
Creamy sweet and swirled with shreds of coconut these coconut cream popsicles have become my warm weather fix. Whether you need a cool snack or a fun finish to a summer meal these are so quick to make and you will love the simple ingredients.
One hot July day I made these on a whim to cool off with my niece. Now she begs to come over every weekend to help mix and decorate them.
Ingredients
- Coconut milk: Gives that rich tropical flavor and creaminess. I recommend full fat and check labels for minimal ingredients
- Heavy cream: Makes the pops even silkier. If you skip dairy just use more coconut milk
- Maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness and blends perfectly with coconut. You can also use agave if that is your favorite
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and roundness. Homemade or pure vanilla always gives the best taste
- Sea salt: Heightens all the flavors and keeps the pops from being too sweet. Choose a flaky salt for best results
- Shredded coconut: Stirs in texture and more flavor. Go for unsweetened and fresh if you can find it for best texture
- Optional dark chocolate: Gives a crunchy coating. Use a good bar with at least 70 percent cocoa
- Coconut oil: Thins the chocolate for smooth dipping. Try to use virgin coconut oil for flavor
- Extra sea salt on the chocolate: Kick up the pop with a tiny contrast sprinkle
- Extra shredded coconut for topping: Really makes them look festive and adds toasty coconut flavor
Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- In a mixing bowl combine coconut milk heavy cream maple syrup and vanilla extract. Add a generous pinch of sea salt. Whisk everything together until completely smooth so the mixture is perfectly emulsified.
- Stir in Shredded Coconut:
- Take your shredded coconut and stir it into the base until it is evenly distributed. Make sure every bite will have some coconut strands for extra texture.
- Fill the Molds:
- Pour the mixture carefully into popsicle molds. Tap lightly to release air bubbles and make sure they are filled to the top for a uniform pop.
- Freeze Until Solid:
- Place the molds in the freezer for at least four hours or until totally solid. For best results freeze overnight.
- Prepare the Chocolate Shell:
- While the pops are freezing melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil. Do this over low heat in a small saucepan or microwave in short bursts while stirring. Stop heating as soon as the chocolate is glossy and smooth so it does not scorch.
- Coat the Pops:
- Remove the popsicles from molds and place them spaced out on a wax paper lined board. Work quickly with one pop at a time. Ladle or drizzle the melted chocolate over each pop holding it above the saucepan. Sprinkle with extra coconut or a pinch of sea salt before the chocolate sets.
- Refreeze to Set:
- As soon as coated return each pop to the freezer. Let the chocolate set hard before serving which only takes a few minutes.
- Store and Serve:
- Once fully set you can stash the pops in a freezer bag or airtight container. Let them sit for two or three minutes at room temperature before eating to get the perfect creamy bite.

Coconut has always been my favorite for desserts and eating these with a friend on a hot day is pure joy. When I made these for my family barbecue last summer they disappeared before I could even grab a second one.
Storage Tips
Keep your popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three weeks. Add a layer of wax paper between pops to prevent sticking if you stack them. If you notice frost or ice crystals just run the pop under warm water for a second and it will taste just as fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
For completely dairy free popsicles skip the heavy cream and use only coconut milk. You can use honey or agave instead of maple syrup but the flavor will shift slightly. If you want a nutty twist swap in toasted almonds for part of the shredded coconut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these popsicles straight from the freezer on a hot afternoon or as a light dessert after spicy food. For a party you can set out bowls of toppings like chopped nuts melted chocolate sprinkles and extra coconut for dipping.
Cultural and Historical Context
Coconut based ice treats are classic in tropical regions like Southeast Asia and the Caribbean where coconut palms thrive. The combination of coconut and chocolate is inspired by beloved candy bars but this treat is much lighter and fresher using whole ingredients.

Make these pops for your next get-together or just keep a stash in the freezer for anytime cravings. Nothing beats the cool rich taste on a summer day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these popsicles dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the heavy cream with additional coconut milk for a fully dairy-free version with the same creamy consistency.
- → What kind of coconut milk should I use?
Full-fat canned coconut milk works best for a rich, creamy texture, but you can use light coconut milk for a lighter finish.
- → Is the chocolate coating optional?
Absolutely! The pops are delicious on their own or with chocolate. If adding, use a dark chocolate bar or chips, and coconut oil for smooth melting.
- → Can I sweeten with something besides maple syrup?
Honey or agave both work well as alternatives, though they may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- → How long do the popsicles need to freeze?
Freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely set. For best results, freeze overnight before adding the chocolate shell.