‘Ice Blocks’ are what we literal-minded Aussies call icy poles or popsicles.
They’re one of those things that are incredibly simple to make but feel high value.
Especially if you happen to have some small people in the house.
My boys love them so much I make them year round for quick after schools snacks.
Sometimes I do fruit and yoghurt but these peanut butter ones are always a crowd pleaser.
And if you’re in a chocolate mood, see the variations below.
I got my popsicle molds from Ikea for $2 when Fergal was small. Talk about a good investment.
- 100 g maple syrup or honey
- 300 g yoghurt (any kind)
- 100 g smooth peanut butter
- Combine maple syrup / honey, yoghurt and peanut butter in a jug or tall bottle. Mix until smooth (or you can leave it a bit swirly if you like).
- Pour mixture into 6 x 1/4 cup small popsicle / ice block molds.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours.
- To serve, run each mold under hot water for a 10 seconds or so to loosen.
Variations & Substitutions
chocolate – add 1-2 tablespoons cocoa powder.
chocolate chip – add a handful finely chopped chocolate chips.
sugar-free – replace maple syrup with your favourite sugar substitute
nut-free – replace the peanut butter and maple syrup with pureed fresh or cooked fruit (if your fruit isn’t super sweet you can add a little icing (powdered) sugar or some jam. Or tahini or sunflower seed butter will work.
different nuts – feel free to sub in your favourite nut butter (cashew is amazing!).
fruit based – replace maple syrup with jam or with pureed fresh or cooked fruit (if your fruit isn’t super sweet you can add a little icing (powdered) sugar. In Summer we love mango and also pineapple. Frozen raspberries are fab all year round.
dairy-free – use any dairy-free yoghurt. Or you could replace with your favourite dairy-free milk and just add a little more peanut butter to increase the richness.
lighter – these are pretty creamy and rich. Sometimes I use less yogurt and replace with water for a lighter more icy vibe (or if I’m getting low on yoghurt)
Waste Avoidance Strategy
maple syrup / honey / smooth peanut butter – keep them all in the pantry.
yoghurt – usually has a shelf life of a month or so. Otherwise, have it for another meal like breakfast! Don’t freeze.
Problem Solving Guide
bland – more maple syrup or more peanut butter.
too icy – these are meant to be in the more icy territory than ice cream. If you want something closer to ice cream increasing the maple syrup with help prevent ice crystals forming.
sticking to the mold – more hot water!
Prepare Ahead
Yes! Will keep in the freezer for months if not years.
