An Inspired Cook

Have you guys been experiencing this heat wave?  It’s been in the mid 90’s to over 100 degrees for what seems like a couple weeks now.   It may be dry heat here in the Southwest but unless there is a breeze blowing by it’s just hot air.  So instead of turning on the oven we’ve been grilling and making salads or simple sandwiches to beat the heat.  We needed something cold for a boost of energy so I made popsicles.  They are a welcome treat from the afternoon heat.  I’d forgotten how easy they are to make with simple syrup, lime juice, lime zest and a little bit of alcohol that gives them that soft slushy texture.  Refreshing is the best word to describe them and they taste even better than those frozen fruit bars you buy at the store. I used to make these for the kids but I think Joe and I enjoy them just as much!

You’ll need simple syrup, lime juice, lime zest and a little bit of alcohol.  I only had vodka on hand so that’s what I’m going with.  I didn’t take pictures but to make the simple syrup you’ll need 1 part sugar to 1 part water.  Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat as the sugar melts.  Continue stirring the mixture until it begins to boil.  Let it boil for a minute or so then turn off the burner. Let the mixture cool, pour into a jar with a lid and refrigerate.  For this recipe you’ll need 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water which will make approximately 3 cups of syrup.

Mix together the lime juice, simple syrup, lime zest and vodka together in a measuring bowl or pitcher that allows you to pour.  I had to swap for a bigger pitcher as this one was to full to pour.




I used a funnel to make it easier to pour into the popsicle molds.  This will make between 12 – 18 popsicles depending on the size of your popsicle mold.  



Once you have poured the limeade mix into the molds, transfer to the freezer for 4 hours or more.




When ready to remove run warm water over the outside of the mold.  The popsicle should slide out easily.




I couldn’t help myself!




Fresh Lime Popsicles

2 cups Lime Juice (approximately 8 – 10 limes
3 cups Simple Syrup
Zest of 1 Lime
2 tablespoons Vodka

To make Simple Syrup:  Combine 2 cups of sugar with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan.  Stir the mixture over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.  Let boil for a minute more then remove from heat, let cool, pour into a jar with a lid and refrigerate.  This will make approximately 3 cups of syrup.

Combine lime juice, simple syrup, lime zest and vodka together.  Stir until well mixed.  Pour into popsicle molds, secure the caps on top and freeze 4 hours or more.  Makes 12 – 18 popsicles depending on the size of popsicle molds.