete control over what goes into your treats, from fresh fruit purees to healthy yogurt blends.
Beyond just being a healthier option, creating homemade popsicles is a fantastic activity for the whole family. The right mold can turn this process into a creative adventure, producing frozen delights in fun shapes and sizes that are as exciting to look at as they are to eat. We’ve rounded up the best novelty molds to make your summer snacking both fun and delicious.
Our Top Picks for Novelty Ice Pop Molds
- ZOKU – Mini Pop Molds, 9 Miniature Popsicle Molds
- Tovolo Stackable Popsicle Molds with Sticks, 4-Pack
- ZOKU Space Ice Pop Molds, 6 Rocket and Astronaut-shaped
- WMKGG Mini Cartoon Silicone Popsicle Molds for Kids
- Norpro 423 Frozen Ice Pop Maker with 24 Wooden Sticks
- Dyna-Living Commercial Popsicle Molds 20PCS
- 3 PCs Silicone Chocolate Molds – Building Brick Mold
- Ice Lolly Pop Mold Popsicle Maker with Straw
- Miaowoof Homemade Popsicle Molds, 10-Cav Non-BPA
- Gourmia GPM3000 Electric Popsicle Maker
ZOKU Mini Pop Molds
Perfect for small hands or for those who just want a quick, bite-sized treat, the ZOKU Mini Pop Molds create nine miniature popsicles at once. Each pop holds about 0.6 fluid ounces, making them an ideal portion for a light, refreshing snack without the commitment of a full-sized pop. The compact design is great for fitting into a crowded freezer.
These molds are designed for maximum convenience. Made from easy-release BPA-free silicone, you can simply pull the mini pops out without the need to run the tray under warm water or invert it. Each mold comes with its own stick that features a built-in drip guard, helping to keep hands clean and minimize mess during enjoyment.
Tovolo Stackable Popsicle Molds
Add a touch of celestial magic to your frozen treats with the Tovolo Star Shaped Popsicle Molds. This set of four molds creates beautifully shaped star pops that are sure to be a hit with kids. The design is not only fun but also practical, featuring easy-grip handles and built-in drip guards for a cleaner eating experience.
Functionality is a key strength of these molds. Their stackable design is a major space-saver in the freezer. The process is straightforward: fill the BPA-free silicone molds, insert the sticks, cover with the included lid, and freeze. They work well with a wide variety of ingredients, from simple fruit juices to layered yogurt creations.
ZOKU Space Ice Pop Molds
Blast off into a world of frozen fun with the ZOKU Space Ice Pop Molds. This set includes six different molds in one tray, creating a fleet of rocket ships and a friendly astronaut. The variety allows for a fun assortment of shapes, with each pop holding between 1.2 and 2.2 fluid ounces.
These molds offer versatility beyond just ice pops. The BPA-free construction is also perfect for making homemade lollipops using melted chocolate or candy melts. Releasing the pops is easy; the silicone astronaut mold allows for a simple pull, while the polypropylene rocket molds may need a quick run under warm water. Each pop comes with a stick and drip guard for tidy snacking.
WMKGG Mini Cartoon Silicone Popsicle Molds
This set brings a parade of fun to your freezer with eight distinct cartoon shapes, including rockets, dinosaurs, cars, and ships. The BPA-free food-grade silicone is safe for creating treats and ensures easy release of the frozen pops. Each set includes two bases for making a batch of these charming mini popsicles.
Designed with practicality in mind, these mini molds are stackable to conserve valuable freezer space. An included lid helps to prevent leaks and protects your creations from absorbing other odors in the freezer. This makes them a great option for preparing snacks in advance for parties or lunchboxes.
Norpro Frozen Ice Pop Maker
For those who prefer the classic ice pop shape and a larger serving size, the Norpro Ice Pop Maker is a reliable choice. This BPA-free mold creates ten substantial pops, each holding approximately three ounces. Its straightforward design has been a favorite for years, focusing on function over fancy shapes.
This mold provides the freedom to make custom frozen treats using any ingredient combination you can imagine. From fruit juices and yogurt purees to pudding and whipped cream, the possibilities are nearly endless. It’s an excellent tool for creating healthier alternatives to store-bought pops without unwanted chemicals or added sugar.
Dyna-Living Commercial Popsicle Molds
If you’re looking to produce ice pops in larger quantities, perhaps for a party or a small business, the Dyna-Living set is a professional-grade option. This kit includes 20 individual round-head stainless steel molds, offering a significant capacity for batch preparation. The single cup capacity is 85ml, perfect for a standard-sized treat.
Constructed from food-grade 304 stainless steel, these molds are built for durability and performance. The metal construction allows for faster freezing times compared to plastic or silicone. A key feature is the easy-cleaning design; the smooth, welded interior has no crevices, and the pops can be released by soaking the mold in water for a few minutes.
Building Brick Silicone Molds
For the ultimate in creative novelty, these Building Brick Silicone Molds are a fantastic choice. The set of three molds allows you to create ice pops, chocolates, or gummy treats in the shape of interlocking bricks. This opens up a world of possibility for building edible structures or simply serving fun, block-shaped snacks.
Made from flexible, food-grade silicone, these molds are not just for frozen treats. They are equally effective for making chocolates, jelly candies, and even soap. The non-stick material ensures a clean release, and the molds can withstand a wide temperature range, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen or craft room.
Ice Lolly Pop Mold with Straw
This mold offers a unique twist on the traditional ice pop by incorporating a straw directly into the design. The concept is simple and convenient: just fill the BPA-free plastic mold with your chosen ingredients and place it in the freezer. The integrated straw adds an extra element of fun for kids.
Its versatility is a major benefit, as it works well with a wide array of liquids like juices, smoothies, and yogurt drinks. The straightforward design makes it very easy to use, requiring no complex assembly. It’s a great option for creating quick, healthy snacks with minimal fuss.
Miaowoof Homemade Popsicle Molds
This comprehensive kit is ideal for anyone serious about making ice pops at home. The Miaowoof set includes a 10-cavity silicone mold and a wealth of accessories, including 50 disposable sticks, 50 bags, 10 reusable sticks, a funnel, and a brush. This dual-purpose design lets you choose between reusable sticks for family use or disposable bags for parties.
The high-quality BPA-free silicone ensures that your ice pops are safe and easy to remove; you can often just peel the mold back instead of wrestling with it. The included funnel is a thoughtful addition that helps with filling the molds neatly, reducing spills and waste.
Gourmia GPM3000 Electric Popsicle Maker
For the fastest results imaginable, the Gourmia Electric Popsicle Maker is in a category of its own. This appliance uses a rapid-freeze technology to create ice pops in as little as 5 to 10 minutes, bypassing the traditional hours-long wait in the freezer. It’s perfect for instant gratification or for making a quick batch of treats with friends.
This machine typically comes with its own set of reusable molds and sticks designed specifically for the unit. You simply prepare your liquid mixture, pour it into the molds, and let the machine do its work. It’s a modern, high-tech approach to a classic summer treat that emphasizes speed and convenience above all else.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Novelty Ice Pop Molds for Summer
When I’m looking for the best novelty ice pop molds for summer, my first stop is always the material. I want something that is durable, easy to clean, and free from harmful chemicals like BPA. Silicone molds are my personal favorite because they are flexible, making it a breeze to pop out frozen treats without a struggle. Hard plastic molds are also common and often come in intricate shapes, but I make sure they are BPA-free. Stainless steel bases can help with faster freezing, which is a nice bonus when you have impatient kids (or let’s be honest, when I’m impatient myself).
Next, I think about the shape and theme. This is the “novelty” part, after all! From rockets and dinosaurs to unicorns and cartoon characters, the options are endless. I consider who I’m making these for. My niece loves anything mermaid-themed, while my nephew is all about pirates. Some molds even create ice pops with multiple colors or layers, which adds an extra fun element. The level of detail is important too; highly detailed shapes are impressive but can sometimes be a bit more difficult to unmold cleanly.
The lid and stick mechanism is a small detail that makes a huge difference in my experience. I look for lids that are completely leak-proof. There’s nothing worse than picking up a tray from the freezer to find sticky, colorful liquid has leaked all over the shelf. Integrated sticks are fantastic for younger children because there’s no risk of poking themselves with a separate stick. For molds that use separate sticks, I check that the lid holds them securely in place and at a consistent depth. A good seal also prevents freezer odors from getting into my ice pops.
Finally, I consider capacity and storage. How many ice pops does the mold make at once? For a family, a set that makes six or more is ideal. I also look at how the molds stack in my freezer. Slim, rectangular designs are much easier to store than bulky, irregular shapes. Ease of cleaning is the last box I tick. I always check if the molds are dishwasher safe, because after a long summer day, the last thing I want to do is hand-wash intricate little crevices. By focusing on material, design, functionality, and convenience, I can find a set that will bring joy all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my ice pops out of the mold without breaking them?
This is the most common problem I face! The easiest method is to run the outside of the mold under warm water for just 10-20 seconds. You don’t want to melt the pop, just loosen the outer layer. If you’re using a silicone mold, you can often gently push from the bottom to help release it. For stubborn plastic molds, I sometimes take a butter knife and very carefully run it along the edge to break the seal. Letting the pops sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes can also do the trick.
What can I use besides juice to fill my novelty ice pop molds?
The possibilities are nearly endless, which is part of the fun. I often use yogurt mixed with blended fruit for a creamy, protein-packed treat. Another favorite is blending ripe bananas with a little peanut butter and cocoa powder for a healthy “fudge” pop. You can even use pudding, coconut milk, or applesauce. For a more adult-oriented pop, I’ve used coffee or smoothies. Chunks of real fruit are a great addition for texture, but I make sure they are small enough to fit into the mold’s details.
Why did my ice pop come out with a weird, icy texture?
A coarse, icy texture usually means the mixture lacked something to bind the water molecules. Using straight juice or water will almost always result in a hard, icy pop. To get a smoother, softer texture, I add ingredients with natural sugars, fat, or fiber. This is where yogurt, blended whole fruits (like mango or banana), or a touch of honey or agave syrup come in handy. They interfere with the formation of large ice crystals, giving you that classic, enjoyable ice pop consistency.
How far in advance can I make ice pops?
You can make them quite far in advance! When stored properly in an airtight container or if your mold has a tight-fitting lid, homemade ice pops will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. After that, they might start to develop freezer burn, which affects the taste and texture. I like to make a big batch on the weekend so I have a ready-to-go supply of the best novelty ice pop molds for summer treats all week long.
Are novelty ice pop molds safe for children?
Generally, yes, but you need to check a few things. First, always confirm the mold is made from food-grade, BPA-free materials. Second, consider the age of the child. Molds with integrated sticks or blunt, rounded sticks are much safer for toddlers, eliminating any sharp points. Always supervise young children while they are eating any frozen treat to prevent choking hazards, especially if you’ve added small pieces of fruit.
Can I use these molds to make frozen treats other than ice pops?
Absolutely, I use mine for all sorts of things. They are perfect for creating fun-shaped frozen yogurt bites or “pupsicles” for dogs (using dog-safe ingredients like plain yogurt and peanut butter without xylitol). I’ve also used them to make frozen coffee cubes for my iced coffee and even to create colorful, shaped ice cubes for parties. Just be sure to clean them thoroughly between different uses to avoid flavor transfer.