Simple Homemade Dreamsicles Recipe

Name: Simple Homemade Dreamsicles
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 490 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 cups orange sherbet, slightly softened; 2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened; 1 cup fresh orange juice; 2/3 cup simple syrup; 1/2 cup heavy cream

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 10 servings

2 cups orange sherbet, slightly softened
2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
1 cup fresh orange juice
2/3 cup simple syrup
1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

Step 1: Combine the orange sherbet and vanilla ice cream in a large ziplock plastic bag. Gently massage the bag to slightly mix the two colors together.

Step 2: Cut a 3/4-inch slit in the bottom corner of the ziplock bag.

Step 3: Squeeze about 3 tablespoons of the sherbet mixture into each of the 10 (3-oz) popsicle molds.

Step 4: In a liquid measuring cup, stir together the orange juice, simple syrup, and heavy cream until well combined.

Step 5: Carefully pour the juice mixture into the popsicle molds, filling any remaining air pockets of the sherbet mixture with the liquid.

Step 6: Insert the popsicle sticks into the molds and place them in the freezer. Freeze for at least 8 hours or until fully set.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	210
Total Fat	8g (10%)
Saturated Fat	5g (25%)
Cholesterol	26mg (9%)
Sodium	46mg (2%)
Total Carbohydrate	33g (12%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3%)
Total Sugars	29g
Protein	2g (4%)
Vitamin C	14mg (15%)
Calcium	69mg (5%)
Iron	0mg (1%)
Potassium	157mg (3%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Light, creamy, and refreshing, homemade dreamsicles are a nostalgic treat that transport you back to warm summer days. This simple recipe allows you to recreate this classic dessert at home with just a few ingredients. Whether you're craving a sweet snack or looking for a cool way to beat the heat, these dreamsicles are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History of Dreamsicles

The origins of the dreamsicle date back to the 1920s when Frank Epperson, an American inventor, accidentally created what would later be called the "popsicle." While the specific combination of orange sherbet and vanilla ice cream is hard to pinpoint, the concept of mixing fruit and cream dates back to early frozen treats. The dreamsicle version became popular in the mid-20th century and has since become a beloved frozen snack. Its sweet, creamy flavor and nostalgic appeal continue to make it a favorite among people of all ages.

Regional Variations

While dreamsicles are commonly found in the United States, different regions put their own spin on the classic dessert. In some places, you may find them made with other fruit flavors such as strawberry or mango, while others prefer using a mixture of citrus fruits. Some variations may include yogurt or different types of cream for a slightly tangier or richer taste. The overall concept, however, remains the same: a delicious blend of fruit and cream, frozen into a convenient handheld treat.

How Dreamsicles Differ from Similar Desserts

Dreamsicles stand out from other frozen treats like creamsicles and popsicles due to their unique texture and flavor profile. While popsicles are typically just frozen fruit juice or sugary syrups, dreamsicles combine the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream with the tangy sweetness of orange sherbet. This double-layered dessert offers both a smooth, creamy bite and a refreshing citrus zing, making it more indulgent than a simple fruit popsicle.

Where Dreamsicles Are Usually Served

Dreamsicles are often enjoyed as a nostalgic treat at summer picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. They are a common offering at outdoor events and are frequently seen at ice cream trucks or concession stands at sporting events. Due to their popularity with children and adults alike, theyre also a favorite choice at theme parks, amusement parks, and carnival stands, where people can grab a quick, refreshing snack between rides.

Interesting Facts About Dreamsicles

In the 1960s, the dreamsicle became a popular snack in schools, as it was an affordable and delicious way to cool down during hot weather.
The classic orange and white color of the dreamsicle is not only visually appealing but also helps it stand out from other frozen treats in the freezer aisle.
Dreamsicles were once marketed as a "healthier" alternative to ice cream, as they contained fruit and often had less fat than traditional ice cream bars.
Did you know? The term "Dreamsicle" was coined by the Popsicle Company, which helped solidify the dessert's place in American culture during the mid-20th century.

Simple Homemade Dreamsicles Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups orange sherbet, slightly softened
2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
1 cup fresh orange juice
2/3 cup simple syrup
1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

Combine sherbet and ice cream in a large ziplock plastic bag. Massage the bag to slightly mix the 2 colors. Make a 3/4-inch cut in the bottom corner of the bag. Squeeze about 3 tablespoons of sherbet mixture into each of 10 (3-oz) popsicle molds.
Stir together orange juice, simple syrup, and cream in a liquid measuring cup. Pour juice mixture into popsicle molds allowing liquid to fill in any remaining air pockets of the ice cream. Insert popsicle sticks, and freeze for at least 8 hours.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 210
Fat: 8g
Sugar: 29g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 2g

Whether you're reminiscing about childhood summers or simply seeking a refreshing treat, this homemade dreamsicle recipe brings a burst of nostalgia and flavor. Enjoy it as a quick snack or a fun dessert for family gatherings. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can recreate this classic favorite right at home.

FAQ about Simple Homemade Dreamsicles Recipe

These dreamsicles can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After that, the quality may start to degrade in terms of texture and flavor.

Yes, you can use store-bought orange juice. Just make sure it's 100% pure orange juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.

If you don't have popsicle molds, you can use small paper cups or silicone molds. Just insert sticks into the mixture once it's partially frozen to hold them in place.

Yes! You can substitute the vanilla ice cream with a dairy-free or vegan ice cream and use coconut cream or almond milk for the heavy cream. Make sure the orange sherbet you use is dairy-free as well.

To remove the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds or gently twist the mold. This will loosen the popsicles and make them easier to pull out.

Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of simple syrup. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that this might affect the texture.

Definitely! You can substitute the orange sherbet with other fruit-flavored sorbets or ice creams, like strawberry, raspberry, or mango. Keep in mind that the flavor and color of the popsicles will change depending on your choice of fruit.

Yes, these dreamsicles can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept in the freezer. Just make sure they are well covered to prevent freezer burn.

Yes, it’s best to slightly soften the ice cream and sherbet before combining them. This makes it easier to mix the two and helps the mixture to fill the molds evenly.

The popsicles are fully frozen when they are firm to the touch and no longer soft in the center. Typically, they need at least 8 hours in the freezer, but overnight freezing is ideal.