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This Creamsicle Slushy captures the bright nostalgia of the beloved summer popsicle but skips the artificial stuff in favor of real orange juice and creamy yogurt This is what I whip up when the kids need a poolside treat or I want something cool that feels a little special but not overly sweet
I mixed up my first batch for a backyard playdate and everyone ended up with orange mustaches and lots of giggles – now it is our go-to after-school snack whenever a heatwave hits
Ingredients
- Orange juice: look for 100 percent juice with no added sugar or pulp that is too thick freshly squeezed tastes best if you have it
- Vanilla bean yogurt: choose Greek or regular plain works too but vanilla truly makes it taste like a creamsicle try for yogurt with live active cultures for better texture
- Honey: adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the orange flavor local honey will give a nice floral note
- If you want the slushy effect chill your glasses ahead and make sure your juice cubes are rock hard cold
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Freeze the Juice:
- Pour one and one third cups of orange juice into an ice cube tray and freeze for about three hours Make sure the cubes are fully solid before using which ensures the best slushy texture
- Blend it All Together:
- Pop the orange juice cubes out of the tray and transfer them to your blender Add the remaining one third cup orange juice the vanilla bean yogurt and the honey Blend on high until everything is smooth and creamy Scrap down the sides as needed to catch any chunks
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pour the thick frosty mixture into cold glasses for the most refreshing experience Drink immediately for best texture or pop in the freezer for a few minutes if you like it even thicker
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My favorite part has always been how the frozen orange cubes turn the slushy so frosty After blending even the grown ups in my family compete for the tallest glass
Storage tips
If you want to make this ahead pour the blended slushy into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one hour before serving Do not leave too long or it gets icy Let it stand at room temperature for a few minutes and stir to restore a smooth texture
Ingredient substitutions
Swap out the honey for agave maple syrup or even a little stevia for a vegan option Greek style coconut yogurt works well if you want dairy free Almond milk yogurt is another good choice but keep flavors mild so the orange really shines
Serving suggestions
Serve each glass with a few slices of fresh orange or a dollop of extra yogurt for a creamy swirl The grown up version with a splash of vodka or rum is simple and really delicious at summer BBQs or brunches
Cultural context
Creamsicles have been a classic treat in the United States for almost a century The flavor comes from combining tangy citrus with creamy vanilla just like the childhood popsicle This drinkable version takes the best parts and makes it wholesome enough for breakfast or snack time
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I get the creamiest texture?
Using frozen orange juice cubes and Greek or plain vanilla bean yogurt ensures a smooth, thick finish when blended thoroughly.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the yogurt with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut or almond-based yogurt, for a lactose-free option.
- → Is there a way to lower the sweetness?
You can reduce or omit the honey, especially if your orange juice is already sweetened, for a more tart profile.
- → How can I turn this into an adult drink?
A splash of vodka or rum blended with the other ingredients makes a refreshing, boozy slushy perfect for warm evenings.
- → How long do the orange juice cubes take to freeze?
Generally, the cubes reach a solid frozen state in about three hours, depending on your freezer's setting and the size of the cubes.
- → Can I use other types of yogurt?
Yes, plain, Greek, or even flavored yogurts can work, but choose vanilla or similar for the most authentic taste.