Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars
Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars: The Ultimate Summer Treat!
Hey, you ever just crave something that screams summer? Like, when it’s hot and you feel all sticky and you just want to dive into a pool of coolness? Yeah, that’s how I feel about these Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars! 🍒🍋 Seriously, they’re like a refreshing splash of joy in a popsicle form.
Okay, let’s talk ingredients. You ready?
– 2 cups fresh cherries (the juicier, the better!)
– 1 cup lime juice (fresh-squeezed if you can! Trust me, it’s worth it)
– 1 cup coconut water (because hydration, am I right?)
– 1/2 cup honey or agave syrup (sweetness level: maximum)
– 1 cup coconut milk (creamy dreams)
– 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free, but feel free to skip if you’re not feeling it)
– 2 tbsp Vegan Gelatin (don’t freak out, I promise it works)
– 1/4 cup water (to bloom that gelatin)
– Zest of 1 lime (for that zesty kick)
I mean, you’re basically making a tropical vacation in your kitchen. Just picture it.
So, here’s why I make these constantly: Last summer, I was having a meltdown about the heat, and my friend, bless her heart, brought over a tray of these bad boys. We devoured them on my porch, laughing and just letting the summer vibes take over. They were gone in like 10 minutes, and I swear, it felt like we were kids again. Ever since, every time summer rolls around, I whip these up to relive that pure joy.
Okay, here’s the one trick that changes everything: let the vegan gelatin bloom! It sounds all fancy, but it’s literally just sitting a little bowl of gelatin and water together for about 5 minutes. It makes the bars hold together like a dream—seriously, don’t skip this part!
And now for the dreaded, “Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)” section:
1. Don’t rush the freezing process! I know it’s hard to wait, but they really need that 4-6 hours.
2. When mixing in the cherries, don’t over-blend them if you want that chunky goodness. A few pieces make it fun!
3. If you’re using a baking dish instead of molds, line it with parchment paper. Trust me, you’ll thank me when you’re trying to get these out.
How to keep them from disappearing (or, how to store them)? Well, once you’ve cut these babies up, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. But honestly? They’ll probably be gone in a few days if you’re anything like me.
If you liked this, you’ll probably like these too:
– Mango Coconut Popsicles (another tropical delight)
– Berry Basil Sorbet (so refreshing!)
– Classic Lemonade – you can never go wrong with that!
Okay, so, what’s your favorite summer treat? I’m always looking for new ideas! Let’s chat! 🍧
Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars
Delicious Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars recipe that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup lime juice
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1/2 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)
- 2 tablespoons Vegan Gelatin
- 1/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the Vegan Gelatin over 1/4 cup of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut water and honey (or agave syrup). Heat over medium heat until warm, then stir in the bloomed Vegan Gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the lime juice, coconut milk, and Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) until well combined.
- In a blender, puree the cherries until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some cherry halves to mix in later.
- In a silicone mold or a rectangular baking dish, pour half of the coconut mixture evenly. Add the pureed cherries on top and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. If using, add the reserved cherry halves.
- Pour the remaining coconut mixture on top and smooth out the surface.
- Sprinkle the lime zest over the top of the mixture.
- Cover the mold or dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until solid.
- Once frozen, remove the bars from the mold and cut them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Enjoy your refreshing Cherry Limeade Creamsicle Bars!
